Why Do 8-Bit Games Still Appeal To So Many Players?

Were you aware that the history of 8-bit games can be traced all of the way back to 1983 with the release of the Famicom system? This was the very same video game platform that would soon be re-branded as the Nintendo Operating System (NES). Of course, things began to pick up pace from here. It did not take long for other developers to appreciate the amazing marketing potential of such devices. Brands such as SEGA and even Atari began to release a kaleidoscope of titles.

We are now living within an era that is at least partially defined by the massive array of games to choose from. Offering HD graphics, incredible detail and even the presence of artificial intelligence (AI), it seems as if the industry itself has taken on a life of its own. So, why are so many of us still fascinated with the allure of traditional 8-bit games? Let's take a look at some theories behind this recent trend.

A Break from the Norm

Many will argue that 8-bit games have enjoyed a recent comeback due to their straightforward design. This is actually somewhat surprising when we consider that online portals such as Comeon.com offer possibilities that would have been nearly impossible to imagine only a handful of years ago. We are not only referring to casino games in this sense. From first-person shooters to MMORPGS and everything in between, the future is here.

Still, some users may wish to take a break from this frenetic world in order to become immersed within a simpler and more straightforward digital environment. Let's also remember that 8-bit games will require much less memory than their contemporary counterparts; an important benefit for those with older operating systems.

A Sense of Nostalgia

There is yet another very relevant reason why older games seem to be once again enjoying the limelight. This involves the nostalgic feelings that they are said to evoke in the players themselves. After all, well-known franchises such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Super Mario Bros. are likely to conjure up memories of much simpler times. In some ways, they even represent a means for us to temporarily revisit our childhood. This is the very same reason why 1980s music and modern variations such as the "synthwave" movement have likewise become popular.

The Gameplay Itself

Finally, 8-bit games tend to be easier to play and master. The controls are straightforward and little is left to the imagination in terms of the ultimate goal. Side-scrolling platforms such as Contra are a perfect example of how this simplicity can actually lead to a great deal of fun.

We can now see that 8-bit games are here to stay in one form or another. Although they cannot be technically compared to modern platforms, the fact of the matter is that these games are entertaining and extremely innovative. Now, if only the developers would create a time machine so that we could be able to travel back to the "golden era" of gaming!