Welcome to the World of Gaming Icons!
The World Video Game Hall of Fame, nestled in The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, has just revealed its 2025 finalists. These are some of the most influential and beloved games ever made, spanning many decades and types of games. The hall of fame chooses games that are very famous, have had a big impact, have been around for a long time, and are played all over the world[1][5]. This year’s list is a great mix of old and new games.
Meet the 2025 Finalists: A Mix of Old and New
The 2025 finalists are a diverse group of games that show how video games have changed over time and how they have become a big part of our culture:
- Age of Empires: This strategy game series has been a favorite on computers since 1997[1].
- Angry Birds: This mobile game became a global hit after it was released in 2009, with billions of people playing it[1][5].
- Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare: This first-person shooter game changed the way we play online games when it came out in 2007[1][5].
- Defender: This arcade game from 1981 is famous for its challenging gameplay and how it influenced other games[1].
- Frogger: Another arcade hit from 1981, Frogger has become a cultural icon and has even been in popular TV shows like “Seinfeld”[1].
- GoldenEye 007: This first-person shooter game for the Nintendo 64 was a big deal when it came out in 1997, thanks to its split-screen multiplayer mode[1][5].
- Golden Tee Golf: This arcade golf game has been a favorite in bars and arcades since 1989[1].
- Harvest Moon: This farming simulation game offered a peaceful alternative to action games when it first came out in 1996[1].
- Mattel Football: This was the first big handheld electronic game, released in 1977, and it paved the way for portable gaming[1].
- NBA 2K: This sports game series has had a big influence on esports, especially with its professional leagues[1].
- Quake: This first-person shooter game changed the way we play 3D games and helped start esports in the late 1990s[1][5].
- Tamagotchi: This digital pet game bridged the gap between toys and video games when it was first released in 1996[1].
Your Vote Matters!
Fans can vote for their favorite games until March 13, and the top three games will be part of the selection committee’s ballot[5]. The winners will be announced on May 8, 2025, and will join other iconic games in the Hall of Fame[1][5].
Honoring Gaming History
The 2025 finalists represent a wide range of gaming history, from classic arcade games to popular mobile games. Each game has had a big impact on the gaming industry and has helped shape our shared gaming experience. As we wait for this year’s inductees to be announced, we can appreciate these games for the fun and memorable experiences they’ve given us.
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