Museum of the Game® & International Arcade Museum® Forums
OK, it seems like the "what one game would you keep" thread is going strong. I figure I will post a slightly different question. That is to ask, "if aliens came to earth and wanted to understand what arcade games are, what would you show them (and why)". My picks:
Donkey Kong - It explains what a platformer is, introduces them to Nintendo, and also explains to them the importance of "branding". It also has a very "arcade" cabinet that has enough artwork detail to get across the key elements of artwork.
Street Fighter II - It covers what a fighting game is, two player interaction, and also represents the best of 2D graphics and animation. If you show them the PCB, it also introduces them to Jamma and the concept of a common "architecture" in the CPS1 family of boards.
Galaga - It introduces a shooter, a space theme (particular relevant in this case), and is a natural progression from games like Space Invaders and Galaxian.
There are a ton of runners up but I will let others comment first.
Donkey Kong - It explains what a platformer is, introduces them to Nintendo, and also explains to them the importance of "branding". It also has a very "arcade" cabinet that has enough artwork detail to get across the key elements of artwork.
Street Fighter II - It covers what a fighting game is, two player interaction, and also represents the best of 2D graphics and animation. If you show them the PCB, it also introduces them to Jamma and the concept of a common "architecture" in the CPS1 family of boards.
Galaga - It introduces a shooter, a space theme (particular relevant in this case), and is a natural progression from games like Space Invaders and Galaxian.
There are a ton of runners up but I will let others comment first.