If you’re anything like us and millions of others around the world, you probably sat spellbound in front of the TV as the fourth season of Netflix’s Stranger Things aired. This is hardly surprising, as the show introduced an engaging storyline with a cast of very likeable characters. More importantly, it made viewers hark back to simpler times.
In a sense, Stranger Things has played a significant role in nostalgia becoming an increasing trend in several industries, not least of which is the video game arcade. Let’s take a look.
Why Are We Nostalgic?
Nostalgia brings continuity which is intricately linked to our wellbeing. It also helps us build strong interpersonal connections. Some experts believe that nostalgic thoughts have the capacity to soothe our mood.
The Arcade Revival
One industry where a significant revival was experienced is arcades and retro gaming. People love the sound of coins being swallowed by game machines, the feel of arcade joysticks in their hands, and the musical sounds of the arcade.
Isolated mobile and console games are making way for arcade games that attract groups of people and create a sense of community. It avoids often toxic online communities and gaming and allows players to bond and form friendships.
Because of this, it’s expected that the arcade nostalgia will continue for some time to come and, in the process, revive some fan favorites of yesteryear:
- Super Mario Bros. While it’s known as one of the favorites on old Nintendo consoles, Super Mario Bros was first developed as an arcade game and has become one of the most popular video games of all time.
- Pac-Man. First released in 1980, Pac-Man has become a timeless cultural phenomenon that players enjoy just as much today as they did over 40 years ago. And with its simple premise, almost anyone can play it, no matter if they’re 8 or 80.
- Frogger. By 2005, Frogger had sold over 20 million copies since its launch in the 1980s. This game has been so successful that it spawned many sequels and has been featured across a range of media.
- Donkey Kong. Launched in 1981 by Nintendo in an attempt to gain footing in the North American market, Donkey Kong is one of the most successful video games of all time.
Nostalgia is Looking Forward, Not Back
Let’s ignore the previous schools of thought about nostalgia and see it as looking forward, not back. It shows us simpler, happier times, but then takes us back to the present and inspires us for what lies ahead in an uncertain future by giving us a template for what we want to achieve.
This is where At The Pier Arcade comes in. Our arcades can help create timeless memories with friends and family, and with plenty of retro classics to modern games, we tap into the power of play to bring people together.
To learn more about our locations, promotions, and more, check out our website for more details.