Today in Gaming History: October 30 October 30 is a significant date for many video game fans, as it marks the anniversary of several influential and memorable titles. From classic arcade games to modern masterpieces, this day has seen the release of some of the most beloved games in the industry. Here are some of the highlights of today in gaming history:
Lode Runner (1983) Lode Runner is a platformer game that was released for the NEC PC98 computer in Japan on October 30, 19831. The game was developed by Douglas E. Smith, who created it as a student project at the University of Washington. Lode Runner is considered one of the first games to feature a level editor, allowing players to create their own custom stages. The game was also one of the first to use the concept of enemies that can follow the player’s movements and dig through the terrain. Lode Runner was a huge success, spawning numerous sequels, spin-offs, and ports to various platforms.
Landstalker (1992) Landstalker is an action-adventure game that was released for the Sega Genesis in Japan on October 30, 19921. The game was developed by Climax Entertainment, who also worked on other Sega titles such as Shining Force and Phantasy Star. Landstalker follows the adventures of Nigel, a treasure hunter who is hired by a fairy named Friday to find the legendary treasure of King Nole. The game features an isometric perspective, puzzle-solving, platforming, and combat elements. Landstalker was praised for its graphics, music, and gameplay, and is regarded as one of the best games on the Genesis.
Shin Megami Tensei (1992) Shin Megami Tensei is a role-playing game that was released for the Super Nintendo in Japan on October 30, 19921. The game was developed by Atlus, who would later become famous for their Persona series. Shin Megami Tensei is the first game in the mainline series of the Megami Tensei franchise, which originated as a novel adaptation. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, where the player can recruit and fuse demons to fight alongside them. The game also features a morality system that affects the story and the ending. Shin Megami Tensei was a groundbreaking game that influenced many other RPGs, such as Final Fantasy VII and Pokemon.
Hexen: Beyond Heretic (1995) Hexen: Beyond Heretic is a first-person shooter that was released for the PC on October 30, 19951. The game was developed by Raven Software, who also made Heretic and Doom. Hexen is the sequel to Heretic, and is part of the Serpent Riders trilogy. The game takes place in a dark fantasy world, where the player can choose from three classes: Fighter, Cleric, or Mage. Each class has different weapons, abilities, and stats. Hexen also features nonlinear levels, puzzles, and hub worlds that connect multiple areas. Hexen was well-received for its atmosphere, gameplay, and multiplayer mode.
Jet Set Radio (2000) Jet Set Radio is an action game that was released for the Sega Dreamcast on October 30, 20001. The game was developed by Smilebit, a division of Sega that also made Panzer Dragoon Orta and GunValkyrie. Jet Set Radio is set in a futuristic Tokyo, where the player controls a member of a gang of graffiti artists called the GGs. The game involves skating around the city, spraying graffiti on walls and objects, and avoiding the police and rival gangs. Jet Set Radio is notable for its cel-shaded graphics, funky soundtrack, and unique style. The game was critically acclaimed and has a cult following among fans.
The Witcher (2007) The Witcher is an action role-playing game that was released for the PC on October 30, 20071. The game was developed by CD Projekt Red, who would later create The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. The Witcher is based on the novels by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, and follows the story of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a witcher. The game features a complex combat system that combines swordplay, magic, and alchemy. The game also features a branching storyline that changes depending on the player’s choices and actions. The Witcher was praised for its mature themes, rich world-building, and engaging gameplay.
Jerry Wanker and the Quest to get Laid (2023) Jerry Wanker and the Quest to get Laid is a comedy adventure game that was released for Linux, Macintosh, and PC on October 30, 20232. The game was developed by Naughty Dog, who also made the Uncharted and The Last of Us series. Jerry Wanker and the Quest to get Laid is a parody of the Harry Potter franchise, and follows the exploits of Jerry Wanker, a horny wizard who attends the Hogfarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The game involves exploring the school, interacting with various characters, and trying to get laid. The game features hilarious dialogue, absurd situations, and adult humor. Jerry Wanker and the Quest to get Laid was a surprise hit that received rave reviews from critics and fans alike.
These are just some of the games that were released on October 30 throughout gaming history. Whether you are a fan of arcade classics, RPGs, shooters, or comedy games, there is something for everyone on this date. What are your favorite games that were released on October 30? Let us know in the discord!