National Video Games Day: A Celebration of Gaming Culture
National Video Games Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the impact of video games on our lives, from their humble beginnings to their current status as a cultural phenomenon. This day is a tribute to the creativity, innovation, and joy that video games bring to people of all ages.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 12
- Tagged as: Pop culture, gaming, entertainment
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalVideoGamesDay
- When was it founded?: 1991
- Who founded it?: Frank Cifaldi and first documented in Chase’s Calendar of Events
History of National Video Games Day
The origins of National Video Games Day trace back to 1991 when it was first included in Chase’s Calendar of Events. Initially celebrated on July 8, the date was later shifted to September 12 in 1997. This day celebrates not only the evolution of video games but also their influence on culture, technology, and entertainment. From early arcade classics like Pong to modern masterpieces such as Minecraft, video games have come a long way.
Timeline
- 1958: Physicist William Higinbotham creates Tennis for Two, the first video game.
- 1972: The Magnavox Odyssey, the first home gaming console, is released.
- 1980s: Iconic games like Pac-Man and Super Mario Bros. dominate arcades and home consoles.
- 1991: National Video Games Day is first recorded in Chase’s Calendar.
- 2010s: Esports rise in popularity, turning gaming into a professional sport.
- 2020s: Virtual reality (VR) and mobile gaming redefine interactive entertainment.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | September 12 | Thursday |
| 2025 | September 12 | Friday |
| 2026 | September 12 | Saturday |
| 2027 | September 12 | Sunday |
| 2028 | September 12 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | September 12 | Wednesday |
Observed
This day is observed by gamers worldwide through various activities such as playing favorite games, hosting gaming marathons, attending conventions, or revisiting nostalgic classics. It’s also an opportunity for retailers to offer discounts on games and consoles.
Fun Facts About Video Games
- The best-selling video game of all time is Minecraft.
- Tetris was the first video game played in space by Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr A. Serebrov in 1993.
- Nintendo originally started as a playing card company in 1889 before venturing into gaming.
Quiz
- What was the first video game ever created?
- Which game introduced Mario?
- What is the best-selling video game franchise?
(Answers: 1. Tennis for Two, 2. Donkey Kong, 3. Super Mario)
FAQs
- Is National Video Games Day the same as Video Game Day?
No, Video Game Day is celebrated on July 8, while National Video Games Day falls on September 12. - Why celebrate this day?
It highlights the cultural significance of video games and their contributions to entertainment and technology.
Related
- International Esports Day
- Retro Gaming Appreciation Week
- National Technology Day