The world of gaming, despite being a relatively new entertainment medium, has rapidly gained immense popularity over the years, establishing itself as one of the foremost forms of leisure worldwide.
While contemporary titles often blend multiple gameplay mechanics, artistic approaches, and genre influences, earlier games typically focused on one or two fundamental concepts. Although this might seem simple, developers consistently sought innovative ways to differentiate their titles through distinctive ideas.
As we look back at gaming history, we can identify several pioneering titles that laid the groundwork for entire genres. These games not only defined their own categories but also inspired countless others, creating a rich tapestry of gameplay experiences that continue to evolve today.
From time to time, a game designer or development team uncovers a distinctive gameplay mechanic that not only defines their own creation but also gives rise to a new genre altogether. These innovative ideas can shape the future of gaming, impacting countless titles and even inspiring related genres and subgenres.
The creators of the games included in this list may not have realized it at the moment, but they were laying the groundwork for some of the fundamental aspects of the gaming industry.
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Games That Started New Genres
1. Donkey Kong – Platformer
While the action game Frogs, released in 1978, introduced the jumping mechanic that is now fundamental to platformers, it was Donkey Kong that truly established the platforming genre. This iconic game not only created a new style of gameplay but also introduced two of the most recognizable characters in gaming history: Mario and Donkey Kong.
Players take on the role of Mario, who must navigate ladders and dodge barrels to rescue Pauline from the clutches of Donkey Kong, who serves as the antagonist. Donkey Kong’s innovative gameplay elements set the stage for countless platformers that followed, influencing how characters interact with their environments.
The challenge of avoiding obstacles while ascending platforms became a defining characteristic of the genre. As players maneuver through the levels, Mario has undoubtedly become the most recognizable figure in the gaming world, largely due to the iconic Super Mario series.
This franchise has spawned a variety of spin-off games and party titles, including classics like Mario Kart, Paper Mario, and a host of sports-themed games. On the other hand, Donkey Kong, who has experienced a resurgence in popularity, reached new heights with Donkey Kong Country—a title that has seen numerous remakes and reimaginings over the years.
2. PUBG: Battlegrounds – Battle Royale
The battle royale genre has gained immense popularity in recent years. These expansive multiplayer experiences involve participants vying to be the final player remaining in a match.
Over the past ten years, battle royales have evolved in various ways, showcasing a range of styles from shooter games like Fortnite to unique platformers such as Fall Guys, and even incorporating puzzle elements seen in titles like Tetris 99.
Initially, battle royale games emerged as modifications for titles such as Minecraft, drawing influence from movies like Battle Royale and The Hunger Games.
Yet, it was PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) that truly pioneered the battle royale genre, propelling it into widespread recognition and success in today’s gaming landscape.
3. Metroid & Castlevania – Metroidvania
It’s no surprise that the iconic genre known as Metroidvania drew its inspiration from two classic titles: Metroid and Castlevania. Both of these influential games were launched in 1986, merely a month apart, and together, they established the groundwork for this genre.
Metroidvania is characterized by expansive, interconnected maps that players navigate, discovering previously unreachable regions as they acquire new skills, such as double jumping or swimming underwater.
These games not only defined a genre but also set the standard for gameplay mechanics that emphasize exploration and progression. As players delve deeper into these intricate worlds, they encounter various obstacles that require strategic
The Metroidvania genre, which is primarily recognized for its 2D side-scrolling gameplay, has also seen the emergence of 3D variants over time. Notable examples include titles like Batman: Arkham Asylum and the Metroid Prime series.
For fans interested in exploring contemporary Metroidvanias, there are plenty of options available. Recent hits such as Ori and the Will of the Wisps and Guacamelee! 2 have received widespread acclaim, showcasing the ongoing popularity and creativity within the genre.
4. Demon’s Souls – Souls-Like
The Souls-Like genre is one of the most recent additions to the gaming landscape. As indicated by its name, this genre traces its roots back to the Souls series, which includes titles like Demon’s Souls and the Dark Souls trilogy, all crafted by the talented developers at FromSoftware.
This distinct style can also be found in other notable games from the studio, such as Bloodborne and Elden Ring, with Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice representing a slightly different approach.
Characterized by its intricate environmental storytelling, challenging gameplay, interconnected worlds, and a strong focus on boss encounters, the Souls-Like genre has inspired numerous game developers.
Titles like Salt and Sanctuary and Nioh have successfully emulated the essence of the Souls games, demonstrating the genre’s influence. The defining elements of the Souls-Like genre, including the level of difficulty and the deep lore conveyed through the environment, have set a high benchmark for action RPGs.
5. Rogue – Roguelike
Rogue made its debut in 1980 and became available on multiple platforms, including the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and various personal computer systems.
In this game, players must navigate through levels filled with enemies, aiming to reach the dungeon’s lowest point to obtain the Amulet of Yendor before making their way back to the surface.
It introduced features like procedurally generated levels, permadeath, and a variety of useful items to gather, which have since become defining characteristics of the roguelike genre.
Today, the roguelike genre is flourishing, with titles such as Hades, Dead Cells, and the newly launched Rogue Legacy 2 enjoying both commercial success and critical acclaim, further establishing the genre within the mainstream gaming landscape.
Rogue’s influence can be seen in many modern games that borrow its concepts. The unique combination of random level generation and permanent character death creates an engaging challenge that keeps players coming back for more.
6. Wolfenstein 3D – First-Person Shooters
While the groundbreaking title DOOM from id Software in 1993 is widely recognized for bringing first-person shooters into the limelight, it was actually Wolfenstein 3D, another creation by id Software, that laid the foundation for this genre.
Initially intended as a 3D adaptation of the stealth game Castle Wolfenstein, the development team opted to create a more dynamic experience filled with rapid action and intense violence, setting it apart from the typical PC games of that era.
Wolfenstein 3D introduced players to a new style of gameplay that emphasized fast-paced movement and immersive environments, which would become a hallmark of first-person shooters.
The launch of Wolfenstein 3D in 1992 marked a pivotal moment in the gaming world, giving rise to the first-person shooter genre that has since exploded in popularity. This genre has become one of the most well-known and lucrative in the industry.
The legacy of the Wolfenstein and DOOM franchises continues to thrive, while other major titles such as Call of Duty, Battlefield, and Halo have generated astonishing revenue in the gaming market.
7. Space Invaders
Shoot-em-ups represent a distinctive subgenre within shooting games, characterized by their expansive gameplay. Typically, players navigate a craft through various stages, shooting at waves of enemies or formidable bosses.
This genre is a precursor to the more intense ‘bullet hell’ games. The roots of this genre can be traced back to the legendary Space Invaders, which debuted in 1975. In this classic, players controlled a small spacecraft tasked with shooting down aliens that gradually descended from the top of the screen.
Over time, this genre led to the development of influential titles like Gradius and Ikaruga, although it has become somewhat specialized in today’s gaming landscape. As the shoot-em-up genre evolved, it influenced many aspects of gaming, giving rise to variations that expanded upon its core mechanics.
The gameplay typically emphasizes fast reflexes, strategic movement, and a barrage of projectiles that players must navigate through.
8. Monster Hunter – Hunting
Although the “action game” genre was thriving by 2004, Capcom’s Monster Hunter distinguished itself with its emphasis on prolonged battles against formidable boss-like foes. This unique approach led to the creation of the hunting subgenre, which subsequently inspired other games such as Dauntless, God Eater, and the recent release, Wild Hearts.
In the years that followed, the influence of Monster Hunter became evident as developers embraced its formula, crafting their own interpretations within this newly established genre. Players began to appreciate the strategic depth and cooperative gameplay that these hunting games offered, leading to a surge in popularity.
While this subgenre enjoys a certain level of popularity, it remains quite niche, with only a limited selection of games available. Despite the emergence of several well-respected titles, Monster Hunter continues to reign supreme as the benchmark for the genre, serving as the primary point of reference for all other competitors.
9. Harvest Moon – Farming Simulators
Although earlier simulation games included farming components, none were truly recognized as “Farming Simulators.” The title of the first genuine game in this genre goes to 1996’s groundbreaking farming RPG, Harvest Moon.
At the time, it was celebrated for its innovative approach, focusing heavily on farm management players engaged in activities like crop harvesting, animal care, and overall upkeep of their land. Additionally, the game introduced a complex relationship mechanic, enabling players to build friendships and even marry characters from the nearby town.
Since its launch, Harvest Moon has paved the way for numerous titles, influencing games such as Stardew Valley and the more recent Harvestella from Square Enix. Harvest Moon’s unique gameplay and charm established a foundation for future farming simulation games, setting a benchmark for what players could expect from the genre.
Its blend of farming activities and social interactions created an engaging experience that resonated with many. This formula has been emulated and expanded upon in various ways, leading to the creation of a diverse range of games that have their roots in the concepts introduced by Harvest Moon.
10. Dear Esther
Games that started genres, particularly in the realm of first-person exploration and puzzle-solving, have been around since the early 1990s, with Myst from 1993 being a notable example. However, many video game historians point to Dear Esther, released in 2008, as the pioneer of the “walking simulator” genre.
This game diverged from traditional gameplay by emphasizing narrative development through exploration and observation, rather than pursuing a specific objective, allowing players to immerse themselves in its diverse environments.
The poignant and emotional narrative of Dear Esther unfolds in a manner unique to video games, utilizing an interactive format that minimalist gameplay allows. This artistic and understated design philosophy has influenced a diverse array of titles, including Journey and What Remains of Edith Finch, among others.
The game invites players to explore its haunting landscapes and unravel its story at their own pace, creating a deeply personal experience. Its focus on atmosphere and storytelling over traditional mechanics set a precedent for
11. Pokemon
It’s difficult to dispute the monumental influence of Pokémon. Frequently regarded as the most successful franchise in any entertainment sector, the Pokémon phenomenon has branched out into anime and trading cards, but it all began with the classic RPGs, Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue.
Launched on the Game Boy in 1996, these pioneering games laid the groundwork for the monster-collection genre, allowing players to assemble a team of captured creatures to fight and advance as a master collector. The legacy of the Pokémon series has paved the way for titles like Temtem, Nexomon: Extinction, and even Ni No Kuni.
The original Pokémon games not only captivated players but also set new standards for role-playing games. By merging exploration, strategic battles, and creature collection, they created a unique gameplay experience that resonated deeply with fans.
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source: Gamerode