Relive the Golden Age: Iconic Computer Games From the 1980s You Can Still Play Today

Video Games'80sNostalgia
Computer games of the 80s - Screenshot from The Oregon Trail that says one of the passengers has cholera

Published:

Reading time: 3 min.

The 1980s were a groundbreaking era for computer games, thanks to the rise of home computers like the Commodore 64, Apple II, and IBM PCs. Unlike arcade gaming, which focused on quick play sessions, computer games brought complex stories, intricate puzzles, and innovative gameplay to personal computers. This article dives into some of the most popular and beloved old computer games from the 1980s, including a few hidden gems.

Why the 1980s Were a Golden Age for Computer Gaming

The introduction of personal computers revolutionized gaming. Platforms like the Commodore 64, Apple II, and TI-99/4A enabled game designers to craft immersive experiences. Players could enjoy RPGs, strategy games, and adventure titles at home, many of which set the standard for the top video games of all time. Meanwhile, arcade gaming flourished, influencing some of these early computer classics.

The Oregon Trail

Computer games from the 1980s - The Oregon Trail

Leisure Suit Larry

Computer games from the 1980s - A still from Leisure Suit Larry where Larry is walking into Lefty's

Zork

The opening moments of the game Zork I
  • Release Year: 1980
  • Developer/Publisher: Infocom
  • Platforms: Apple II, Commodore 64, DOS
  • Why It’s Iconic: This text-based adventure immersed players in a fantasy world filled with puzzles and treasures.
  • Where to Play: PlayClassic.games: Zork I
  • Watch Gameplay: YouTube: Zork Gameplay

Ultima IV: Quest of the Avatar

Opening screen for the 1985 computer game, Ultima IV: Quest of the Avatar
  • Release Year: 1985
  • Developer/Publisher: Origin Systems
  • Platforms: Apple II, Commodore 64, DOS
  • Why It’s Iconic: This RPG introduced moral choices and emphasized virtues, setting a new standard for the genre.
  • Where to Play: BestDosGames.com: Ultima IV
  • Watch Gameplay: YouTube: Ultima IV Gameplay

Maniac Mansion

Still of the opening screen for 1987s Maniac Mansion

Archon

Still of gameplay from the 1983 computer game, Archon
  • Release Year: 1983
  • Developer/Publisher: Free Fall Associates / Electronic Arts
  • Platforms: Commodore 64, Atari 8-bit
  • Why It’s Iconic: A unique mix of chess and real-time combat, pitting mythical creatures against each other.
  • Where to Play: Archive.org: Archon
  • Watch Gameplay: YouTube: Archon Gameplay

Hunt the Wumpus

Still from the beginning of Hunt the Wumpus computer game

Tunnels of Doom

Opening screen for the 1982 computer game Tunnels of Doom
  • Release Year: 1982
  • Developer/Publisher: Texas Instruments
  • Platforms: TI-99/4A
  • Why It’s Iconic: This RPG featured dungeon crawling and turn-based combat.
  • Where to Play: Available on TI-99 emulators.
  • Watch Gameplay: YouTube: Tunnels of Doom Gameplay

Castle Wolfenstein

Still of gameplay from the 1981 computer game Castle Wolfenstein

Odell Lake

Opening screen for Odell Lake computer game from 1986
  • Release Year: 1986
  • Developer/Publisher: MECC
  • Platforms: Apple II, Commodore 64
  • Why It’s Iconic: Players took the role of a fish, making survival decisions in a lake environment.
  • Where to Play: Archive.org: Odell Lake
  • Watch Gameplay: YouTube: Odell Lake Gameplay

Number Munchers

Opening screen to the 1986 computer game, Number Munchers

Conclusion

These computer games from the 1980s were more than just entertainment; they were a window into the creativity and innovation of early game designers. Titles like Zork, Leisure Suit Larry, and Number Munchers pushed the boundaries of what gaming could be, offering immersive adventures, educational experiences, and strategic challenges.

This era of home computer gaming not only captured the imagination of players but also laid the groundwork for the gaming industry as we know it. The technical advancements and storytelling breakthroughs of the 80s helped pave the way for future consoles like the NES, which built on the foundation these early games created. Whether revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, they remain a nostalgic reminder of the golden age of computer gaming.

Colby Droscher
Colby Droscher
Colby has been in digital publishing for 15+ years. In a past life he was the Editor in Chief of Literally Media Entertainment brands (cracked.com, ebaumsworld.com, cheezburger.com).

Related articles

© 2024 Bring Back Dialup