The first video games appeared in the 1960s, and since then, they have become a part of the global popular culture. They are still becoming better and better with every year, being introduced in various industries, even in the new online casinos. But it is commonly believed that the 1980s culture played a significant role in the rising popularity and development of video games, including those designed for the gambling industry. At this point, you are probably wondering, how are the 1980s and the online gaming community connected?

It all started with the arcade games in the 80s, which expanded into other types of media. Back in the day, we could spot video game characters and themes in TV shows, cartoons, and music. With time, this trend has evolved into high-quality games available on all devices today.

With old movies, music, and fashion trends coming back to life, it’s like we’re living in the ’80s all over again. To better explain, let’s take a short trip down memory lane and see how the 80s influenced the gaming industry, along with the life we are living today.

Arcade Games in the 1980s

Back in the 1980s, amusement arcades were the ultimate level of entertainment. We were able to find arcade games all over public places, including restaurants and bars. Remember the pinball machines, arcade video, or redemption games?

The most notable releases from this period were the 1978’s Space Invaders and 1979’s vector graphics-based Asteroids. Their developers proved that it’s possible to cut costs with the new technology. So, the market followed, creating the most iconic games of the time, including Defender, Pac-Man, Centipede, and Galaga.

Now let’s quantify these trends. In 1980, the arcade video game industry’s revenue generated $2.8 billion in the US only. This number further increased in 1981, leading to an incredible annual revenue worth over $5 billion. The pinball industry also reached its peak in 1979, with sales of 200,000 machines, leading to revenues of $2.3 billion.

No doubt, the industry has achieved remarkable growth and technological development, along with a shift in customer demands. That’s why we recognize the period from the late 1970s until about 1983 as the golden age of arcade video games.

Real-Life Casinos in the 1980s

The 80s were also the decade where mega-resort owners opened their establishments in Las Vegas. People started seeing Vegas as the top-rated location for entertainment and vacation. And we are not referring exclusively to dedicated gamblers but also casual players looking for a day of fun.

Celebrities also hopped on this trend. Brat Pack, Judd Nelson, and Emilio Estevez all loved the casino destinations and popular gambling activities.

The Video Games Trend

It all started with Famicom, a Japanese family computer that revolutionized the gaming community. You probably recognize it as the Nintendo Entertainment System featuring video game consoles. Initially, Nintendo was released in Japan in 1986, but it quickly expanded to the US market.

We can also trace back the release of many fantastic gambling games, such as Datamost’s ‘Casino’ video game, back to the 1980s. It was a combination of five iconic games, including blackjack, baccarat, video poker, keno, and roulette.

The main focus of video game developers around the 80s was to create addictive gameplay. That explains the popularity of Tetris, SimCity, Super Mario Bros, and Prince of Persia.

Due to all facts mentioned above, we can say that the 1980s provided the base for modern-day gaming entertainment. Now, let’s see how the gaming industry influenced other types of media at the time and today.

The 80s Pop Culture

As the world suddenly became aware of gambling, the film and TV industry also incorporated gambling in their releases. What’s more, as all kids and adults spent time on consoles playing games in the 80s, they identified with the characters and products associated with the games.

We could find cartoons based on the Pac-Man and Super Mario Bros video games and nongame merchandise, such as coffee cups with the video game’s logos and characters. In turn, this public recognition made the characters into cultural icons still prevailing today.

The Super Mario Bros Super Show and The Legend of Zelda, TV shows promoting the Nintendo games, emerged in the late 1980s. Pokémon was also turned into television series, a card game, several movies, and a musical. In 2016, with the release of Pokémon Go, people worldwide “went crazy” for the characters.

We could also spot video games influencing how movies were made. Take, for instance, the 1995’ live-action movie Mortal Kombat or Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. Both based on video games performed remarkably well at the box office.

Finally, music always played a big part in arcade games. In the beginning, it was simple computer beeps, which then evolved into pre-recorded audio on new games. Composer Nobuo Uematsu developed the first video game music with film score quality, consisting of full orchestral and vocal tracks, in the Final Fantasy series. This innovation then proved useful for well-known musicians working on popular video games.

The Transition Period

As the 80s came to an end, the Internet has slowly started to change how people lived at the time. It was changing their day-to-day activities, along with the way they think. So, it was the perfect time for the gaming industry to switch its direction.

The shift in technology allowed players to enjoy the casino experience from the comfort of their homes. There was no need to travel to Vegas or Atlantic City. Not only did this innovation cut travel expenses, but it also provided people with lots of other benefits. It was instantly easier to find fellow gamblers. The choice of games, casinos, and bonuses also increased, and on top of it all, people could spot a change in legalization and public acceptance.

The Internet Era

Today, online gambling is a multi-billion industry. We can witness the opening of a new online casino almost every day. People worldwide can enjoy many games, including roulette, poker, and slots, with a single click. Thus, the industry giants have eliminated the need for a brick-and-mortar experience. Or at least to a certain degree.

Final Thought

With time, generations might completely forget about the thrill of the 1980s arcade games or the Vegas casino experience. Still, that’s precisely where it all started.

The 80s provided a solid basis for developing today’s gambling experience, so we must give this decade the appreciation it deserves. We can still recognize the pop culture trends dating to the 1980s. People around the globe recognize Mario Kart and Pokemon as gaming icons with influence over all types of media even after decades of their introduction.

Due to all this, gaming developers still incorporate music, themes, and characters from the 80s into new slots and other casino games. And people still seem to like it!