Best moment in gaming history
What is the best moment in gaming history? It’s a subjective question, but it’s one we’re happy to try and answer. With the benefit of time, we can look back at the moments that shaped the industry and defined the medium.
So what is the best moment in gaming history? For us, it’s the release of Halo 3. Halo 3 was the culmination of a beloved franchise, with an incredible multiplayer experience that set the bar for shooters to come. The story of Master Chief and Cortana’s journey was brought to a close, and we were treated to one of the best games of all time.
There are so many other incredible moments too, from Pokemon Go bringing people together to create a sense of community, to some joking that it actually brought about world peace – except for all the drivers walking down the middle of the road. The social aspect of Pokemon Go, where people would meet and help each other, was beautiful to behold.
From Skyrim’s massive cultural impact, to No Man’s Sky redeeming itself with free updates and patches that made it into one of the best space games, we’ve picked out some of the best moments in gaming history to take you on a trip down memory lane.
Here are some of the best moments in gaming history:
You might have had your own best gaming moments over the decades, and we’d love to hear about them. From Gran Turismo to Dragon Warrior Monsters 2, there are countless games that have brought joy and nostalgia to players. Here are some other best moments that brought about a sense of community, shock, or heartbreak.
PlayStation Experience
If you grew up in the ’90s or early ’00s, getting a PSX or a N64 on release day was a special moment. There was a sense of anticipation for what was in those boxes, especially if you were lucky enough to get a console on launch day with the Super Mario 64 cartridge inside.
The emotional impact of Aerith’s death in Final Fantasy VII comes to mind for many, as does the golden years of Warcraft 3 and the release of World of Warcraft. We even have a list of the best games you can play right now if you’re looking for something to scratch that nostalgia itch.
Here are some of the best moments in gaming history:
Aerith’s death in Final Fantasy VII
It’s hard to believe now, but there was a time when JRPGs were a genre people looked down on. Final Fantasy VII changed that, and Aerith’s death at the hands of Sephiroth was a part of that.
In the middle of a battle, Aerith is cut down and dies in Cloud’s arms. It was the first time JRPGs made people feel something and the emotional impact was significant. The sense of loss and sadness felt by players was palpable. Aerith’s death was so powerful that fans petitioned for a remake of the game.
Super Metroid speedrunning achievements
When Arthur Morgan successfully completed the Rainbow Road Ultra Shortcut in real-time, there was a sense of awe around the world. We’re not going to lie, we couldn’t complete Super Metroid as a kid. The feat is even more impressive when you consider that it takes place in a game that’s over 25 years old.
Burning Crusade expansion
The Burning Crusade expansion brought WoW players to the new world of Kalimdor, and the experience was incredible. Standing on the dock of the new starting zone of Menethil Harbor and entering the dark portal was mind-blowing. The expansion introduced new questlines, races, mounts, and zones, and an overhaul of the talent system.
Pokemon Pikachu beats Mario and Link
The Super Smash Bros series is known for its surprises, and in Super Smash Bros Melee there was one that shocked a lot of people. When you picked up a Poké Ball in the multiplayer game, a random Pokémon would appear to help you fight, but there was one surprise that wasn’t welcome – Pikachu, of all Pokémon, was your opponent.
