In 1986 the landscape for video games was very different, but despite technical constraints, innovation persisted. A lot of big-name video game franchises got their starts in 1986 and are celebrating 35th Anniversaries this year. From The Legend of Zelda and Dragon Quest, to Metroid and Castlevania, here's every series turning 35 in 2021.
This year marks some important milestone anniversaries for a number of popular franchises, but some series have been around longer than others. In fact, 1986 might be the most important year in gaming's history. SEGA introduced several series to compete with Mario, such as Alex Kidd and Wonder Boy, and despite subsequent entries neither franchise proved to be as successful as Nintendo's mustachioed mascot - but both helped hold the door open for Sonic the Hedgehog's arrival in 1991.
A lot of games in 1986 were still played in arcades, but home consoles were becoming incredibly popular. A few series managed to stand out from the other releases that year. And not only did they stand out - they're still hugely successful today, and helped define the genres they're a part of.
35th Anniversary In 2021 - Metroid
Nintendo unveiled several important properties in 1986. With its side-scrolling action and open-ended world, Metroid introduced players to Samus Aran. It was extremely successful, and helped co-start its own subgenre: Metroidvanias. Although it's been a while since a new Metroid game released, one is definitely in development. The 35th Anniversary of the series in 2021 might be a great time to finally unveil the long-awaited Metroid Prime 4.
35th Anniversary In 2021 - Castlevania
Coincidentally, 1986 was also the year the other half of the Metroidvania subgenre got its start. Konami's Castlevania released in September of that year, just a little over a month after Metroid arrived. Since then, Castlevania has spawned over a dozen sequels and spin-offs. It's also inspired a successful animated show on Netflix, which perhaps speaks to the timelessness of the series.
35th Anniversary In 2021 - Kid Icarus
Just before 1986 came to an end, Kid Icarus released in December. While it hasn't been as popular as Nintendo properties like The Legend of Zelda or Metroid, Kid Icarus has maintained a loyal following over the years. Despite the series being at a standstill for now, protagonist Pit continues to show up in other series like Super Smash Bros. Perhaps its lasting legacy is with gaming's endearing love for Greek mythology, helping to inspire games like Immortals: Fenyx Rising.
35th Anniversary In 2021 - The Legend of Zelda
1986 also marked Nintendo's introduction of another long-running and incredibly popular franchise: The Legend of Zelda. From its iconic opening line, "It's dangerous to go alone! Take this." to the final fight with a pig demon named Ganon, The Legend of Zelda is one of the most memorable video games of all time.
Since 1986, the Zelda series has undergone stylistic changes and even spawned successful spin-offs like Hyrule Warriors. Currently, fans are eagerly waiting on Breath of the Wild 2, and characters Link and Zelda have become gaming icons. The Legend of Zelda is one of the few series that has transcended gaming and has become a staple of pop culture. Even people who don't play video games can probably identify Link or recognize the Master Sword.
35th Anniversary In 2021 - Dragon Quest
While it hasn't been as popular outside of Japan, where it's a cultural phenomenon, Dragon Quest has remained an endearing part of gaming history. Blue slimes have become ubiquitous mascots, and many of its games rank on numerous "Best Of" lists. Dragon Quest was the blueprint for countless other RPGs that followed it, and it helped inspire other series like Final Fantasy and Persona. In its thirty-five years of existence, Dragon Quest has released eleven mainline entries, countless spin-offs, anime, manga, and even a movie to become one of the highest-grossing video game franchises of all time.
While many fans are looking ahead to the future in 2021, it's important to glance back at gaming's past. 1986 was an instrumental year for the industry, with series like Castlevania, Dragon Quest, Metroid, and The Legend of Zelda all celebrating 35th anniversaries this year.