Explore the Legendary Inductees: 'GoldenEye 007', 'Tamagotchi', and More Earn Eternal Fame

In an electrifying announcement, the Video Game Hall of Fame has officially welcomed four legendary titles that have left an indelible mark on the landscape of gaming. This esteemed accolade, celebrated annually by The Strong’s World Video Game Hall of Fame, has this year seen Defender, GoldenEye 007, Quake, and Tamagotchi rise above the competition to secure their places among the industry’s leading legends.

The Selection Process: Only the Best Make the Cut

Each year, games must demonstrate icon status, longevity, geographical reach, and influence to be nominated. In 2025, the rigorous selection process singled out these four titans for their transformative impact. By achieving excellence in these categories, they have triumphed over formidable contenders like Age of Empires and Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare.

Defender: A Challenge That Changed Gaming

Released in 1981, Defender shook up the gaming genre. Its complex controls and unpredictable enemies set it apart as a game that demanded skill. Breaking away from conventional wisdom of easy-to-learn games, Defender’s difficulty ensured it stayed on every arcade enthusiasts’ radar, proving that a challenging game could also lead to great staying power.

GoldenEye 007: The Spy Who Revolutionized Shooters

When GoldenEye 007 landed on the Nintendo 64 in 1997, a revolution began. Drawing from the iconic James Bond universe, it merged an engaging single-player narrative with an exciting multiplayer experience. GoldenEye 007 not only brought the shooter genre from PC to consoles but enriched it with storytelling depth and cinematic elements. According to ComicBook.com, it remains a touchstone of innovation in gaming.

Quake: Pioneering 3D Gameplay and Online Connectivity

Quake took the baton from its predecessor and sprinted even further into the realm of innovation. Released in 1996, “Quake” is lauded for its real-time 3D rendering and groundbreaking online multiplayer, paving the way for the modern gaming mods community.

Tamagotchi: A Tiny Companion, A Global Phenomenon

Lastly, Tamagotchi, a virtual pet that captivated the hearts of millions in the 1990s, is honored for blending simplistic technology with emotional depth. Its interactive gameplay introduced children to digital care-giving, creating profound connections that brought video gaming into everyday life, resonating with users around the globe.

Each game, a stellar beacon of gaming history, cements its position among the legends. As these titles join The Strong’s prestigious Hall of Fame, their stories continue to inspire new generations in the limitless world of video games.