Discover 5 game franchises that spanned decades

Few industries evolve as quickly as gaming, but some game franchises have proven to be timeless, delighting generations of players. These series have not only marked the history of video games, but they also continue to reinvent themselves, gaining new fans over the years.

In this article, we explore the game franchises that have successfully spanned decades, analyzing what made them so enduring. From compelling narratives to technological innovations, these series have set standards and remain relevant in the competitive world of classic games.

1. Super Mario: Symbol of Nintendo and fun in games

Launched in 1985, the Super Mario franchise set new standards for platform games. The simplicity of the controls, combined with progressive challenges, captivated millions of players. Mario has become a cultural icon, representing Nintendo in each console generation. Therefore, with games ranging from the classic Super Mario Bros. to the acclaimed Super Mario Odyssey, the series remains innovative, incorporating advanced graphics and modern mechanics, without losing its essence. Thus, Mario proves that nostalgia and reinvention can coexist.

Super Mario game franchise
Photo: Disclosure/Nintendo

2. The Legend of Zelda: Epic adventures that shaped generations

Since its debut in 1986, The Legend of Zelda has transported players to vast worlds rich in stories and enigmas. The game pioneered deep narratives and freedom of exploration. Titles like Ocarina of Time are considered milestones in video game history, while Breath of the Wild redefined the open world genre. Thus, Zelda reinvents itself with each release, always taking advantage of technological advances to create immersive and striking experiences.

The Legend of Zelda
Photo: Disclosure/Nintendo

3. Final Fantasy: Turning RPGs into Visual Masterpieces

The Final Fantasy series was born in 1987, establishing itself as a reference in the RPG genre. Each game introduces new characters, worlds and stories, ensuring freshness to the franchise. The rich storytelling and unforgettable soundtracks have created a loyal fan base. Therefore, with increasingly cinematic graphics, like Final Fantasy XVI, the series continues to evolve, embracing new technologies without abandoning its roots.

Final Fantasy
Photo: Disclosure/Square

4. Pokémon: a game franchise that transcends generations

Since the release of Pokémon Red and Blue in 1996, the franchise has become one of the biggest cultural phenomenons in the world. The simple mechanics of capturing and training creatures captivated young and old alike. The success of Pokémon GO, which used augmented reality to transform the real world into a battlefield, showed the series' ability to embrace innovation. Thus, Pokémon remains relevant, expanding into media such as cinema and esports competitions.

Pokémon
Photo: Disclosure/The Pokémon Company

5. Call of Duty: The war that never leaves the scene

Created in 2003, Call of Duty revolutionized first-person shooters with intense narratives and cinematic action. The franchise gained prominence for its multiplayer mode, which attracted a massive fan base. Furthermore, adapting to the market is another pillar of its success, as in the popular Call of Duty: Warzone, which capitalized on the growth of battle royale style games. The series continues to redefine the boundaries of the genre, remaining relevant for two decades.

Call of Duty
Photo: Disclosure/Activision

Game franchises that have successfully spanned decades are more than just entertainment products; they are pillars of the video game industry. They represent technological innovations, engaging narratives and a deep understanding of player expectations. Therefore, by continually reinventing themselves, these series not only remain relevant, but also shape the future of the sector, influencing both new developers and the public.

These titles have stood the test of time for their ability to combine nostalgia with modernity, delivering remarkable experiences for different generations. Their longevity reinforces the cultural and economic impact of video games on the global stage. 

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Journalist by training, gamer for passion! I write about games, curiosities and guides to help other players explore this amazing universe. If you have a new game in the area, I'm always watching and ready to turn the experience into a good article. 🎮
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