The Strong Museum has unveiled its 2024 finalists for the World Video Game Hall of Fame, and among the prestigious inductees is the iconic NES classic, Metroid. Developed by Nintendo and first released in 1986, Metroid introduced players to enigmatic bounty hunter Samus Aran in a futuristic adventure that combined innovative gameplay with unforgettable music. It is described as a fusion of Super Mario Bros.’ platforming and non-linear storytelling of The Legend of Zelda, Metroid offered a new gaming experience. Notably, it also made history by featuring Samus as the first playable human female character in mainstream video games, a milestone that left an indelible mark on the industry.
The nomination for Metroid underscores its lasting influence, spawning a successful franchise with 13 core titles and selling more than 20 million units worldwide. Fans now have the chance to support Metroid and other beloved titles until March 21, 2024 by casting their votes. The three games with the most public support will join the International Advisory Board’s top three entries for selection in the final vote. Criteria for induction into the World Video Game Hall of Fame include continued popularity and influence in the gaming industry or popular culture. Notable Nintendo titles already featured include Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and the more recent addition, Wii Sports.
Among this year’s diverse lineup of nominees are classics such as Asteroids (1979), SimCity (1989), Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater (1999) and more. Which games do you think deserve a place in the Hall of Fame? Share your thoughts and favorites in the comments section as gaming enthusiasts eagerly await the announcement of this year’s nominees.
