Video games are currently experiencing a meta moment. Rather than just breaking the fourth wall occasionally, new games are directly acknowledging the influential titles that have paved the way for them. In September, titles like Astro Bot, The Plucky Squire, and UFO 50 have all exemplified this trend, marking a significant shift in the video game industry. These games not only stand out on their own merits but also serve as a tribute to the rich history of video games.
In the past, video games often tried to replicate whatever was popular at the time. However, the current trend indicates that games are no longer merely following trends but actively engaging in a dialogue with them. This can be seen through cameos, references in gameplay, or the adoption of game design principles that defined the industry’s foundational titles. It represents a new level of self-awareness in video games, a trend that is both refreshing and exciting.
Astro Bot is a prime example of this referential celebration. It pays homage to PlayStation’s legacy by incorporating elements that honor its history. From collecting parts of a PlayStation 5 to saving VIP Bots resembling iconic PlayStation characters, the game not only celebrates major titles like God of War but also includes lesser-known gems like Alundra and Motor Toon Grand Prix. This recognition is not just a tribute to the PlayStation’s 30th anniversary but also a nod to the games that defined the platform. With influences from platforming classics like Crash Bandicoot and Jak & Daxter, Astro Bot is a heartfelt homage to the titles that shaped PlayStation’s identity.
While some may view Astro Bot as a reminder of dormant franchises, it is, in essence, a celebration of the past that paved the way for its existence. The game’s acknowledgment of the series that preceded it is a testament to its roots and the significance of its predecessors in shaping its development.
The Plucky Squire, developed by All Possible Futures and Devolver Digital, offers a different take on the meta trend. It embodies a celebration of creativity and inspiration by drawing elements from various games. With gameplay reminiscent of titles like The Legend of Zelda, The Plucky Squire includes mini-games that pay tribute to classics such as Punch-Out!, Rhythm Heaven, Fantasy Zone, and Crypt of the Necrodancer. Rather than coming off as gimmicky, this variety feels like a genuine conversation between the developers and the games that influenced them.
UFO 50 pushes this idea further by offering a collection of 50 games designed to evoke the 1980s gaming era. From the aesthetics to the gameplay, each of these games feels like a throwback to the 8-bit era. This bold approach of directly acknowledging the past while embracing the future exemplifies the current state of the gaming industry.
Games like Astro Bot, The Plucky Squire, and UFO 50 signify a level of maturity in the video game industry. Developers are now able to pay tribute to past series, incorporate gameplay elements from classic titles, or create game collections rooted in older design philosophies. While the novelty of this trend may fade over time, it is currently a refreshing embrace of the medium’s history and a recognition of the foundation on which the industry stands.
