The origins of the modern gaming world lie in some of the most iconic games created back in the 1980s and 1990s: the era of the 2D video game, an era that has inspired a modern 2D revival.
What Are 2D Games?
Before the high budget billion-selling 3D games, video games were presented in two dimensions. Without fancy graphics and high level sound effects, games makers in the 80s and 90s had to rely on excellent design, gameplay and compelling characters.
But 2D gaming can be just as beautiful and memorable as any 3D experience. In recent years there has been a revival of interest in the 2D game, both in the creation of new 2D games and the appreciation of long forgotten titles. As the necessary tools to make games are now more readily available, indie gaming is taking the 2D model to new heights. Here are three of the most popular 2D gaming titles around:
1. Mark Of The Ninja
If there is one game above others that can claim to be the best of the modern 2D titles, then Mark Of The Ninja could be that game.
Released in 2012 it offers striking visuals, based around hand-painted environments and award-winning animation. It is essentially a platform game with a stealth focus, that manages to simultaneously capture the very best of old-school 2D gaming with modern gaming techniques.
It also provides completely immersive gameplay, as the central character appears to have almost unlimited options when it comes to defeating enemies. It is also one of those rare games that has earned almost universal respect from fans and critics alike.
2. Fez
This remarkable game, which was released in 2012 manages to pull off something that very few games have been able to do. It combines 2D and 3D elements, yet retains a coherent sense of game mechanics.
Essentially, it is a 2D game, in that it presents initially in that style, until the central character obtains a magical fez which reveals to him that the 2D world is actually one of four sides to a 3D world.
If that sounds like an unlikely premise for a video game, the end result was a remarkable and engrossing playing experience, that featured vastly differing landscapes, puzzles, catchy sound effects and stylish playfulness. Highly praised by critics, is has been one of the undoubted successes of the 2D revival and is the type of game that has to be played to be believed.
3. Spelunky
Released in 2008, Spelunky is a relatively short game, but it certainly caught the imagination of gamers and has even spawned a sequel, Spelunky 2, in 2020.
The game is based around an explorer who has to tunnel and dig for treasure, while avoiding various monsters and enemies. There is even a level editor enabling players to design their own sections to add to the game. The 2D graphics are simple but clear and crisp and the gameplay is compelling, keeping players hooked as all the very best 2D games manage to do.
It was such a popular game that players were happy to overlook some minor quirks in the controls. For many, Spelunky remains the ultimate example of the 2D renaissance.