South Africa has a number of physical and eCommerce game retailers that have allowed many people to grow up playing computer games popular in the US. These games here can still be played online, even some games that were launched in the 1980s, whilst others have been upgraded to make the most of the latest technology. This includes being able to play games like The Oregon Trail and RollerCoaster Tycoon on mobile devices.
Nostalgia can be good for mental health
Revisiting some of our favourite childhood computer games can create a sense of nostalgia which research has shown can be good for mental health since it can increase a feeling of social connection. In the 1990s many of us also began gaming at online casinos such as 888 Casino which now has more than 20 million users, their longevity and popularity equal to the top games from childhood. The 888 group has also won several awards within the industry including for Best Casino Operator.
Top Games from childhood
The Sims
The Sims requires the player to build a home and virtual life on a PC or mobile device. The game, from Electronic Arts. There are various versions of the game, though many treasure the first iteration which they find more challenging. Whilst it requires some imagination to play, which can be boring for others. There is a freeplay version if you want to test the game and it can also be played on mobile devices.
The Oregon Trail
The Oregon Trail was launched by MECC in 1974 and was played by using the keyboard keys. The game was an educational tool in US schools, teaching the realities of life as a nineteenth-century pioneer on the Oregon Trail. The rights to the game have moved to various publishers so there are many editions. The ability to hunt is an important part of the game and the part most children remember. In the original version, there were no graphics and players were timed on how fast they could accurately type “BANG”, “WHAM” or “POW”. Later versions included a person and later still a weapon. Points are awarded at the end of the journey for the players chosen profession, the number of surviving family members, the number of possessions and the amount of cash held. You can play the game for free online.
Webkinz
Launched in the early 2000s, Webkinz is now available via a free account, though it is now worth accessing the deluxe account to access all the areas that you remember from childhood when the game provided hours of entertainment. There are a lot of fun things to do and creating rooms for the pets is entertainment for adults as well as children.
Stardoll
A virtual paper doll launched in 2004, Stardoll lets player dress up characters in various outfits as well as creating a personal avatar.
Club Penguin
Build your life as a colourful penguin, create your style and decorate your own igloo. The original game shut down in 2017 but is now available free as Club Penguin Rewritten which provides the same gaming experience with minigames, the chance to adopt pet puffles and hang out with friends.
