California Games | Gaming Throwback

This 16-bit treasure was developed by Epyx, Inc. and was originally released in 1987 on the Apple II and Commodore 64. Then it was re-released on the Atari 2600, the SEGA Master System, the NES and even DOS. Here’s the game’s description: “Get ready for the gnarliest, most radically awesome sports events under the sun! They're six of California's hottest games. Geared for daredevils - and guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping!” Ok, it’s easy to laugh at the gameplay now, but think about it: This was released over 30 years ago. In 1987, "Walk Like an Egyptian" was #1 on the charts, The Simpsons had just aired their FIRST episode, and California Games was selling like hotcakes - more than 300,000 in the first nine months. And here’s why: It offers six, colorful  games: BMX Bike Racing, Surfing, Rollerskating, Flying Disk (aka Frisbee), Foot Bag (aka Hacky Sack), and Half Pipe Skateboarding. Each offer quite a unique and challenging control layout. Not only that, you can play with up to 8 players. This makes it the Beat Saber, the Guitar Hero, the ultimate party video game of its time. Fun Fact: this was one of the first video games that girls actually liked. (It’s true. Look it up.) Does this game bring on any flashbacks? And which game should we throwback to next time? Let us know in the comments!