Date
Saturday
Mar

March 8

National Retro Video Game Day

Get ready to press start and relive your childhood memories on National Retro Video Game Day - it's time to level up!

Yearly Date
March 8
Type
Day

Introduction

Get your controllers ready and dust off your old consoles because March 8 is National Retro Video Game Day! This day celebrates the nostalgic joy of playing classic video games from the past. Whether you're a fan of Super Mario Bros, Pac-Man, or Sonic the Hedgehog, this holiday is a perfect excuse to relive some childhood memories and have some fun with friends. Did you know that the first video game, called "Spacewar!", was created in 1962? Since then, video games have evolved into a worldwide phenomenon loved by people of all ages. So let's take a trip down memory lane and celebrate the wonderful world of retro gaming!

National Retro Video Game Day Timeline

1958
First Video Game
Physicist William Higinbotham created the first video game, a simple tennis game, which can be considered as the predecessor of the widely iconic Pong.
1972
Pong Revolution
Atari revolutionized the gaming world with the release of Pong, one of the first arcade video games that gained huge popularity.
1978
Space Invaders Invasion
Space Invaders released by Taito, became phenomenally popular and started what is now referred to as the "golden age" of arcade video games.
1980
Pac-Man Fever
Namco launched Pac-man, which soon became an icon of video game culture. The success of Pac-Man led to numerous sequels and spin-offs.
1985
Super Mario Bros Release
Nintendo released Super Mario Bros for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), marking the start of one of the best-selling video game franchises in history.
2021
National Retro Video Game Day
Gaming enthusiasts across the United States celebrate National Retro Video Game Day to honor and play classic video games that shaped the sector.

How to Celebrate National Retro Video Game Day

1

Host a retro video game tournament

Invite your friends over for a friendly competition and see who can get the highest score on classic games like Pac-Man, Super Mario Bros, or Tetris.

2

Dress up as your favorite video game character

Get creative and dress up as your favorite retro video game character. Whether it's a plumber, a hedgehog, or a yellow circle with a mouth - have fun with it!

3

Visit a retro arcade

Relive your childhood memories by visiting a retro arcade and playing some of your favorite classic games. Don't forget to bring lots of quarters!

4

Have a movie night featuring video game-inspired films

Get cozy on the couch and watch movies based on retro video games, such as Jumanji, Tron, or Mortal Kombat.

5

Create your own retro video game-inspired snacks

Get creative in the kitchen and make snacks inspired by classic video games. Think Pac-Man cookies, Tetris-shaped sandwiches, or Super Mario mushroom cupcakes.

Why We Love National Retro Video Game Day

A

It brings back nostalgia

Playing retro video games allows us to relive our childhood memories and take a trip down memory lane. Whether it's playing our favorite game from when we were kids or discovering new ones, National Retro Video Game Day lets us go back in time and experience the joy of playing these classic games.

B

They have simple yet addictive gameplay

Retro video games may not have the flashy graphics or complex storylines of modern games, but they make up for it with their simple yet highly addictive gameplay. These games are easy to pick up and play, making them perfect for anyone looking for a fun and casual gaming experience.

C

It's a community-building experience

Playing retro video games also brings people together - whether it's reminiscing with old friends or connecting with new ones over a shared love for these games. It creates a sense of camaraderie and belonging, making it a truly special experience that we can all enjoy.

National Retro Video Game Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Mar 7
Tuesday
2024
Mar 7
Thursday
2025
Mar 7
Friday
2026
Mar 7
Saturday
2027
Mar 7
Sunday