The Evolution Of Arcade Games In The Modern Internet Environment

By Author: paul florin
Total Articles: 115
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When arcade games first came out, they were restricted to coin-op machines. A few years later, with the invention of video game consoles, gamers were able to enjoy Pacman Pong and other arcade gems from the comfort of their own home. Now, in addition to coin-ops and video game consoles, there is the Internet. Coffee Break, Games Serpent and Arcade Street are just a few of the arcade games available through the modern Internet.



However, the evolution of arcade games in the modern Internet environment was not an easy venture. This was mainly because the “modern Internet” didn’t become that way until the 90s, when graphics could be integrated into the surfing experience. Before then arcade games didn’t exist because the Internet wasn’t advanced enough to handle their programming. Instead, there were several text-based role-playing or adventure games, genres which are a far cry from arcade games.



It was until the launching of the Sierra Network that there was some hope of playing arcade games in a more ...
... modern Internet environment. Here, there were online games with great graphics and even animation. Of course, the arcade games still weren’t as they are on today’s Internet, but it did let programmers know that it could be done.



Later on in 1996, the invention of Flash made it possible to play arcade games through the modern Internet. What is Flash? Flash is an illustration program that allows designers to create animations. These animations could then be integrated into online movies, offline software and of course, online arcade games.



So, from that point forward, the modern Internet became flooded with arcade games. And, due to the fact that the majority of these games were created with the intention to drive traffic to a particular site, most of them were offered free-of-charge. In addition, the arcade games could be played right online. You don’t have to waste any time downloading extra software, since the games can be played through your Internet browser.



Online arcade games get even more interesting when money wagering is incorporated. This is the case for online gaming tournaments, where players can place bets on their games. If they end up winning a round, they will win a small amount of cash. The amount can be higher if the tournament site decides to host a jackpot.



Yet, what about arcade games where players can become more immersed into a virtual world? Are they available in the modern Internet environment? Well, when it comes to online gaming and the modern Internet, people still tend to prefer the role-playing genre. However, more and more role-playing games are taking on an action-based style, where arcade-like skills are needed to defeat an enemy. Of course, they aren’t officially considered “arcade games” because you have to do other things besides killing enemies or jumping platforms.



Still, there are ‘official’ more extensive arcades games on the modern Internet. Pirates of the Caribbean is an example. Fashioned after the movie, Pirates of the Caribbean uses arcade-style action to defeat enemies in a 3-D world. And, like other online arcade games, Pirates of the Caribbean can be played for free.



In conclusion, the evolution of arcade games in the modern Internet environment has spanned several decades, with each one promising even more innovation. Now, there are thousands of online arcade games available. Some of these games even contain the same type of graphics and game play as any next-gen video game console. So, if you’re ever bored start having fun with online arcade games. You’ll be entertained for hours without being forced to spend any money.