Angry Birds, FIFA among World Video Game Hall of Fame's new inductees

May 7, 2026 - 18:42

Rochester, N.Y. - The World Video Game Hall of Fame added four new members on Thursday, honoring titles that shaped how people play and think about games. The inductees, announced at the Strong Museum, include the mobile phenomenon Angry Birds, the long-running sports simulation FIFA, the classic arcade shooter Asteroids, and the influential survival horror game Resident Evil.

Angry Birds, released in 2009, turned smartphones into gaming devices for millions of casual players. Its simple slingshot mechanics and colorful characters became a cultural touchstone, spawning sequels, movies, and merchandise. FIFA, first launched in 1993, set the standard for sports video games by combining licensed teams with realistic gameplay. Over three decades, it grew into a global franchise that introduced soccer to new audiences through virtual play.

Asteroids, from 1979, remains a landmark of the golden age of arcade games. Its vector graphics and physics-based movement challenged players to navigate a field of floating rocks and flying saucers. Resident Evil, released in 1996, defined the survival horror genre with its tense atmosphere, limited resources, and zombie-filled mansion. It inspired countless imitators and continues to influence game design today.

The Hall of Fame recognizes games that have achieved lasting popularity, cultural impact, and innovation. This year's class joins previous inductees like Pac-Man, Tetris, and Super Mario Bros. The Strong Museum in Rochester houses the largest collection of video game artifacts in the world.