Ah, the 1980s - a time of big hair, neon colors, and the dawn of handheld computer games. It was a decade that saw the emergence of some of the most iconic and beloved games that still hold a special place in the hearts of gamers around the world. In this blog post, we'll take a trip down memory lane and dig up the hidden treasures of 1980s handheld computer games. So grab your leg warmers, put on your favorite synth-pop track, and let's dive in!

The Birth of Handheld Gaming

The 1980s marked a significant turning point in the world of gaming, as portable devices began to make their way into the hands of eager gamers. The first true handheld electronic game was Mattel's Auto Race, released in 1976, but it was in the 80s that handheld gaming really took off. The introduction of LCD screens and microprocessors paved the way for more advanced and engaging games, and companies like Nintendo, Atari, and Sega were quick to capitalize on this new technology.

Nintendo Game & Watch: The Pioneer of Handheld Gaming

When talking about 1980s handheld computer games, it's impossible not to mention the Nintendo Game & Watch series. Launched in 1980, the Game & Watch was a line of handheld electronic games that featured a simple LCD screen, a watch, and an alarm. The first Game & Watch game, Ball, was a simple juggling game that captured the hearts of gamers and set the stage for a series of iconic titles.

Throughout the 1980s, Nintendo released a total of 59 Game & Watch titles, including classics like Donkey Kong, Mario Bros., and Zelda. These games were a massive hit and laid the foundation for Nintendo's future success in the handheld gaming market.

Atari Lynx: The First Color Handheld Console

In 1989, Atari released the Lynx, the world's first handheld gaming console with a color screen. The Lynx boasted a 16-bit processor, 4,096 colors, and a backlit display, making it a technological marvel at the time. Despite its impressive specs, the Lynx struggled to compete with Nintendo's Game Boy, which was released the same year. However, the Lynx remains a beloved piece of gaming history, with titles like California Games, Blue Lightning, and Chip's Challenge still fondly remembered by fans.

Sega Game Gear: Taking on the Game Boy

Not to be outdone by its competitors, Sega entered the handheld gaming market in 1990 with the Game Gear. Featuring a color screen and a library of popular Sega titles, the Game Gear aimed to dethrone the Game Boy as the king of handheld gaming. While it didn't quite achieve that goal, the Game Gear was home to some fantastic games, such as Sonic the Hedgehog, Columns, and Shinobi.

TurboExpress: The Handheld Powerhouse

The TurboExpress, released in 1990 by NEC, was a handheld version of the TurboGrafx-16 console. With a 16-bit processor and the ability to play the same game cards as its home console counterpart, the TurboExpress was a powerhouse in the handheld gaming world. The system's standout titles included Bonk's Adventure, R-Type, and Alien Crush, making it a must-have for any serious 1980s gaming enthusiast.

LCD Handhelds: The Pocket-Sized Phenomenon

In addition to the major players in the handheld gaming market, the 1980s also saw a plethora of standalone LCD games. These pocket-sized devices often featured simple, yet addictive gameplay and were perfect for passing the time on long car rides or waiting in line. Tiger Electronics was a major player in this market, with their line of handheld games featuring popular franchises like Mega Man, Double Dragon, and Castlevania.

The Legacy of 1980s Handheld Gaming

While technology has advanced leaps and bounds since the 1980s, the impact of handheld gaming during this decade cannot be overstated. The innovations and iconic titles that emerged during this time laid the groundwork for the handheld gaming devices we know and love today, such as the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation Vita.

The 1980s was a magical time for handheld gaming, and the memories of those classic games will forever be etched in the minds of those who experienced them. Whether it was the simple charm of the Game & Watch series, the cutting-edge technology of the Atari Lynx, or the pocket-sized fun of standalone LCD games, the 1980s handheld gaming scene was truly a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.