With so many online games available for gamers on every platform, it’s always nice to spear a thought for the games that may have brought us to gaming in the first place. However, taking a stroll through memory lane doesn’t necessarily mean rooting around in cupboards for our old gaming boards. Some classics have transferred seamlessly from the board and desktop computer to the online realm.
Chess
Chess seems to have endured throughout the centuries, online or in board form. Not only are chess tournaments thriving for young and old chess champions, but avid players of this game can continue their practice online, and against a computer’s auto-tuned logic. On top of this, chess tournaments are also available online, meaning that if you aren’t quite up for the idea of a tournament in a stadium, then you can play online against other chess-enthusiasts.
Backgammon
These days, you might have to trawl through a charity shop or go hunting online to find a backgammon board. This old classic has a loyal following, and those who have a knack for it really excel at this board game. Nowadays, however, you can find it online. You can even find backgammon games with different themes and differing levels of ability. As with chess, you are playing against a computer’s logic, which will always be excellent. While playing this game with friends might be good for social skills, the online equivalent will certainly sharpen your technical ability.
Racing
It used to be the case that to place a bet at the races you’d have to put on your best suit or fascinator, and take an expensive tip out to watch it in action. While there’s something to be said for dressing up and spending some time out at the real thing, you can now experience the races online. Doing this at home gives you more time to research the horse and find the odds on placing a bet.
PAC-MAN
While this isn’t as classic as say, a board game, this is now regarded as vintage. The Japanese-origin game became an immediate hit when it was first launch, and has been addictive to amateur and experienced gamers alike for generations. Its simple set-up means that it can still be downloaded and enjoyed to this day. While you might have all the modern, high-spec videogames at your disposal, there will always be time for crunching some flashing ghosts and chasing some 8-bit cherries.
Enjoying old classics with friends is a great way to dig up memories and remember what we all used to play. Inviting friends over for a game of Scrabble or chess doesn’t have to be quiet and studious, but an opportunity to talk and generate conversation without the distraction of a television. If you’re already an avid gamer, then downloading old, 8-bit games not only a way of taking a stroll down memory lane, but also appreciating the quality of what you have now.
