Dr. Quackle, FIFA, Angry Birds & More Inducted Into Gaming’s Hall of Fame

Four Iconic Video Games Join the World Video Game Hall of Fame in 2026 The World Video Game Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 inductees, celebrating four legendary titles that have shaped the gaming industry and captivated millions of players worldwide. Angry Birds, Dragon Quest, FIFA International Soccer, and Silent Hill have been honored for their groundbreaking impact and enduring influence on gaming culture. This year’s inductees represent a diverse range of genres and eras, from the early days of mobile gaming to the psychological horror that redefined the genre. Angry Birds, launched in 2009, revolutionized touch-based mobile gaming and introduced tens of millions of players to the world of smartphones. Its simple yet addictive gameplay and instantly recognizable characters have made it a global phenomenon, transcending its origins to become a multimedia brand. Dragon Quest, now celebrating its 40th anniversary, is widely recognized as the foundation for Japanese role-playing games. The series has left an indelible mark on the industry with its compelling narratives, unforgettable music, and epic adventures. Despite its greater popularity in Japan, its influence on modern RPGs is undeniable. Silent Hill, which debuted in 1999, redefined the horror genre with its 3D graphics, dynamic camera, and deep psychological storytelling. The series has seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks to the success of Bloober Team’s Silent Hill 2 remake and Konami’s 2025 hit, Silent Hill. FIFA International Soccer, a staple in sports gaming, has also earned its place in the hallowed halls of gaming history. The series has been a cornerstone of the industry for decades, bringing the excitement of soccer to players around the globe. “The induction to the World Video Game Hall of Fame means we are standing shoulder to shoulder alongside the very greatest of gaming,” said Ben Mattes, creative officer of Angry Birds. “This is a truly special recognition for us and we’re deeply honored by it.” Lindsey Kurano, electronic games curator at The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, where the induction ceremony took place, emphasized the significance of these titles. “It would be difficult to imagine modern role-playing games without Dragon Quest,” Kurano said. “While Dragon Quest’s popularity has always been greater in Japan than abroad, its influence on the gaming industry and other iconic RPG games is undeniable.” The 2026 inductees were chosen from a group of beloved finalists, including Frogger, Galaga, League of Legends, Mega Man, PaRappa the Rapper, RuneScape, Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, and Tokimeki Memorial. The World Video Game Hall of Fame, hosted by The Strong Museum of Play, continues to celebrate the most influential and innovative games of all time.