Introduction
Video game history is filled with innovative gameplay concepts that have influenced future game development. Some of these ideas were groundbreaking at their time, while others refined existing mechanics in a way that set new standards for the industry. This article explores some of the most notable gameplay concepts that inspired future game development.
Open-World Exploration – “The Legend of Zelda” (1986)
One of the earliest and most influential open-world experiences came from The Legend of Zelda. Unlike linear platformers of its era, this game allowed players to explore a vast world freely, choosing their path and tackling challenges in various orders. This open-ended approach inspired future games such as Grand Theft Auto III, The Elder Scrolls series, and Breath of the Wild.
Active Time Battle System – “Final Fantasy IV” (1991)
Turn-based combat had long been a staple of role-playing games, but Final Fantasy IV introduced the Active Time Battle (ATB) system. This innovation added a real-time element to turn-based combat by requiring players to act quickly as character gauges filled up. The ATB system went on to influence numerous RPGs, including Chrono Trigger and later entries in the Final Fantasy series.
First-Person Shooter Controls – “Doom” (1993)
Doom refined the first-person shooter (FPS) genre by introducing fluid movement, fast-paced combat, and a level design that encouraged exploration. Its use of WASD movement and mouse aiming became the standard for FPS games, influencing titles like Half-Life, Call of Duty, and Halo.
3D Platforming – “Super Mario 64” (1996)
The transition from 2D to 3D gaming required significant gameplay changes, and Super Mario 64 set the benchmark for 3D platforming. With its dynamic camera, precise controls, and open-ended level design, it became the blueprint for future 3D platformers such as Banjo-Kazooie, Jak and Daxter, and Super Mario Odyssey.
Stealth-Based Gameplay – “Metal Gear Solid” (1998)
While stealth mechanics existed before, Metal Gear Solid revolutionized them with deep enemy AI, noise-based detection, and cinematic storytelling. The 33WIN game influenced later stealth-focused titles like Splinter Cell, Dishonored, and The Last of Us.
Bullet Time Mechanic – “Max Payne” (2001)
The introduction of bullet time in Max Payne allowed players to slow down action sequences for more cinematic gunfights. This mechanic was later refined in games like F.E.A.R., The Matrix: Path of Neo, and Red Dead Redemption 2.
Parkour and Free Running – “Assassin’s Creed” (2007)
While freerunning mechanics had been experimented with before, Assassin’s Creed made it a core gameplay feature. The seamless ability to climb buildings, leap between rooftops, and escape enemies became a staple in future open-world action games like Dying Light and Mirror’s Edge.
Procedural Generation – “Minecraft” (2011)
Minecraft took procedural generation to new heights, allowing for infinite, randomly generated worlds that encouraged creativity and survival. This concept influenced many other games, including No Man’s Sky, Terraria, and Rogue Legacy.
Emergent Storytelling – “The Walking Dead” (2012)
Telltale’s The Walking Dead introduced a narrative-driven experience where player choices had a lasting impact on the story. This emotional, choice-based gameplay inspired other interactive storytelling games such as Life is Strange, Until Dawn, and Detroit: Become Human.
Soulslike Combat – “Dark Souls” (2011)
Dark Souls revolutionized action RPG combat with its challenging yet rewarding gameplay, precise mechanics, and deep world-building. This style of gameplay inspired an entire subgenre known as “Soulslike,” influencing games such as Bloodborne, Nioh, and Elden Ring.
Battle Royale Mode – “PUBG” (2017)
The Battle Royale genre exploded in popularity with PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG), which introduced a large-scale, last-player-standing format. This concept was further popularized by Fortnite and Apex Legends, shaping multiplayer gaming trends for years to come.
Conclusion
Throughout gaming history, certain gameplay concepts have redefined the industry, influencing future titles and setting new standards. Whether through open-world design, combat mechanics, or storytelling innovations, these ideas have shaped modern gaming in ways that continue to evolve today.