Video Game Day is celebrated every year on July 8. What started as a niche hobby for kids has now become a global phenomenon enjoyed by both children and adults. With over 5 million video games created worldwide, there’s truly something for everyone—whether you prefer action, adventure, puzzles, or simulations.
History
The origins of video games date back to the 1950s, when university students developed early experimental games modeled after board games like tic-tac-toe. At the 1940 New York World’s Fair, Dr. Edward Uhler Condon introduced the Nimatron, a massive computer-like device that let people play the game of Nim. More than 50,000 people tried it—and most of them lost to the machine.
A true breakthrough came in 1967, when Ralph Baer, known today as the “Father of Video Games,” invented the Brown Box—one of the first home video game systems. His invention paved the way for Atari, which developed Pong, a classic tennis-style game. Following legal disputes and technological advancements, the Atari 2600 console debuted, ushering in the era of iconic games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong.
In the 1980s, Nintendo entered the scene with Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda, two titles that became instant hits. The following decades saw a surge in gaming consoles and platforms, with major contributions from Sony’s PlayStation series, Microsoft’s Xbox, and Nintendo’s Game Boy and Wii systems.
Interesting Facts
- The first Atari 2600 console was released in 1977 and featured games like Frogger, Asteroids, and Missile Command.
- Super Mario Bros. launched in 1985 and quickly became one of the best-selling games of all time.
- The Game Boy, a handheld console released in 1989, revolutionized portable gaming.
How to Take Part
There are countless ways to celebrate Video Game Day. You can host a gaming marathon at home, visit an arcade, or attend a gaming convention filled with tournaments, cosplay contests, and giveaways. Many of these events are livestreamed on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. Prefer something more relaxed? Invite friends over for a multiplayer game night, or explore themed bars that offer vintage and modern gaming experiences.
When is Video Game Day in 2025?
Video Game Day is observed on July 8 each year.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Tuesday | July | 8 | 2025 |
| Wednesday | July | 8 | 2026 |
| Thursday | July | 8 | 2027 |
| Saturday | July | 8 | 2028 |
| Sunday | July | 8 | 2029 |
