Nostalgia: The Classic Games That Transported Me Back to Childhood

Looking back, childhood was the golden era, filled with simple pleasures and joys derived from classic games. Whether it was playing hide and seek in the streets or cheering on every move in a board game, those times shaped my love for games. In this article, I will explore some of the classic games from my childhood, including the intricacies of a traditional Indian game, the replayability of an RPG, and the relentless challenge of a classic shooting game.

The Intricacies of a Traditional Indian Game

Growing up, there were many games that delighted me. One that stood out was Kastura or its various names like bead 16 or shola goti. This traditional board game was not only popular in my region but also a nostalgic favorite for many. The rules were straightforward yet engaging: on your turn, you must move one of your beads to an adjacent hole. If you land on a hole with an opponent’s bead, you can capture it by jumping over it with your own bead. The game ends when one player has captured all of the opponent's beads. The challenge lay in strategic planning and anticipation of your opponent's moves.

A Real RPG Experience: Rappelz

My childhood was filled with many fantastical games, but Rappelz held a special place in my heart. It was more than just a game; it was a community. The game offered a perfect blend of adventure and camaraderie. Rappelz was an online multi-player role-playing game where players could choose from one of three classes and explore a vast world. The game was a hit for its seamless gameplay and friendly community. I was part of the top 5 clan, and it was a testament to the camaraderie and cooperation within the game. Eventually, I was banned due to treason and low-trading, which involved trading high-level items for low ones, disrupting the game's economy. It was a harsh moment, but it made me appreciate the game even more. The ban lasted for an unusually long time—494827194749473927484 minutes, a random number that seemed to stretch for years. This incident made me reflect on the fleeting nature of all things, including the joy of playing a game I held so dear.

A Challenger’s Odyssey: Contra 3

The era of 80’s and 90’s video games was also characterized by intense and challenging gameplay. Contra 3: The Alien Wars was a standout game that demanded skill and persistence. It was a mission to conquer the game on the hardest difficulty level, and I dedicated a significant portion of my free time to achieve it. Simultaneously, my friend and I excelled in Killer Instinct for SNES. We could easily borrow the game and play it without any time constraints, mastering all the characters and their ultra combos. These games were not just about winning; they were about the thrill of persistence and the joy of overcoming challenges.

The Golden Era of Childhood

Reflecting on the golden era of my childhood, I cannot help but feel nostalgic. The games we played as kids were a significant part of that era. From hide and seek and badminton to board games like chess and carrom, each game brought a unique joy and learning experience. Even today, some of these classic games remain popular, but others like pittho and Tippy Tap have been largely forgotten. These games were not just entertainment but also a social experience, bringing people together and fostering friendly competition.

Today, technology has evolved, and while modern games offer powerful graphics and immersive experiences, there is something timeless about the simplicity and purity of classic games. They remind us of a simpler time and the joy that can be found in the simplest of pleasures. So, the next time you encounter a classic game, take a moment to reminisce about the joy it brought you, and perhaps, relive some of those cherished childhood memories.