Games · 2002
Neon Vice, Cel-Shading, and Online Play
In 2002, 3D gaming hit its stride as iconic franchises pushed narrative and visual boundaries on sixth-generation consoles. Meanwhile, Microsoft transformed multiplayer console gaming forever with the launch of Xbox Live.
- October 2002 | PlayStation 2
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Rockstar Games redefined open-world action with an 80s neon-soaked satire packed with licensed hit songs and unforgettable criminal chaos.
- November 2002 | GameCube
Metroid Prime
Retro Studios successfully reinvented Samus Aran's universe into a brilliant first-person perspective that prioritized atmospheric exploration.
- November 2002 | Xbox Network
Xbox Live Service Launch
Microsoft introduced a seamless, unified online gaming service with broadband connectivity and voice chat that set the standard for console networks.
- July 2002 | PC
Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos
Blizzard Entertainment delivered a legendary real-time strategy campaign while providing a custom map editor that eventually birthed the MOBA genre.
- December 2002 | GameCube
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
Nintendo shocked and delighted players with expressive cel-shaded graphics and an expansive oceanic adventure across a sunken Hyrule.
- May 2002 | PC / Xbox
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
Bethesda Game Studios unleashed an insanely detailed, open-ended fantasy RPG that set a new benchmark for player freedom.
- March 2002 | PlayStation 2
Kingdom Hearts
An unlikely crossover between Disney magical worlds and Square's Final Fantasy universe captivated gamers with charming action-RPG gameplay.
- August 2002 | GameCube
Super Mario Sunshine
Mario brought the water-spewing FLUDD backpack to Isle Delfino for a bright, acrobatic 3D platforming adventure.
Enjoyed your trip back in time?