Video games today have a come a long way from where they began. While their history spans decades, only a few beloved titles live on in the hearts of fans. One such classic is Kid Icarus – a seminal platformer game from the 1980s. Given its impact on gaming culture, teaching students about Kid Icarus can offer valuable insights into the growth of gaming as an industry and its historical significance. In this article, we will delve into how educators can introduce their students to the wonders of Kid Icarus and help them appreciate its legacy.
The first step in teaching students about Kid Icarus is to provide an overview of the game’s history. Released in 1986 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Kid Icarus starred a young angel named Pit who sought to save Angel Land from an underworld invasion. Developed by Nintendo R&D1 and directed by Satoru Okada and Yoshio Sakamoto, Kid Icarus went on to inspire sequels like 1991’s ‘Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters’ for the Game Boy and 2012’s ‘Kid Icarus: Uprising’ for the Nintendo 3DS.
Educators should emphasize the significance of Kid Icarus’s gameplay mechanics, which were groundbreaking at the time. The game featured nonlinear exploration, vertical scrolling levels, and platforming action that differentiated it from contemporary side-scrolling titles like Super Mario Bros. and Metroid. Moreover, players could also collect items – like weapons and health upgrades – that aided Pit on his quest.
Next, discuss Kid Icarus’s iconic cast of characters – including Pit himself who is often regarded as the original archetypical video game hero molded after Greek mythology’s Icarus. Teachers can also explore the game’s antagonist Medusa and her army of underworld creatures, examining the influence of Greek myths on their design.
One effective way to introduce students to Kid Icarus is through interactive learning experiences. Allow students to play sections of the original NES game or more recent titles such as Kid Icarus: Uprising. This hands-on experience will help them understand the game’s mechanics and storyline better. Educators can create classroom sessions where students discuss their gameplay observations and share insights on character development and storyline progression.
Additionally, touch on the game’s lasting impact on popular culture. Kid Icarus has a cult following that has contributed to Pit becoming an iconic figure within Nintendo’s universe. Moreover, Pit’s inclusion in the popular fighting game series ‘Super Smash Bros.’ has presented the character – and by extension, Kid Icarus – to a broader audience.
Lastly, invite guest speakers from the video gaming industry or incorporate expert interviews through videos and articles that detail their experience with Kid Icarus in shaping modern video games. Insight from professionals will enrich students’ understanding of how games like Kid Icarus have influenced contemporary successors.
In conclusion, teaching students about Kid Icarus offers an engaging trip into video gaming history while highlighting its connection to art, literature, and mythology. By exploring this legendary title, educators can demonstrate how early games have shaped today’s massive industry. Armed with hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge, students will come away with a newfound appreciation for this classic gem.
