Online Game Day

What Is Online Game Day?

October 17th is "Online Game Day" in Japan. It was established by the American game company Electronic Arts. The date commemorates the Japanese release in 1997 of "Ultima Online," Japan's first subscription-based, massively multiplayer online role-playing game.

The Starting Point of Online Gaming in Japan

"Ultima Online" is a pioneer of the MMORPG genre, in which many players gather in the same world over the internet. It was released in the United States in September of the same year, 1997.

• Established by:Electronic Arts (an American game company)
• Date origin:the 1997 Japanese release of "Ultima Online"
• Game features:Japan's first subscription-based, massively multiplayer online RPG
• Reputation:regarded as one of the first successful commercial MMORPGs

The Beginning of Games Where Everyone Shares One World

Until then, games were mainly played alone or with a few people. Online games spread new ways of playing, such as adventuring with strangers and socializing in a virtual world. Today, online matches and co-op play are easy to enjoy on smartphones. Teamwork and friendships formed in games often carry over into real-life relationships.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Look back on online games you played in the past
• Enjoy a co-op game with family or friends
• Learn about the history of online games
• Set play times and keep a healthy balance with gaming

There Are Friends on the Other Side of the Screen

Online games created a new place to connect with people far away. On October 17th, think back to where it all began and enjoy the connections that games create.