TJ from GoCollege.com just pointed me to Classic Retro Games You Can Still Learn From Today!. Judging by the number of comments, GoCollege should focus more on old games and less on finding interships, paying student loans, and perfecting your resume.
Like most lists, this includes obvious choices (Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?), some surprises (Dope Wars), and curious omissions (really, no Oregon Trail?). However, the games mentioned did contribute to my education — except for Minesweeper.
What interested me about the list, other than the nostalgia factor, was that many of the games are part of my generation’s shared experience. I assume that even non-gamers have played Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? and have, at least, a passing familiarity with some version of SimCity.
October’s Blog Banter asked about timeless classics and many of these games would fit, but I wonder what games kids are playing now will be remembered in 20 years and credited for improving their education.