Overview
Surf’s up. California Games traded the Olympics for the beach, featuring six events that defined 1980s California youth culture. From catching waves to landing skateboard tricks, the game captured a lifestyle rather than just sporting competition. Sponsor patches from real companies added authenticity to the laid-back competition.
Fast facts
- Developer: Epyx.
- Events: Six sports.
- Theme: California beach culture.
- Sponsors: Real company logos.
Events
| Sport |
Control style |
| Half-pipe skateboarding |
Trick-based scoring |
| Footbag (hacky sack) |
Juggling simulation |
| Surfing |
Wave riding |
| Roller skating |
Obstacle course |
| BMX |
Stunt course |
| Flying disk (frisbee) |
Distance/accuracy |
Skateboarding
| Element |
Mechanic |
| Half-pipe |
Back and forth |
| Tricks |
Aerials, handplants |
| Timing |
Peak of arc |
| Scoring |
Trick variety |
Surfing
| Aspect |
Challenge |
| Wave selection |
Choose right wave |
| Balance |
Stay on board |
| Tricks |
Inside tube |
| Wipeout |
Fall penalty |
| Feature |
Purpose |
| Real brands |
Authenticity |
| Player assignment |
Compete for sponsor |
| Trophy ceremony |
Brand visibility |
Epyx Games series
| Title |
Year |
Theme |
| Summer Games |
1984 |
Olympics |
| Winter Games |
1985 |
Winter Olympics |
| World Games |
1986 |
International sports |
| California Games |
1987 |
Beach culture |
Cultural impact
| Aspect |
Significance |
| Lifestyle gaming |
Beyond pure competition |
| 80s aesthetics |
Captured the era |
| Hacky sack |
Introduced to many |
| Skateboard culture |
Pre-Tony Hawk |
See also