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