30,000 Game History Files Free: Concept Art and Promo Materials from Nintendo to FromSoft Unveiled

The Video Game History Foundation (VGHF) is thrilled to announce that a significant portion of its expansive digital archive is now accessible to the public. This collection features over 30, 000 files related to video games, providing fans with an exceptional opportunity to explore the rich history of gaming. As a non-profit organization, VGHF is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of video game history, amassing a comprehensive digital archive that emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical media for future generations.

In a recent blog post on the official VGHF website, Phil Salvador, the foundation’s director, revealed that a portion of the digitized library has now been launched for public viewing. This resource is available through the Game History Library page. The project has been in development since the foundation’s inception in 2017 and includes a wide array of unique documents, including behind-the-scenes materials, rare publications, and memorabilia collected over the years.

Discover Unseen Concept Art and Developmental Materials in the New Archive

Extensive Archive Features Contributions from Nintendo, FromSoftware, and Others

This impressive collection contains promotional and developmental materials, concept art, magazine articles, and audio-visual files spanning various iconic video game franchises. Users can explore the original concept artwork for Sonic the Hedgehog created by lead artist Tom Payne, as well as promotional materials for every FromSoftware title—from the acclaimed Elden Ring to the lesser-known King’s Field. Additionally, significant contributions from classic game developers like Atari, Konami, and Sega further enrich the archive.

History enthusiasts can also revisit landmark moments, such as the press release for the original The Legend of Zelda, which famously utilized a gold cartridge to enhance its merchandising appeal (as seen in a document from the VGHF library).The library hosts complete issues of both official and fan-made gaming magazines, game booklet scans, and even developer recordings, including over 100 hours of raw development footage from the classic game Myst.

All documents in the library are meticulously indexed and cataloged, ensuring a fully searchable experience for users. A revealing video available on The Video Game History Foundation’s YouTube channel highlights the process of digitizing these extensive resources and foreshadows future additions.

VGHF’s Online Archive: A Vital Step in Preserving Gaming Heritage

More Valuable Files Await in VGHF’s Archive

A shocked Link with his arms raised from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. — Custom Image by Katarina Cimbaljevic

The substantial content available in the VGHF’s online library represents just a fraction of the foundation’s overall archival goals. Salvador emphasizes, “We’re in this for the long haul, ”noting that the team plans to continually expand the archive and introduce new features in the library system. All documents are shared with permission from the companies involved, accepted through collector donations, and supported by fans wishing to preserve historical content.

As video games have become a cornerstone of contemporary culture, preserving their history ensures that the industry’s evolution and the contributions of myriad individuals remain documented. The VGHF’s free online library of searchable historical documents serves as a crucial resource. Community members are encouraged to delve into the archive, uncovering hidden gems and eagerly anticipating its growth.

Sources include: VGHF website, Ars Technica, The Video Game History Foundation/YouTube, Game History Library page, Nintendo News Release 1987/VGHF

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