In the space of just 23 days three decades ago, two initially unassuming releases changed videogames forever.

On Feb. 27, 1996, Pokemon Red and Green first hit Japanese shelves. The role-playing titles were the original entries in a series that would grow to become what is now considered the top-grossing media franchise in the world, worth more than "Mickey Mouse" or "Star Wars."

Just three weeks later, Capcom released Biohazard, better known outside Japan as Resident Evil. There was no cuddly Pikachu here, with the title a bloody experience that sought to make players feel the tension of being hunted by zombies. Almost 30 years on, gamers still can’t get enough. The critically acclaimed latest entry, Resident Evil Requiem, sold 5 million copies in five days after its release last month, the fastest ever pace. The series has shipped more than 180 million units in total.

© The Japan Times