In the ’90s, video game demos were like little gifts that gave you a taste of the full gaming experience. Buying magazines that included demo discs filled my young heart with joy. Game developers competed to offer the most impressive demo in hopes of convincing you to buy the full version.

I still remember when I got the demo for Destruction Derby—a circular arena where cars crashed into each other to score points. To get a higher score, you had to hit opponents in a way that made their car spin 360 degrees! The demo lasted only 30 seconds, but my friends and I replayed it countless times, always trying to beat each other’s high scores within that short window.

Demos were the perfect appetizer before a delicious gaming feast.