Why?
Moai are cool. And video games are cool.
Oh, and lists are cool too.
What was the first game featuring Moai?
One of the games from 1983.
Why so many from Konami?
That’s because of Yoshinori “Moai” Sasaki. (ref)
Why the fascination with Moai in Japan?
- 1970, March
Reproduction Moai at EXPO ’70, Osaka, outside the Chile Pavilion. (ref, ref) - 1980, September
Moai-like statue (Moyai) installed at Shibuya, Tokyo, as a gift from Nii-jima island. (ref) - 1982, March
EXPOLAND amusement park, at the same location as EXPO ’70 in Osaka, had a real Moai on display, which captured the attention of the public and kick-started the meme of Moai in games. (ref) - 1984, February
Konami add Moai to the first of their many games. (ref, ref) - 1986, February
POPCOM magazine featured a history of Moai which was perhap responsible for the doubling the number of Moai in video games that year. (ref)
Which game features Moai most prominently?
Perhaps 3×3 Eyes: Tenrin Ō Genmu which in the middle of the game features a detailed, hours-long tour of Easter Island, Moai, their history, and even mentions the history of Moai in Japan!
How do I pronounce Moai?
Moe-eye.
What are Moai?
See Wikipedia.
Made by @gingerbeardman
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