Today in Nerd History | September 20

Here’s your Today in Nerd History for September 20, a date where pink puffballs, space cowboys, chaotic geese, and chaotic roommates made their mark. Whether you love bizarre sitcoms, cult-classic sci-fi, or stealthy honking, this day is full of offbeat brilliance.

Inclusion on this list does not imply that the entry is family friendly, only that it was a nerd culture milestone. Parents should, of course, use discernment.

“Kirby Super Star,” developed by HAL Laboratory and published by Nintendo, was released for the Super Nintendo on September 20, 1996. This action-platformer features Kirby in a collection of smaller games, each with its own unique gameplay style and objectives.

Nerdy Facts:

• Game Collection: “Kirby Super Star” is actually a collection of eight different games, ranging from traditional platforming levels to boss rushes and even a treasure-hunting adventure, offering players a variety of experiences in one package.
• Co-op Fun: The game introduced a two-player co-op mode, where a second player could control one of Kirby’s allies, making it one of the first Kirby games to offer cooperative multiplayer gameplay.
• Lasting Appeal: “Kirby Super Star” is often regarded as one of the best games in the Kirby series, with its influence seen in later titles like “Kirby Star Allies.” It was also remade for the Nintendo DS as “Kirby Super Star Ultra,” which added new content and updated graphics.

“Firefly,” created by Joss Whedon, premiered on Fox on September 20, 2002. This space Western follows the adventures of the ragtag crew of the spaceship Serenity as they navigate life on the fringes of society in a distant future.

Nerdy Facts:

• Short but Sweet: Despite its brief run of just 14 episodes, “Firefly” developed a passionate fanbase known as Browncoats. The show’s blend of Western and sci-fi elements, witty dialogue, and complex characters have made it a beloved cult classic.
• Serenity Lives On: Due to fan demand, the story of “Firefly” was continued in the 2005 film “Serenity,” which resolved some of the show’s lingering plotlines and gave fans a sense of closure.
• Cultural Legacy: “Firefly” continues to be a significant part of pop culture, inspiring comic books, novels, and even a role-playing game. The show’s influence can also be seen in other media that mix genres and explore themes of rebellion and freedom.

“New Girl,” created by Elizabeth Meriwether, premiered on Fox on September 20, 2011. The sitcom stars Zooey Deschanel as Jess Day, a quirky teacher who moves in with three single guys after a rough breakup, leading to comedic and heartfelt situations.

Nerdy Facts:

• Adorkable: Zooey Deschanel’s portrayal of Jess Day coined the term “adorkable,” describing her character’s mix of awkwardness and charm. Jess quickly became a beloved figure in TV comedy, known for her quirky personality and unique fashion sense.
• The Loft: The dynamic between Jess and her roommates—Nick, Schmidt, and Winston—became the heart of the show, with their friendships evolving over the series’ seven seasons. The loft where they all live became an iconic setting.
• Guest Stars Galore: “New Girl” featured an array of memorable guest stars, including Prince, who appeared in a special post-Super Bowl episode, adding to the show’s pop culture appeal.

Game Changer premiered on CollegeHumor’s Dropout platform, flipping game show conventions with a new format every episode. Hosted by Sam Reich, the show thrives on surprises, improv chaos, and hilarious contestant confusion.

Nerdy Facts:

• Contestants are never told the rules ahead of time—they must figure them out during the game.
• The show has featured everything from musical episodes to emotional storytelling challenges.
• It helped redefine online comedy programming and became a flagship show for the Dropout service.

“Untitled Goose Game,” developed by House House, was released on September 20, 2019, for PC and other platforms. This unique stealth-puzzle game lets players control a mischievous goose causing chaos in a quiet village.

Nerdy Facts:

• Meme-Worthy: The game quickly became an internet sensation, with the goose’s antics spawning countless memes and fan art. The simple yet hilarious premise—being a goose and causing trouble—resonated with players worldwide.
• Award-Winning: “Untitled Goose Game” received critical acclaim for its humor, design, and originality. It went on to win several awards, including D.I.C.E. Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Character and Outstanding Achievement for an Independent Game.
• Cultural Impact: The game’s success led to its inclusion in various “best of” lists for 2019, and its quirky charm continues to inspire fans and creators alike. The goose has become an iconic figure in indie gaming.

From 8-bit adventure to interstellar rebellion, from stealthy geese to improv gold, September 20 is a celebration of unique ideas and cult favorite creativity. It’s a reminder that sometimes the weirdest concepts make the biggest splashes.

Happy Nerd History Day!