Today in Nerd History | September 9

September 9th is a powerhouse of pop culture premieres—from game consoles that shook the industry to TV shows and manga that pushed boundaries and broke hearts. On this day, Sony and SEGA faced off in the console wars, Fringe dove into fringe science, Attack on Titan began its apocalyptic saga, and Bluey bounded into our hearts with heartfelt, animated joy.

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.

The original Sony PlayStation launched in North America on September 9, 1995. This revolutionary gaming console helped usher in the era of 3D gaming and established Sony as a major player in the gaming industry.

Nerdy Facts:

• Best-Selling Console: The PlayStation became the first gaming console to ship over 100 million units worldwide, setting a new standard for gaming consoles.
• Iconic Games: The PlayStation is home to some of the most iconic games in history, including “Final Fantasy VII,” “Metal Gear Solid,” “Resident Evil,” and “Crash Bandicoot,” many of which have become enduring franchises.
• CD-ROM Format: The PlayStation popularized the use of CD-ROMs for gaming, allowing for larger and more complex games compared to the cartridges used by its competitors at the time.

The SEGA Dreamcast was released in North America on September 9, 1999 (9/9/99). Although its life span was short-lived, the Dreamcast is remembered fondly for its innovative features and exceptional game library.

Nerdy Facts:

• Ahead of Its Time: The Dreamcast was the first console to include a built-in modem for online play, paving the way for future consoles’ online capabilities.
• Unique Peripherals: The Dreamcast featured a variety of unique peripherals, including the Visual Memory Unit (VMU), a memory card with a screen that could be used as a secondary display for certain games.
• Cult Classics: The Dreamcast hosted a number of cult classic games, such as “Shenmue,” “Jet Set Radio,” “Crazy Taxi,” and “Sonic Adventure,” many of which continue to have passionate fanbases.

“Fringe,” created by J.J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci, premiered on September 9, 2008, on the Syfy channel. This science fiction series follows a team of FBI agents who investigate strange and unexplained phenomena, blending elements of procedural drama, sci-fi, and horror.

Nerdy Facts:

• Influences: “Fringe” was heavily influenced by shows like “The X-Files” and “The Twilight Zone,” offering a mix of standalone episodes and an overarching mythology that explored parallel universes and fringe science.
• Fan Favorites: The show’s characters, particularly Walter Bishop (played by John Noble) and Olivia Dunham (played by Anna Torv), became fan favorites, praised for their depth and development over the series.
• Cult Following: Although “Fringe” never achieved massive ratings, it developed a devoted fanbase and is often cited as one of the best sci-fi shows of its era.

The “Attack on Titan” manga, written and illustrated by Hajime Isayama, was first published on September 9, 2009. This dark fantasy series quickly gained popularity for its intense story, complex characters, and shocking twists.

Nerdy Facts:

• Global Phenomenon: “Attack on Titan” became a global sensation, leading to a highly successful anime adaptation, as well as various spin-offs, video games, and live-action films.
• Complex World-Building: The series is known for its intricate world-building, exploring themes of freedom, oppression, and the nature of humanity as characters battle against giant, human-eating Titans.
• Lasting Impact: “Attack on Titan” has had a significant influence on the anime and manga industry, with its popularity helping to elevate the genre on a global scale.

“Bluey,” an Australian children’s series created by Joe Brumm, made its debut in the United States on Disney Junior on September 9, 2019. The show follows the adventures of a Blue Heeler puppy named Bluey and her family, offering heartwarming and relatable stories for both children and parents.

Nerdy Facts:

• Family Focus: “Bluey” is praised for its realistic portrayal of family life, with episodes often exploring themes like imagination, parenting, and the importance of play.
• Cultural Impact: The show became a massive hit, not just in Australia but globally, with parents and children alike appreciating its humor, warmth, and positive messages.
• Awards and Recognition: “Bluey” has won numerous awards, including International Emmy Awards, and is celebrated as one of the best children’s shows of its time.

September 9th is a day that celebrates innovation in gaming, the thrill of sci-fi, the intensity of manga, and the heartwarming joy of children’s programming. Happy Nerd History Day to all who appreciate these iconic and influential releases!