The Duke Nukem Series is a franchise of video games that began in 1991 with the release of the original Duke Nukem. The series features the titular character, Duke Nukem, a macho hero known for his one-liners and over-the-top personality. The games typically involve Duke battling aliens and other enemies to save the world, often incorporating elements of humor and satire. The most notable entry in the series is Duke Nukem 3D, released in 1996, which popularized first-person shooter gameplay. The franchise has seen various sequels and spin-offs, including the long-awaited Duke Nukem Forever, which was released in 2011 after a lengthy development period. The series has garnered a cult following and is recognized for its influence on the gaming industry.