There's a generation of FPSs that have these. Most aren't memorable I suppose.
Serious question:
Is Akira the first example of a Diagonal Elevator in media?
The manga ran in the 80s so it would need to be before that. I think there’s a plethora of examples of various fantasy/science fiction elevators starting with the invention of the elevator (late 19th c). Though IMO this type specifically (big, industrial, diagonal) has seen consistent use in games for almost entirely utilitarian reasons. It’s a cool way to spice up the usually room-to-room gameplay seen in 90s action games.
Right but the big elevator shaft diagonally going down (like the ones in games), I can't think of one before the Akira manga.
Maybe that one in Day of the Dead? Was that even diagonal?
Do these elevators that go down diagonally into underground bases have any basis in reality?
Definitely, true about games. That was practically a cliche by the PS2 era .
Wow I'm surprised I immediately remembered Half-Life, Final Fantasy VII and F.E.A.R.
Is there a secret diagonal elevator conspiracy going on?
hopefully , i never seen on ein real life - only half life.. Its when you know "this is a supersecrtet factory - it has a vertical elevator.
The only diagonal elevator I've seen (and took) is the one in Pamplona. The next closest thing I know is the funicular in Bilbao.
E: the one in Pamplona ominously takes you up to the citadel /j