In this high-tech era of incredible, cutting-edge graphics and relentlessly complex gameplay mechanics, it's become very easy for gamers to overlook gems from yesteryear. However, there is a certain timeless charm and appeal to some of the finest retro games out there to this day.
These vintage titles, while obviously coming up short compared to the remarkable technical prowess of their modern counterparts, manage to boast a unique blend of straightforward gameplay, creativity, and nostalgia that make them worthy of revisiting many years after they dropped their once-cutting edge status. Such retro games provide a glimpse into the origins of the beloved medium for modern players. They remind gamers of simpler times, when unforgiving difficulty curves and innovative gameplay mechanics inspired a sense of excitement and wonder.
6 Mega Man 2 (1988) Improved On Its Predecessor In Every Way To Become An Instant Classic
This classic action platformer managed to showcase perfect level design, tight controls, and challenging gameplay by the standards of the time. Improving on the original in every way, it also stood out as one of gaming's first top-notch sequels.
These days, Mega Man 2 is arguably best remembered for its impressive variety of creative, colorful boss fights. The story continues the bitter feud between the titular Mega Man and his dreaded nemesis, the mad scientist Dr Wily. Interestingly, the original Mega Man's sales were disappointing enough that a sequel happening at all was initially up in the air. Considering the immense critical acclaim this classic received for its then-ground-breaking graphics, top tier soundtrack, and effective gameplay. For players today, it serves as a technically astute time capsule for the peak of old school 80s gaming.
5 Chrono Trigger (1995) Provides A Fascinating Take On Time Travel
With an all-star development consisting of Final Fantasy's Hironobu Sakaguchi, Dragon Quest''s Yuji Horii, and Dragon Ball manga creator Akira Toriyama, Chrono Trigger seemed destined for success long before it dropped. In both sales and critical reception, it quickly established itself as one of the most important games of its time.
The plot revolves around a grandfather paradox caused by a teleportation device all the way back in 1000 AD that actually sends users back in time. In order to undo the damage and reset the timeline to what it's meant to be, players take control of six colorful characters from both 1000 AD and 600 AD who must put things right in an increasingly chaotic adventure. The narrative mayhem doesn't end there, however, as the game's primary villain is a monstrous alien living in 1999. Considering the imaginative, unpredictable storytelling, Chrono Trigger remains a compelling effort almost 30 years later with gameplay and designs that were ahead of its time.
4 Street Fighter 2 (1991) Is The Citizen Kane Of Fighting Games
Few games have had a bigger impact on the one-on-one fighting genre than this seminal, Capcom release for the arcade. Taking everything from the 1987 original and improving it to an almost unrecognizable level, Street Fighter 2 paved the way for every fighting game released in the many years since.
Like most Street Fighter games, this '90s classic boasts a diverse, colorful roster of playable characters for gamers to choose from. Mechanically, it was about as advanced as gaming could get at the time, with an effective combo system and special combat moves among other new and improved gameplay enhancements. Most importantly, Street Fighter 2 revolutionized arcade gaming by emphasizing head-to-head competition over personal scores. In 2023, this colorful, old school fighting game is still good fun for players looking to take each other on in addictive multiplayer combat.
3 Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night (1997) Provided A Masterclass In Horror Gaming For Its Day
More than two decades after its release, Symphony of the Night remains a timeless must-play for gaming aficionados. An essential moment in the popular Metroidvania subgenre of the time, this Castlevania installment was arguably one of the most important gaming releases of the '90s.
The game's hectic, non-linear playing structure managed to set a perfect stage for what became one of the fifth generation's most immersive playing experiences. With a fine-tuned blend of intellectually stimulating, puzzle-solving challenges, often brutal combat, and rewarding, long-term character progression, the game worked like a charm in providing non-stop thrills. Much to the joy of longtime fans of the series, the game also saw the return of Alucard from Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse as the player character. With its remarkable visuals and suitably gothic vibe, the much-loved sequel to Rondo of Bloodmaintains its masterpiece reputation to this day.
2 Super Metroid (1994) Took Fan Favorite Samus Aran To New Action Heights
This atmospheric, exploration-focused action adventure game came to define the iconic Metroid series as the '90s rolled on. The game sees series protagonist Samus Aran look to rescue a young Metroid creature from a merciless Space Pirate named Ridley.
At the time of release, Super Metroid garnered considerable acclaim for its tight controls, non-linear gameplay, and haunting, aesthetically pleasing environments. In the present day, all of these attributes remain a rewarding experience for gamers looking for a dose of retro thrills. A standout title for the Super Nintendo, Super Metroid unsurprisingly garnered universal acclaim across the board from both critics and players alike. Its complex, unconventional gameplay wound up influencing action games for years to come. It's also arguably the most important entry in the cult favorite Metroidvania subgenre of old school gaming.
1 The Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past (1991) Was The Ultimate Fantasy Game Of Its Day
A monumental moment in the world of adventure gaming, the third installment in the legendary Legend of Zelda series set a new standard for the franchise moving forward. As always, players take control of the frequently reborn Link, this time for a prequel adventure to the first two games.
At the time of its release, A Link to the Past boasted groundbreaking graphics and state-of-the-art gameplay. Its timeless appeal and complex, thoughtful storyline have ensured it manages to continue captivating players to this day. The compelling plot unfolds at a neat pace in the vast, often enchanting fantasy land of Hyrule. The game earned high praise for seamlessly blending combat action, world exploration, and puzzle-solving for an eclectic, rewarding gaming experience. Its well-rounded gameplay mechanics and challenging, colorful bosses remain a treat over three decades after its initial release.