Timeless Classics: Top Retro Games of the 80s and 90s

GoldenEye 007 revolutionized console shooters with its innovative split-screen multiplayer and immersive campaign, establishing itself as a pillar of 90s first-person shooters.

• One of the best Nintendo 64 games

• The best couch multiplayer FPS on N64

• Revolutionized the FPS genre

• Revolutionized console FPS

Street Fighter II revolutionized the fighting game genre with its deep gameplay and iconic characters, setting a standard for arcade and console games of the 90s. Its legacy endures as a foundational pillar of retro gaming, proving its status as a timeless classic.

• Detailed graphics for the time

• Revolutionary fighting game

The Legend of Zelda revolutionized adventure and exploration in video games with its vast open world and focus on puzzle-solving. Its innovative gameplay design and captivating narrative established it as a pillar of retro gaming, influencing countless titles that followed.

• Established important characters and diverse environments

• It is a famous video game franchise

• Eternal struggle between good and evil

Final Fantasy VII stands as a cornerstone of 90s role-playing games, defining the genre with its epic narrative, memorable characters, and an immersive world that captivated a generation. Its impact on the industry and enduring popularity solidify it as a timeless retro classic.

• Unique antagonists

• Heartwarming protagonists

• Good 3D graphics in the 90s

• Mind-blowing scenery and story

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night stands as a pillar of 90s retro gaming, redefining the Metroidvania genre with its intricate level design, deep gameplay, and unforgettable gothic atmosphere. Its influence endures, cementing it as a timeless classic that continues to captivate players decades after its release.

• Incredible melodies that set the mood for the game

• Striking visual effects

• Great variety of enemies

• Brings Castlevania closer to an RPG

Pac-Man stands as a pillar of arcade gaming, defining the maze genre with its addictive gameplay and iconic character. Its simple yet profound design and universal appeal have kept it relevant and enjoyable for generations of players.

• It became a worldwide phenomenon

• Addictive gameplay

• It achieved a Guinness World Record

• It was a sales phenomenon in the 80s

Sonic the Hedgehog revolutionized platforming games with its breakneck speed and innovative level design, establishing itself as an undisputed icon of the 16-bit era. Its fluid gameplay and vibrant visual style make it a cornerstone of 90s nostalgia.

• Optimizes the arcade experience

• Sega's flagship franchise

• One of the best-selling video game sagas

• Game capable of flying through the air

Donkey Kong Country revolutionized platforming games with its pre-rendered graphics and innovative gameplay, establishing itself as an unforgettable milestone of the 16-bit era. Its intricate level design and iconic soundtrack make it a classic that continues to be enjoyed by generations.

• Thrilling adventure

• Includes extra levels

Super Mario Bros. defined the platforming genre and set a standard for game design that continues to influence today. Its innovative gameplay, memorable levels, and iconic characters make it a cornerstone of the golden age of retro gaming.

• Local multiplayer with a single console

• Can be played online with other players

Mortal Kombat earned its place in this ranking for its groundbreaking combat system and iconic finishing moves, the 'fatalities,' which defined a generation of fighting games. Its cultural impact and distinctive gameplay make it a pillar of the 80s and 90s retro era.

• More realism

• Darker scenarios