Retro video games refer to video games that were released in the past, typically from the 1970s to the 1990s, and are considered classics or vintage games by today’s standards. These games are often characterized by their pixel art graphics, chiptune music, and simple yet addictive gameplay.

Retro video games were typically played on older gaming consoles or arcade machines, such as the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Sega Genesis, Atari 2600, or arcade cabinets. These games often had limited hardware capabilities compared to modern games, with lower resolution graphics, limited color palettes, and basic sound effects.

Despite these limitations, retro games were able to captivate players with their innovative gameplay mechanics, creative level design, and memorable characters.

Retro video games span across various genres, including platformers, action-adventures, role-playing games (RPGs), puzzle games, racing games, and more. Some of the most iconic retro games include Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Pac-Man, Tetris, Mega Man, Castlevania, Street Fighter II, and Sonic the Hedgehog, among others.

One of the key elements that define retro video games is their nostalgic appeal. Many gamers who grew up playing these games have fond memories associated with them, and playing retro games can evoke a sense of nostalgia for the past.

The pixel art graphics, chiptune music, and simplistic yet challenging gameplay can transport players back to a bygone era of gaming, where gaming was a simpler and more straightforward experience.

Retro video games have also had a significant impact on the gaming industry and continue to influence modern games. Many gameplay mechanics, design elements, and storytelling techniques that were pioneered in retro games are still used in contemporary games.

The creativity and innovation displayed in these classic games have left a lasting legacy and continue to inspire game developers and players alike.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in retro video games, with many gamers seeking out and collecting vintage games and consoles, and developers creating new games that pay homage to the retro gaming era.

Retro gaming communities, events, and conventions have also emerged, providing a platform for gamers to celebrate the nostalgia and joy of playing these classic games.

There are countless retro video games that have left a lasting impact on the gaming industry and continue to be beloved by players even today.

Retro Video Games List

Super Mario Bros. (1985)

Super Mario Bros. is a side-scrolling platformer where players control Mario, a mustachioed Italian plumber, as he embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Peach from the evil King Koopa, also known as Bowser. The game is divided into worlds, each consisting of several levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and power-ups. Mario’s objective is to navigate through the levels, defeat enemies by jumping on them or using power-ups, collect coins, and reach the end of the level to progress to the next one.

One of the most significant innovations of Super Mario Bros. is its level design, which introduced a new standard for platformers. The game features carefully crafted levels with a variety of obstacles, hidden secrets, and challenging enemies that require precise platforming skills to overcome. The level design progressively increases in difficulty, providing players with a sense of accomplishment as they master each stage.

Super Mario Bros. also introduced many iconic power-ups that have become staples in the Mario franchise, such as the Super Mushroom, which makes Mario grow in size and gain an extra hit point, and the Fire Flower, which allows Mario to shoot fireballs at enemies. These power-ups added depth to the gameplay and expanded the possibilities for level exploration and enemy engagement.

The game’s memorable soundtrack, composed by Koji Kondo, is also considered a classic in video game music. The catchy tunes, such as the main “Overworld” theme and the “Underground” theme, are instantly recognizable and have become synonymous with the Mario franchise.

Super Mario Bros. was not only a commercial success, but it also had a profound impact on the gaming industry. It popularized the side-scrolling platformer genre and set the standard for many subsequent games in the genre. The game’s success also established Nintendo and its mascot, Mario, as household names in the gaming industry, leading to the creation of numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across various platforms over the years.

Even today, more than three decades after its original release, Super Mario Bros. continues to be cherished by gamers of all ages for its timeless gameplay, memorable characters, and enduring legacy as one of the greatest retro video games of all time.

The Legend of Zelda (1986)

The Legend of Zelda, released in 1986, is a landmark retro video game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). It is the first installment in the popular and enduring Legend of Zelda franchise, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time.

The Legend of Zelda features a fantasy adventure gameplay where players control a hero named Link, who embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Zelda and thwart the evil plans of Ganon, the primary antagonist. The game is set in the fictional land of Hyrule and is presented from a top-down perspective, with players exploring an open world filled with dungeons, monsters, puzzles, and secrets.

One of the notable aspects of The Legend of Zelda is its non-linear exploration-based gameplay, which was a departure from the linear, level-based structure of many games at the time. Players are free to explore the world of Hyrule at their own pace, discovering hidden caves, dungeons, and secrets, and obtaining various items and power-ups to aid them in their quest. The game features a vast overworld with diverse environments, such as forests, mountains, and deserts, each with its own challenges and puzzles.

The Legend of Zelda is also known for its intricate dungeon design and challenging puzzles. Players must navigate through labyrinthine dungeons, solve puzzles, defeat enemies, and locate hidden treasures, including the iconic Triforce pieces, which are crucial to progressing in the game. The game’s dungeons are filled with traps, secrets, and memorable boss battles, which require critical thinking and strategy to overcome.

The game’s open-ended nature and sense of exploration, combined with its rich gameplay mechanics, immersive world, and memorable characters, have made it a timeless classic. The Legend of Zelda has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across various Nintendo platforms over the years, and it has influenced countless other action-adventure and RPG games. Its iconic music, composed by Koji Kondo, is also highly regarded and has become synonymous with the franchise.

The Legend of Zelda is celebrated for its pioneering gameplay, innovative design, and lasting impact on the video game industry. It is often considered a must-play title for gamers, and its legacy as one of the most influential retro video games of all time continues to be revered by gamers and critics alike.

Pac-Man (1980)

Pac-Man, released in 1980, is a classic retro video game developed and published by Namco (now Bandai Namco Entertainment) for arcade machines. It is one of the most iconic and recognizable video games of all time, often credited with popularizing the maze chase genre and establishing video games as a mainstream form of entertainment.

In Pac-Man, players control a yellow, circular character named Pac-Man who must navigate through a maze filled with dots, while avoiding four colorful ghosts named Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde. The objective is to eat all the dots in the maze and avoid being caught by the ghosts. Players can also consume larger “power pellets” that temporarily enable Pac-Man to chase and eat the ghosts, earning bonus points in the process.

Pac-Man features simple yet addictive gameplay, with players maneuvering Pac-Man through the maze, avoiding the ghosts, and strategically eating dots and power pellets to clear each level. The game’s maze design, with its distinctive corners and pathways, adds an element of strategy as players plan their routes and avoid the ghosts’ pursuit.

Pac-Man also introduced the concept of “fruits” that appear in the maze as bonus items, adding an extra layer of challenge and reward.

The game’s iconic characters, simple yet colorful graphics, and catchy music have made Pac-Man a cultural phenomenon. The game has been released on numerous platforms and has spawned various sequels, spin-offs, merchandise, and adaptations in popular culture.

Pac-Man has also been recognized for its impact on popularizing video games and arcade culture in the 1980s, paving the way for the video game industry to become the global entertainment powerhouse it is today.

Pac-Man’s simple yet addictive gameplay, memorable characters, and cultural significance have earned it a special place in the hearts of gamers and a lasting legacy as one of the most influential retro video games of all time. Its enduring popularity and continued relevance in modern gaming make it a timeless classic that is still enjoyed by players of all ages today.

Tetris (1984)

Tetris, released in 1984, is a classic retro video game developed and published by Alexey Pajitnov, a Soviet computer programmer. It is a puzzle game that has become one of the most iconic and widely recognized video games in the world, known for its addictive gameplay, simple yet challenging mechanics, and enduring appeal.

In Tetris, players are tasked with arranging falling blocks known as “tetrominos” in a horizontal line without any gaps. Once a line is completed, it disappears, and players earn points. The game ends when the stack of tetrominos reaches the top of the screen. As the game progresses, the tetrominos fall faster, requiring quick thinking and reflexes to keep up with the increasing speed.

Tetris features deceptively simple gameplay, with players rotating and positioning tetrominos as they fall to create solid lines and clear space on the screen. The game requires strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and hand-eye coordination to fit the falling pieces into the available space and prevent the stack from reaching the top. Tetris has a timeless quality that makes it easy to pick up and play, yet challenging to master.

Tetris has been released on numerous platforms and has seen countless adaptations, variations, and spin-offs over the years.

It’s addictive gameplay and widespread popularity have made it a cultural phenomenon, with millions of players around the world enjoying the game on various devices and platforms. Tetris has also been recognized for its impact on popularizing puzzle games and its contribution to the video game industry, becoming one of the best-selling and most influential video games of all time.

Tetris’ simple yet addictive gameplay, challenging mechanics, and universal appeal have earned it a special place in the hearts of gamers and a lasting legacy as one of the most iconic retro video games of all time. Its enduring popularity and continued success across generations make it a timeless classic that continues to captivate players to this day.

Super Metroid (1994)

Super Metroid, released in 1994, is a critically acclaimed retro video game developed and published by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It is a side-scrolling action-adventure game and the third installment in the Metroid series, known for its immersive atmosphere, non-linear exploration, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

In Super Metroid, players control the iconic bounty hunter Samus Aran as she navigates the planet Zebes to retrieve a stolen Metroid larva and defeat the evil Space Pirate leader, Mother Brain.

The game features a vast interconnected world filled with hidden paths, secret chambers, and challenging enemies. As players progress, they collect power-ups and upgrades that enhance Samus’ abilities, allowing her to access new areas and defeat tougher foes.

Super Metroid is known for its atmospheric and immersive gameplay, with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, detailed pixel art, and carefully crafted environments that create a sense of isolation and mystery.

The game also introduced innovative mechanics such as the ability to wall-jump, use a grappling hook, and morph into a ball to navigate through tight spaces. These gameplay elements, along with the non-linear exploration and backtracking, have become defining features of the Metroid series.

Super Metroid received critical acclaim for its gameplay, level design, and storytelling. It has been praised for its challenging yet rewarding gameplay, memorable boss battles, and the sense of discovery and exploration it offers to players. The game has also been lauded for its atmospheric and immersive world-building, with a rich narrative conveyed through subtle environmental storytelling and minimal dialogue.

Over the years, Super Metroid has gained a dedicated fan base and is often considered one of the greatest video games of all time. Its influence can be seen in subsequent Metroid games and other similar genre titles, and it has left a lasting impact on the video game industry as a classic retro game that continues to be celebrated for its innovation, gameplay, and atmosphere.

Chrono Trigger (1995)

Chrono Trigger, released in 1995, is a legendary retro video game developed and published by Square Enix for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It is a role-playing game (RPG) that is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time, known for its compelling story, memorable characters, innovative gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals.

In Chrono Trigger, players control a young protagonist named Crono, who embarks on a time-traveling adventure to save the world from an impending catastrophe. Along with a cast of diverse and memorable characters, players journey through different eras in time, from prehistoric times to a post-apocalyptic future, and unravel a complex and engaging story filled with twists and turns.

One of the defining features of Chrono Trigger is its innovative gameplay mechanics. The game introduced the concept of “Active Time Battle” (ATB) system, where characters and enemies take turns based on their speed and the time it takes to execute their actions. Players can also engage in combo attacks, time-traveling, and make decisions that impact the story’s outcome, giving the game a high degree of replayability.

Chrono Trigger also features breathtaking visuals, with detailed pixel art, animated cutscenes, and a memorable soundtrack composed by Yasunori Mitsuda, Nobuo Uematsu, and Noriko Matsueda. The game’s graphics and audio are still highly regarded today, showcasing the artistic and technical prowess of the SNES era.

The game received widespread critical acclaim upon its release and continues to be celebrated by players and critics alike. It has been praised for its engaging story, well-developed characters, innovative gameplay mechanics, and technical achievements. Chrono Trigger is often lauded as a masterpiece of the RPG genre and has been re-released on various platforms, showcasing its enduring popularity among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Chrono Trigger’s impact on the video game industry is profound, inspiring numerous subsequent RPGs and becoming a benchmark for storytelling, gameplay, and artistry in the medium. It is a timeless classic that continues to captivate players with its compelling narrative, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics, solidifying its status as a top retro video game.

Street Fighter II (1991)

Street Fighter II, released in 1991, is a classic retro video game developed and published by Capcom. It is a competitive fighting game that is widely regarded as one of the most influential and popular games in the fighting game genre, known for its iconic characters, fast-paced gameplay, and competitive multiplayer.

In Street Fighter II, players choose from a roster of diverse fighters, each with their unique fighting style and special moves, and engage in one-on-one battles against opponents from around the world. The game features intuitive controls, fluid animations, and a wide range of moves and combos that players can execute to defeat their opponents.

Street Fighter II introduced many of the conventions that have become standard in the fighting game genre, such as special moves, combos, and health bars. It also popularized the concept of competitive multiplayer, allowing players to face off against each other in intense head-to-head matches, both in arcades and on home consoles.

The game’s characters, such as Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li, and Guile, have become iconic and are recognized by gamers worldwide. Street Fighter II has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations, solidifying its status as a franchise that has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry.

Street Fighter II’s impact on the gaming industry and pop culture is immense. It has influenced countless other fighting games and has been a staple of competitive gaming and eSports for decades. The game’s combination of tight gameplay mechanics, memorable characters, and competitive multiplayer has made it a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts and continues to be celebrated as one of the best retro video games of all time.

Mega Man 2 (1988)

Mega Man 2, released in 1988, is a classic retro video game developed and published by Capcom for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). It is the second installment in the iconic Mega Man series, known for its challenging platforming action and innovative gameplay mechanics.

In Mega Man 2, players control the titular character, Mega Man, as he battles against a series of robot masters in order to save the world from the evil Dr. Wily. Mega Man can run, jump, and shoot his arm cannon, but his most unique ability is the ability to defeat and absorb the powers of defeated robot masters, allowing him to gain new abilities and strategies in subsequent levels.

Mega Man 2 features a non-linear level selection system, where players can choose the order in which they tackle the robot master stages. Each stage has its own unique theme and robot master boss, with its own set of challenges and enemies. Once a robot master is defeated, Mega Man gains their special weapon, which can be used against other robot masters with strategic advantage.

One of the defining features of Mega Man 2 is its difficulty level, which is known for being challenging but fair. Players must navigate through treacherous platforming sections, defeat tough enemies, and strategically use their acquired weapons to overcome obstacles and defeat the robot masters. The game’s memorable soundtrack composed by Takashi Tateishi is also considered one of the best in gaming history.

Mega Man 2’s unique blend of challenging platforming, strategic weapon use, and memorable gameplay has made it a beloved retro video game among gamers worldwide. Its success led to the continuation of the Mega Man series with numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations, solidifying its status as a classic retro video game that continues to be celebrated by retro gaming enthusiasts to this day.

Castlevania (1986)

Castlevania, released in 1986, is a classic retro video game developed and published by Konami for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). It is the first installment in the iconic Castlevania series, known for its gothic horror theme, challenging platforming, and action-packed gameplay.

In Castlevania, players control a vampire hunter named Simon Belmont as he ventures through the eerie halls of Count Dracula’s castle to defeat the evil vampire and save humanity. Armed with a whip as his primary weapon, Simon must battle his way through hordes of monsters, traps, and treacherous platforming sections to reach the final confrontation with Count Dracula.

Castlevania features a linear level progression, with each stage of the castle presenting its own unique challenges and enemies. Players must master Simon’s whip techniques and timing to defeat the various monsters, including zombies, bats, skeletons, and other supernatural creatures. Along the way, Simon can also collect power-ups and sub-weapons, such as daggers, crosses, and holy water, which provide additional means to dispatch enemies and overcome obstacles.

One of the defining features of Castlevania is its challenging difficulty level, with precise platforming, tough enemies, and limited lives and continues. Players must carefully navigate the castle, memorize enemy patterns, and manage their resources to progress through the game. The game’s hauntingly atmospheric soundtrack composed by Kinuyo Yamashita is also considered one of its standout features, adding to its overall immersive experience.

Castlevania’s combination of gothic horror theme, challenging gameplay, and memorable soundtrack has made it a classic retro video game that has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations over the years. Its influence on the action-platforming genre and its enduring popularity among retro gaming enthusiasts continue to be celebrated, making it a timeless gem in the history of video games.

Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)

Sonic the Hedgehog, released in 1991, is a popular retro video game developed and published by Sega for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive console. It is the first installment in the long-running Sonic the Hedgehog series, known for its fast-paced platforming, colorful graphics, and memorable characters.

In Sonic the Hedgehog, players control the titular character, Sonic, a blue anthropomorphic hedgehog with the ability to run at incredibly high speeds. Sonic’s mission is to stop the evil Dr. Robotnik, also known as Eggman, from capturing and enslaving animals in his quest for world domination.

Players must guide Sonic through various levels, known as “zones,” each filled with unique obstacles, enemies, and loops, as he collects rings and frees animals trapped in capsules along the way.

Sonic’s speed is the key gameplay mechanic in the game, allowing players to dash through levels, loop around ramps, and defeat enemies by jumping on them or using his spin attack. The game’s level design encourages players to find the fastest routes, explore alternate paths, and collect as many rings as possible, which serve as Sonic’s health and currency. Players must also be careful not to lose their rings or fall into hazards, as doing so will result in losing a life.

Sonic the Hedgehog’s vibrant graphics, catchy soundtrack composed by Masato Nakamura, and innovative “blast processing” technology that allowed for smooth and fast gameplay were all groundbreaking elements that helped establish Sonic as a flagship character for Sega and a mascot for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive console.

The game’s mix of speed, platforming, and memorable characters, including Sonic’s sidekick Tails, has made it a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts and a hallmark of the 16-bit era of gaming.

Sonic the Hedgehog has since spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across multiple platforms, and the character of Sonic has become one of the most iconic and recognizable figures in the world of video games. The game’s legacy and impact on the platforming genre continue to be celebrated, making it a timeless gem in the history of retro video games.

Wrapping Up

These are just a few examples of the many top retro video games that have had a lasting impact on the gaming industry and continue to be cherished by players of all ages. The nostalgia and gameplay of these classics have made them enduring favorites among gamers and continue to be celebrated asthe pinnacle of retro gaming.

Whether it’s the simple yet addictive gameplay of Pac-Man, the iconic adventures of Mario and Zelda, the puzzle-solving challenges of Tetris, the exploration and atmosphere of Super Metroid, the time-traveling epicness of Chrono Trigger, the competitive spirit of Street Fighter II, the challenging platforming of Mega Man 2, the gothic horror-themed Castlevania, or the lightning-fast speed of Sonic the Hedgehog, these retro video games have left a lasting impression on gamers and continue to be appreciated for their contributions to the gaming world.

Playing these retro video games for the first time can be a joyous experience. It’s a step back in time to a simpler era of gaming, where pixel art, chiptune music, and imaginative gameplay were at the forefront. The excitement of discovering these classic games, perhaps for the first time or after a long absence, can evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder.

The joy of playing retro video games lies in their timeless appeal. Despite the advancements in graphics, sound, and gameplay in modern games, retro games have a charm and character that continue to captivate players. They offer a unique blend of challenge, creativity, and fun that can be hard to find in today’s gaming landscape.

One of the joys of playing retro video games for the first time is appreciating their historical significance. These games have shaped the gaming industry and influenced countless modern titles. They are a testament to the creativity and innovation of their developers, who pushed the boundaries of technology and gameplay during their time.

Another joy of playing retro video games is discovering the unique gameplay mechanics and design choices that set them apart. From the precise platforming of Mario and Mega Man, to the puzzle-solving of Tetris and the exploration of Metroid, each game offers its own distinct gameplay experience that can be a refreshing change from modern games.

Moreover, the nostalgic aesthetics of retro video games can evoke warm memories of the past, reminding players of their childhood or a bygone era of gaming. The pixel art, limited color palette, and catchy chiptune music can transport players to a simpler time and evoke a sense of nostalgia that adds to the joy of playing these games.

Playing retro video games for the first time also offers the opportunity to discover hidden gems that may have been overlooked during their initial release. With a vast library of retro games spanning different genres and platforms, there are always hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered. Unearthing these underrated games and experiencing the joy of their gameplay, story, and characters can be a delightful surprise for gamers.

In conclusion, the joy of playing retro video games for the first time lies in their timeless appeal, historical significance, unique gameplay mechanics, nostalgic aesthetics, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems. These classics have left an indelible mark on the gaming world and continue to bring joy to gamers of all ages. So, dust off that old console or fire up an emulator, and embark on a journey to experience the joy of playing retro video games for the first time.