Introduction
Retro consoles have influenced entire generations thanks to games that remain essential references in video games to this day. Whether you're a collector or a retro gaming enthusiast, here's a selection of the must-have games to own on each iconic retro console from the 80s and 90s. 🎮✨
Cult games by retro console
📌 Atari 2600 (1977, but iconic in the 80s)
Features : Highly pixelated 8-bit graphics, simplistic yet addictive gameplay.
Must-have games :
- Pac-Man 🟡: One of the first big video game hits.
- Space Invaders 👾: A classic shoot 'em up that made history.
- Pitfall! 🌴: The ancestor of platform games.
📌 Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) – 1985
Features : 8-bit, cartridge games, worldwide success.
Must-have games :
- Super Mario Bros. 🍄: The game that popularized the platform genre.
- The Legend of Zelda 🏹: An epic adventure that laid the foundations of the action-RPG.
- Metroid 👽: A revolutionary exploration and action game.
- Mega Man 2 🤖: One of the best games in the Mega Man franchise.
- Castlevania 🦇: A unique gothic atmosphere and challenging gameplay.
📌 Sega Master System – 1986
Features : 8-bit, direct competitor to the NES.
Must-have games :
- Alex Kidd in Miracle World 🏯: Sega's mascot before Sonic.
- Wonder Boy III: The Dragon's Trap 🐉: A highly acclaimed action platformer.
- Sonic the Hedgehog 🦔: The very first Sonic on Master System!
📌 Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) – 1990
Features : 16-bit, colorful graphics, legendary soundtrack.
Must-have games :
- Super Mario World 🌎: Considered one of the best platform games of all time.
- The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past 🏹: A cult action RPG adventure.
- Super Metroid 👽: A masterpiece of exploration gaming.
- Chrono Trigger ⏳: One of the best RPGs in history.
- Donkey Kong Country 🍌: Graphic revolution and fun gameplay.
📌 Sega Mega Drive (Genesis) – 1990
Features : 16-bit, fast processor, more "mature" games.
Must-have games :
- Sonic the Hedgehog 2 🦔: One of the best games in the Sonic saga.
- Streets of Rage 2 🏙️: A cult beat'em up with a memorable soundtrack.
- Gunstar Heroes 🔫: A frenetic and colorful run & gun.
- Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master 🥷: A super-smooth ninja action game.
- Earthworm Jim 🪱: A crazy action game with unique humor.
📌 Sony PlayStation (PS1) – 1994
Features : 32-bit, CD-ROM release, 3D graphics.
Must-have games :
- Final Fantasy VII 🌪️: One of the most influential RPGs in history.
- Resident Evil 🧟: The game that defined survival horror.
- Metal Gear Solid 🕵️♂️: A narrative and stealth masterpiece.
- Gran Turismo 🏎️: The first ultra-realistic racing game.
- Crash Bandicoot 🦊: PlayStation's iconic mascot.
📌 Nintendo 64 – 1996
Features : 64-bit, controller with analog stick, 3D support.
Must-have games :
- Super Mario 64 🏰: The game that revolutionized 3D platforming.
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 🎼: One of the greatest games of all time.
- GoldenEye 007 🔫: The cult multiplayer FPS.
- Mario Kart 64 🏎️: A classic multiplayer game.
- Super Smash Bros. 🥊: The beginning of an essential franchise.
Conclusion
Every retro console has its video game gems that have influenced generations of gamers. Whether you're a fan of RPGs, platformers, FPS, or action games, there's bound to be a title that matches your passion for retro gaming!
🔥 And you, what are your favorite retro games? Share your selection in the comments!
