I was born in the early 90s, a time full of video game magic. As I grew up, I played games from different eras. From Nintendo classics to today’s cutting-edge titles, I’ve had a lot of fun.
My team at Retro Dodo and I have tested many games. We asked our audience to pick their favorite retro games. Over 150 Retro Dodo readers shared their top choices. Their votes, along with our research, helped us make this list of the best retro games.
Key Takeaways
- Classic video games that have stood the test of time and left an indelible mark on gaming history
- Iconic titles that captured the hearts and imaginations of generations of gamers
- Groundbreaking gameplay, innovative mechanics, and unforgettable experiences that shaped the industry
- Retro gaming nostalgia and the enduring influence of these timeless classics
- Insights from real-world data and community feedback to uncover the most celebrated retro games
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
An Epic Adventure That Defined a Generation
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a true masterpiece. It was first released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64. It changed the open-world genre and captured players with its amazing exploration of Hyrule.
As the heroic Link, players go on a quest. They aim to uncover the secrets of the powerful Triforce. They also try to save the kingdom from the evil Ganondorf.
Ocarina of Time is special because of its storytelling, gameplay, and visuals. It introduced Z-targeting, a feature that changed combat. Players could focus on specific enemies.
Exploring Hyrule was a treat. The world was vast and detailed. From the peaceful Kokiri Forest to the treacherous Death Mountain, every place was unique.
Whether played on the original N64 or the 3DS version, Ocarina of Time is a masterpiece. It has had a huge impact on the gaming world. It’s the only game with a near-perfect 99% score on Metacritic.
“The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time upped the ante compared to other popular games like Super Mario World. It was a game-changer that truly defined a generation.”
| Game | Release Year | Metacritic Score |
|---|---|---|
| The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time | 1998 | 99% |
| Final Fantasy VII | 1997 | 94% |
| The Wind Waker | 2002 | 96% |
| Breath of the Wild | 2017 | 97% |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | 2018 | 97% |
Super Mario World
In the early 90s, Super Mario World hit the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and later the Game Boy Advance. This classic 2D side-scrolling game has sold over 20 million copies worldwide. It’s considered one of the greatest games ever made.
Players could choose to control Mario or his brother Luigi. The game introduced new moves like the Cape Feather for flying and the P-Balloon for floating. Yoshi, Mario’s dinosaur friend, brought new ways to explore and solve puzzles.
The game’s overworld map was filled with secrets and hidden paths. Its bright colors, beautiful design, and creative puzzles made it unforgettable. It’s a true retro classic that still charms players today.
“Super Mario World is a masterpiece that defined a generation of gaming. Its perfect balance of challenging platforming, exploration, and charming characters made it an instant classic that continues to captivate players to this day.”
Pokémon Red and Blue
The Pokémon franchise has won the hearts of many since Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue came out in 1996. These games started a series that became very popular. They were played on the Game Boy and later on other devices.
The main goal was to catch every Pokémon and build a strong team. Players had to trade with friends and use the right moves. This made the game fun and rewarding.
Pokémon Red and Blue also had a great story. Players loved exploring and finding new Pokémon. The mysteries of the Pokémon world were exciting to solve.
| Pokémon Red and Blue Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Pokémon Games in the Core Series | 34 across 9 generations |
| Release Year | 1996 |
| Number of Pokémon to Catch | Fascinating range, including Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Jigglypuff, and Snorlax |
The impact of Pokémon Red and Blue is huge. They started a global gaming phenomenon. They are now among the most loved video game classics of all time.
Super Mario 64
The Nintendo 64 era brought a big change with Super Mario 64, a 3D platformer that changed gaming forever. Released in 1996, it showed the N64’s power, bringing a new 3D Super Mario world to life.
Mario could now roam, run, jump, and explore Peach’s Castle freely. The goal was to find 70 of the 120 power stars to break Bowser’s curse. This new gameplay, with familiar characters and surprises, made Super Mario 64 unforgettable.
“Super Mario 64 showcased the next big step in graphical advancements and immersed gamers in a new 3D Super Mario World that blew people’s minds.”
The game’s success is clear in its sales. Super Mario 64 sold over 11 million copies worldwide, the most for the Nintendo 64. This made it a classic that defined 3D platformers.
From exploring Peach’s Castle to battling Bowser, Super Mario 64 has many memorable moments. Its 3D gameplay, engaging world, and lasting appeal still inspire and delight today. It’s a true masterpiece of the Nintendo 64 era.
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Sonic the Hedgehog is a legendary gaming icon, the face of Sega and a major influence in gaming. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 took the formula to new heights. Its stages have influenced every Sonic game since.
Released in 1992, this game is the ultimate Sonic experience. You play as Sonic and his new friend, Tails, to stop Dr. Robotnik. You’ll save animals and collect rings at incredible speeds.
This game was a huge hit for Sega Genesis, boosting Sega’s market share to over 50%. Critics loved it, giving it perfect scores for its design and music.
The game introduced the super spin dash, a key move for Sonic. Later games like Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Sonic & Knuckles improved graphics and added new features.
Today, Sonic is still a favorite in gaming, with Sonic the Hedgehog 2 being a highlight of 2D side-scrolling games.
Top 10 Classic Video Games That Defined a Generation
“The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time” and “Sonic the Hedgehog 2” are just a few games that made history. They not only drew in players but also changed the gaming world. These games showed what was possible in the virtual world.
Our team and over 150 Retro Dodo readers picked the most influential games. Classics like “Super Mario 64″ and “Pokémon Red and Blue” have left a lasting impact. They have shaped gaming for many generations.
Get ready for a trip down memory lane. We’re counting down the top 10 classic video games that defined a generation. These games still bring back memories and inspire gamers today.
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
- Super Mario World
- Pokémon Red and Blue
- Super Mario 64
- Sonic the Hedgehog 2
- GoldenEye 007
- Tetris
- Pac-Man
- The Oregon Trail
- Pong
These games didn’t just entertain; they changed the gaming world. “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time” and “Sonic the Hedgehog 2” are just a few examples. Each game has earned its place in gaming history.
| Game Title | Release Year | Genre | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time | 1998 | Action-Adventure | Received a 99% rating on Metacritic, making it the top-rated game in the list of retro games. |
| Super Mario World | 1990 | Platform | Sold over 20,000,000 copies worldwide, establishing itself as one of the greatest video games developed. |
| Pokémon Red and Blue | 1996, 1998 | Role-Playing | A major success that shaped childhood experiences for many gamers. |
| Super Mario 64 | 1996 | Platform | Remains popular to this day, being remade and ported to modern consoles. |
| Sonic the Hedgehog 2 | 1992 | Platformer | A significant side-scrolling adventure game that influenced subsequent Sonic titles. |
| GoldenEye 007 | 1997 | First-Person Shooter | Captured the hearts of many gamers with its deathmatches and engaging gameplay. |
| Tetris | 1984 | Puzzle | Remains iconic and influential, laying the groundwork for modern puzzle games like Candy Crush. |
| Pac-Man | 1980 | Maze | A legendary game that continues to resonate with players across different generations. |
| The Oregon Trail | 1971 | Strategy | An early classic that set the stage for the strategy genre. |
| Pong | 1972 | Sports | An Atari Inc. classic that laid the foundations for modern sports games. |
These games have not only entertained but also left a lasting impact on the gaming world. They have inspired many developers and shaped the future of gaming. From timeless classics to groundbreaking innovations, these games have truly defined a generation of gaming.
GoldenEye 007
The Nintendo 64 classic, GoldenEye 007, captured a generation with its single-player and multiplayer modes. It was set in the James Bond film world, letting players be the legendary spy. This first-person shooter took players into the world of espionage.
The game’s multiplayer was groundbreaking. It introduced split-screen deathmatches that became legendary. Friends would gather for intense battles in levels like the Facility. Playing as Bond characters like Xenia and RCP90 made these battles even more exciting.
Released in 1997, GoldenEye 007 became a landmark in first-person shooters. It raised the bar for console multiplayer. Its lasting popularity shows the GoldenEye and James Bond series’ timeless appeal.
“GoldenEye 007 set a new benchmark for multiplayer experiences that few titles have matched since.”
GoldenEye 007 is still loved today, from its single-player to multiplayer. Its impact and memories make it a true gaming icon.
Tetris
Tetris is a timeless video game that has become an icon. It first came out in 1984 for the Soviet Elektronika 60 computer. Since then, it has sold over 520 million copies, making it the top-selling video game of all time.
The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay has made it a cultural hit. It has inspired many spin-offs, like Candy Crush and Tetris 99. The game’s music and the thrill of clearing lines have left a lasting impact on gaming history.
Tetris appeals to everyone, thanks to its easy-to-play mechanics. It offers a sense of achievement as players clear lines and reach new levels. It’s loved by both casual and hardcore gamers. Its ability to work on many platforms, from the NES to smartphones, has helped it stay popular.
In the world of video games, Tetris shows the lasting charm of classic puzzle games. Its simple yet engaging gameplay, along with its cultural importance, have made it a beloved and influential game.
“Tetris is not just a game. It’s a way of life.” – Alexey Pajitnov, the creator of Tetris
| Game | Copies Sold (in millions) |
|---|---|
| Tetris | 520 |
| Minecraft | over 300 |
| Grand Theft Auto V | over 200 |
| Wii Sports | 82.9 |
| PUBG | 75 |
The popularity of Tetris shows the lasting charm of classic puzzle games. Its timeless gameplay, iconic music, and cultural impact have made it a true gaming legend. Tetris has inspired and defined the gaming industry for decades.
Pac-Man
Pac-Man is a true gaming classic. He’s famous from the Pixels movie and the ’80s arcades. His simple maze game has made him a symbol of arcade games.
Ms. Pac-Man, his partner, has also become a legend. Together, they’ve appeared on many products and even in a 3D game. Their fame shows Pac-Man’s lasting impact on gaming.
The ’70s and ’80s were the golden years for arcade games. By 1981, the U.S. arcade industry made over $5 billion. Pac-Man was a big hit, earning over $1 billion by then.
“Pac-Man has cemented his place as a true cultural icon, transcending the bounds of gaming and becoming a beloved symbol of the classic arcade era.”
Even as arcades faded, Pac-Man’s fame grew. He’s been in Pixels and many other products. This maze-munching hero has become a cultural icon, loved by many.
Conclusion
This list of the top 10 classic video games shows the most influential and iconic titles in gaming history. From The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time to Sonic the Hedgehog 2, these games have shaped the industry. They have captivated generations of players with their groundbreaking gameplay and immersive stories.
Our community and team voted to find the games that truly defined a generation. These timeless classics show the power of video games as a medium for entertainment and innovation. They remind us of the impact these games have had on the industry and players worldwide.
This list celebrates the most influential and beloved titles in gaming history. It shows the cutting-edge visuals and immersive gameplay of these top 10 classic video games. As we look to the future, we wonder what new timeless classics and generational impacts the gaming industry will bring.
