Retro gaming systems and handhelds that let you recreate your favorite childhood experiences are already very common.
But because of how strong nostalgia is, some of the video games you have nice memories of may not be all that fantastic today.
Thankfully, however, quite a few retro games have stood the test of time which is why we have compiled a list of some of the best ones still enjoyable to play even decades after release.
The list features some great titles you are sure to enjoy, in no particular order!
- Pokemon Red
It all comes down to the mechanics of this classic. Each game in the series mostly included scouting out the different towns, catching Pokémon, and then taking down the various gym leaders.
Many fans of the series have continued to play each subsequent installment because of the game’s straightforward yet compelling loop.
It is still remarkably entertaining and riveting for a game that is close to 20 years old.
The way the game introduces new places and gameplay elements to you gradually gives you the impression that you are embarking on an epic adventure to become the finest Pokemon trainer this wonderful world has ever seen!
- Contra
If players who grew up with this little gem back in the day still remember is just how difficult it really was.
As it turns out, even as an adult today, Contra is still quite challenging but not so much that it becomes frustrating.
Instead, after a learning curve, the gameplay becomes smooth and fun once again, just like in the ’80s!
Contra is a short game, but its gameplay variety, challenging difficulty, power ups, and most importantly, the opportunity to play co-op, make it an iconic retro shooter worth playing once more.
- Sonic the Hedgehog
When Sonic the Hedgehog was first released, it was a game unlike any other.
When compared to the majority of other games of the era, Sonic was able to race across a level at a much faster pace.
Naturally, the Sega Genesis’ blast processing was to thank for the faster horizontal movement in Sonic games. Back then, it was thrilling to watch Sonic move through a stage so quickly.
In addition to that, the engaging music contributed greatly to how much fun this game was.
All that being said, Sonic the Hedgehog is still enjoyable to play today thanks to its vibrant levels, imaginative character designs, and upbeat music.
- Aladdin
The Aladdin game, was equally dramatic, funny and magical, just like its animated movie counterpart.
Prior to the debut of the game, many licensed games were, at best, merely decent and, at worst, utter garbage.
Aladdin proved that licensed games could be entertaining while remaining faithful to their original sources of inspiration.
The game’s astounding visuals and soundtrack, which appear and feel like they were taken directly from the animated feature, elevate it to vintage brilliance even if the game’s basic gameplay mechanics are nothing we haven’t seen before.
All in all, if you enjoy games with precise controls, gorgeous visuals, and captivating music, this one is worth playing again as well.
- Tetris
Back when the Nintendo Game Boy came out, it wasn’t the most cutting-edge gaming device available and lagged behind its competitors in most respects.
What made it a huge success was, surprisingly enough, Tetris!
This puzzle game was included with the Game Boy when it was first launched and turned out to be so addictive that it single-handedly boosted Game Boy sales.
Tetris is still one of the most well-known and played puzzle games in existence.
The most recent version of the game, Tetris Effect, is expected to be released this year.
The game has undergone various revisions but its core mechanics have mostly remained constant throughout time.
In conclusion, the original version is still very much relevant today.