Blast from the Gaming Past: 10 Retro Video Games That Still Rock Our Controllers

Are you ready to power up your nostalgia and take a pixelated trip down memory lane? As gamers, we've leveled up over the years, witnessing the evolution of graphics, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling. But sometimes, it's good to hit the pause button and rewind to the days of cartridge-blowing and cheat code-memorizing. These 10 retro video games have managed to withstand the test of time, teleporting us back to an era where the sound of dial-up internet was music to our ears and a high score was worth bragging about.

From iconic platformers that have us jumping for joy, to legendary RPGs that had us exploring every nook and cranny of a pixelated world, these classics are a testament to the timeless nature of great game design. So, dust off your old consoles or boot up an emulator, and let's warp back to a simpler time in gaming history. Just remember to keep an extra life handy!

Posted by Nimrod Aldea

1
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991)

We could have gone for Ocarina of Time or The Wind Waker or any number of other 'Zelda' games, however, We decided to go for this timeless entry in the Zelda series because it introduced many of the elements that fans have come to know and love, such as the parallel worlds and the iconic Master Sword. With its captivating story, tight controls, and colorful graphics, A Link to the Past remains a fan favorite and a must-play for anyone interested in the history of the franchise.

Via Nintendo
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2
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992)

The thrill of dashing through loops and collecting rings at breakneck speeds was only amplified in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. With the introduction of Tails, the enhanced graphics, and tighter controls, this sequel became a staple of our gaming memories. It still holds up as an adrenaline-pumping experience for gamers today.

Via Sega
3
Street Fighter II (1991)

We can still recall the countless friendly rivalries sparked by Street Fighter II, the game that defined the fighting genre. The smooth controls, diverse character roster, and iconic special moves made for endless hours of intense, competitive fun. To this day, it remains a go-to choice for challenging friends to a match.

Via Capcom
4
Super Mario Bros. (1985, NES)

Who could forget the thrill of leaping through the Mushroom Kingdom as the iconic Mario, stomping Goombas and rescuing Princess Peach? We'll always cherish the exhilarating feeling of finding a secret warp pipe or discovering the invincibility of the Star Power-up for the first time.

Via Nintendo
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5
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (1997)

Delving into the intricate levels of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, we were captivated by its blend of action-platforming and RPG elements. The unforgettable boss battles and engrossing character progression made every playthrough feel fresh and exciting. This masterpiece helped define the "Metroidvania" genre and remains a must-play for action-RPG enthusiasts.

Via Konami
6
Super Metroid (1994)

Exploring the atmospheric world of Super Metroid was a groundbreaking experience. We recall the sense of discovery and the joy of finding new power-ups that enhanced our abilities. The non-linear exploration and the game's lasting influence on the "Metroidvania" genre ensure that it remains a beloved classic.

Via Nintendo
7
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002)

The neon-soaked streets of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City transported us to the vibrant world of the 1980s. We reveled in the game's satirical take on the era's culture and excess, while losing ourselves in the immersive sandbox environment. The memorable characters and engrossing open-world gameplay ensure that Vice City still holds up as a retro classic today. (just steer clear of the remake)

Via Rockstar Games
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8
Tetris (1984)

Yes, we said Tetris. It's still one of the greatest puzzle games ever made. We remember spending countless hours perfecting our block-stacking skills in Tetris. The satisfaction of clearing lines and the ever-increasing speed kept us coming back for more. Simplicity was the key to its success, and Tetris will forever be a cherished part of our gaming nostalgia. If you're looking for a more modern take on the game, we recommend Tetris Effect from 2018. You can even play it in VR!

Via Nintendo
9
Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2003)

We were spellbound by the fluid, acrobatic platforming and the innovative time-rewinding mechanics of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. Navigating through the beautifully crafted palace and solving clever puzzles left a lasting impression on our gaming memories. The captivating story, charming characters, and polished gameplay make this action-adventure title a timeless gem.

Via Ubisoft
10
Doom (1993)

The heart-pounding action and relentless onslaught of demons in Doom captured our imaginations and kept us glued to our screens. We fondly remember navigating the labyrinthine levels, armed with an arsenal of iconic weapons, and facing off against the hordes of Hell. Doom's fast-paced gameplay and groundbreaking visuals continue to make it a beloved classic among FPS fans. We can proudly say we never actually stopped playing Doom and it is still installed on every computer we own.

Via id Software