Classic Console Games Buying Guide

Contents[Hide]

These are the truly timeless games that tug at the hearts of nostalgic gamers everywhere. After a decade (or more!) has passed, these are still awesome games that can be played for hours, proving that graphics and innovative controllers aren't everything. Some of these games have been updated and released on newer consoles, but most of them are not quite the same unless played on a classic console. If you are lucky enough to still have an Atari ,Nitendo , or Sega Genesis , then these games are a must have. 

Nitendo Entertainment System

NES

Metroid 

Blast your way through a hidden passage-laden alien hotzone. Though there have been many sequels, the original still stands strong.

The Legend of Zelda 

This innovative exploration-based quest title for NES will always be known as one of the finest games ever created. You'll spend hours searching out the land of Hyrule as the sword-wielding, green-suited hero Link.

Rad Racer 

This racing game features some of the best NES music of all time!

Super Mario Bros. 

It's Mario! Of course this is a classic, as the first thing that comes to most people's minds when they hear Nitendo is Mario.

Super Nitendo

Super NES

Sim City 

Live the life of the politician through this highly addictive game. Build your own metropolis as a mayor/city planner. Raise taxes and pray for re-election.

Super Mario Kart 

One of the first 3-D racing experiences, and still one of the best. This game started the revolution of Mario Kart, which is now an extensive and well-loved series.

Street Fighter II 

Kids would play all night and argue all day at school about which fighter was the best. This game still stands as one of the best fighting games out there, although it's graphics are obviously not up to modern standards.

Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars 

Mario, Luigi, Bowser and the Princess all team up for a sprawling voyage across the mushroom kingdom. You'll love fighting the bad guys and exploring this super fun adventure game.

Atari 2600

Atari Games!

Night Driver 

The Atari 2600 hit breakneck speeds with this influential racer. Take the wheel on a dark track and steer to victory.

Pitfall 

Though frustrating at times, this game is a must for the classic gamer. You'll love this side-scrolling jungle adventure game.

Joust 

What other game can you fight others while riding on an ostrich? This game is quirky and truly fun.

Breakout 

This game is like pong or brick. You control a paddle at the bottom of the screen and try to break all the bricks with the ball that flies around the screen. A classic answer to boredom.

Sega Genesis

Hear that creepy Sega voice again!

Mortal Kombat 

In the early 1990s, fighting games were seemingly all anyone ever talked about. That's probably because the gameplay was so darn spectacular. The game's comically disgusting finishing moves were thrilling, and a four-armed boss character called Goro still gives people nightmares.

Sonic the Hedgehog 

Sonic is the classic good guy with sweet moves. Though we are lucky enough to see some Sonic on the Wii and Playstation 2, there's still nothing quite like playing the original and battling Dr. Robotnik.

Phantasy Star IV 

This 1994 Sega Genesis entry is still tagged as one of the great RPGs ever made by genre enthusiasts. Magic takes center stage as the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance. Look out for the gorgeous storyboard-driven visuals that highlight the story.

Altered Beast 

Ever feel like transforming into a wolf? Altered Beast lets you do that, and then some. The Sega Genesis actioner lets you transform into various creatures to fulfill the warrior's noble quest.