Retro gaming has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many gamers looking to experience the classic titles from their youth. Fortunately, many of these games are available on PC, either through official releases or through emulation.
Best Retro Games for PC
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best retro games for PC that you can play today.
- Super Mario Bros.
Super Mario Bros. is one of the most iconic games of all time and remains a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast. Originally released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985, the game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC. The game follows Mario as he tries to rescue Princess Toadstool from the clutches of the evil Bowser, and features classic platforming gameplay that remains as addictive today as it was in the 1980s.
- The Legend of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda is another classic game that remains a must-play for any retro gaming fan. Originally released for the NES in 1986, the game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC. The game follows Link as he embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Ganon. The game features classic action-adventure gameplay and is widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time.
- Doom
Doom is a classic first-person shooter that was originally released for PC in 1993. The game is widely regarded as one of the most influential games of all time, and its fast-paced gameplay and iconic weapons remain as thrilling today as they were in the 1990s. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms and has spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs.
- Street Fighter II
Street Fighter II is a classic fighting game that was originally released for arcades in 1991. The game was later ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming fan. The game features classic one-on-one fighting gameplay and a cast of memorable characters, including Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li.
- Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog is a classic platformer that was originally released for the Sega Genesis in 1991. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast. The game features fast-paced platforming gameplay and a memorable cast of characters, including Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles.
- Mega Man
Mega Man is a classic action-platformer that was originally released for the NES in 1987. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming fan. The game features classic platforming gameplay and a unique twist on the traditional boss battles, where defeating a boss allows Mega Man to gain their abilities.
- Tetris
Tetris is a classic puzzle game that was originally released for the Game Boy in 1989. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast. The game features addictive puzzle gameplay and has been credited with popularizing the puzzle genre in gaming.
- Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger is a classic role-playing game that was originally released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1995. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming fan. The game features an epic time-traveling adventure, memorable characters, and multiple endings depending on the player’s choices.
- Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VII is a classic role-playing game that was originally released for the PlayStation in 1997. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast. The game features an epic story, memorable characters, and groundbreaking graphics for its time. The game has also recently received a remake, but the original remains a classic that’s worth playing.
- Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid is a classic stealth-action game that was originally released for the PlayStation in 1998. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming fan. The game features a gripping story, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay that remains influential to this day.
- Contra
Contra is a classic run-and-gun shooter that was originally released for the NES in 1988. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast. The game features intense shooting gameplay, co-op play, and a memorable soundtrack that’s sure to get your blood pumping.
- Castlevania
Castlevania is a classic action-platformer that was originally released for the NES in 1986. The game has since been ported to a wide range of platforms, including the PC, and remains a must-play for any retro gaming fan. The game features classic platforming gameplay, challenging boss battles, and a gothic horror setting that’s sure to leave an impression.
Best Retro Games (ROMs)
- Wii U
- Nintendo Wii
- GameCube
- Nintendo 64
- Super Nintendo
- Nintendo NES
- Nintendo Virtual Boy
- Nintendo Famicom Disk System
- Nintendo Pokemon Mini
- Dreamcast
- Saturn
- Genesis
- Master System
- Game Gear
- Sega 32X
- Pico
- SG1000
- Visual Memory System
- Super Control Station
- Amiga 500
- Computer
- 3DO
- PC-Engine
- Wonderswan
- MSX
- Amiga
- DOS
- BBC Micro
- ZX Spectrum
- Tiger Game Com
- SuFami Turbo
- Intellivision
- Z-Machine Infocom
- Magnavox Odyssey 2
- Tandy Color Computer
- GamePark GP32
- Emerson Arcadia 2001
- Sinclair ZX81
- Philips Videopac
- Elektronika BK
- Epoch Super Cassette Vision
- Hartung Game Master
- Entex Adventure Vision
- Luxor ABC 800
- Watara Supervision
- GCE Vectrex
- Dragon Data Dragon
- RCA Studio II
- Camputers Lynx
- Pel Varazdin Orao
- Mattel Aquarius
- Tangerine Oric
- Robotron Z1013
- Thomson MO5
- Funtech Super Acan
- Miles Gordon Sam Coupe
- Bally Pro Arcade Astrocade
- Kaypro II
- Wang VS
- Galaksija
- Interact Family Computer
- Fairchild Channel F
- Memotech MTX512
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many excellent retro games available for PC, and the ones listed above are just a small selection of the classics that are still worth playing today. Whether you’re looking for classic platformers, action games, or puzzle games, there’s a retro title out there that’s sure to scratch that nostalgic itch. So fire up your emulator or dust off your old PC games and get ready to experience the classics all over again.