Whether you're entering retro gaming for the first time or rediscovering classics, these twenty titles are essential.
Each has stood the test of time and offers a unique slice of gaming history.
1–5: Nintendo Classics
- Super Metroid — near-perfect design and unforgettable atmosphere
- Ocarina of Time — still a masterpiece of 3D adventure
- Metroid Fusion — tight gameplay and great storytelling
- F-Zero GX — blistering speed and legendary difficulty
- Pokémon Emerald — timeless RPG with endless replay value
6–10: PlayStation Legends
- Final Fantasy VII — emotional writing + iconic world
- Metal Gear Solid — groundbreaking cinematic storytelling
- Gran Turismo 2 — pure racing perfection
- Castlevania: Symphony of the Night — the standard for Metroidvanias
- Silent Hill — atmospheric horror done right
11–14: Sega Highlights
- Sonic 3 & Knuckles — polished platforming peak
- Skies of Arcadia — memorable JRPG with charm
- Panzer Dragoon Orta — visually stunning
- Jet Set Radio — stylish, unique, and timeless
15–17: PC / DOS Classics
- Doom — the shooter that changed everything
- Quake — lightning-fast multiplayer pioneer
- StarCraft — arguably the most balanced RTS ever made
18–20: Arcade Greats
- Metal Slug — detailed sprites, pure fun
- Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike — the peak of 2D fighting
- The Simpsons Arcade — perfect co-op nostalgia
What about you?
Which game would you put in your personal top 20?
