Video games have come a long way since their inception, with new technologies and graphics elevating the industry to unprecedented heights. However, even in this age of cutting-edge gameplay, some classic titles remain timeless. These games have shaped the way we experience video games today and continue to offer enjoyment, whether you’re revisiting them or playing them for the first time.
In this article, we’ll explore five classic video games that everyone should experience at least once. These games are revered for their innovation, influence, and lasting appeal.
1. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
The game that truly put Nintendo on the map, Super Mario Bros. is arguably the most influential platformer of all time. Released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), this game set the standard for 2D side-scrolling platformers, introducing gamers to the adventures of Mario and his brother Luigi as they journeyed to rescue Princess Toadstool from the clutches of Bowser.
Why You Should Play It:
- Innovative Gameplay: Super Mario Bros. revolutionized platforming with its tight controls, imaginative level design, and secrets hidden throughout the stages.
- Enduring Legacy: This game not only defined a genre but also laid the foundation for the vast Mario franchise that is still going strong today.
- Cultural Impact: The Super Mario franchise has become a staple of video game culture, with Mario being one of the most recognizable characters in history.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is often cited as one of the greatest video games ever made. Released on the Nintendo 64, this action-adventure title combined a compelling narrative, intricate puzzles, and a vast open world to create an unforgettable experience. Players take on the role of Link as he attempts to stop Ganondorf, the evil sorcerer, from obtaining the power of the Triforce and conquering the land of Hyrule.
Why You Should Play It:
- Innovative Game Design: Ocarina of Time introduced the concept of a fully realized 3D open world, setting a standard for future games in the genre.
- Emotional Storytelling: The game’s narrative is one of the most emotionally resonant in gaming, with players forming a strong connection to Link’s journey.
- Influential: The game’s mechanics, such as the lock-on targeting system, have been adopted by many subsequent titles and are now considered industry standards.
3. Tetris (1984)
One of the most recognizable and universally loved games of all time, Tetris is a simple yet addictive puzzle game that has captured the hearts of players across generations. Created by Russian programmer Alexey Pajitnov, Tetris involves rotating and positioning falling blocks to form complete lines, which then disappear. The game ends when the screen fills up with blocks.
Why You Should Play It:
- Timeless Gameplay: Despite its simplicity, Tetris offers an incredibly addictive experience that is easy to pick up but difficult to master.
- Global Impact: It’s one of the best-selling video games in history and has been ported to nearly every gaming platform, from consoles to mobile phones.
- Cultural Icon: Tetris has become ingrained in pop culture and continues to inspire new iterations and competitive gaming events.
Learn More About Tetris on Wikipedia
4. Pac-Man (1980)
One of the earliest video game icons, Pac-Man became an instant sensation upon its release in 1980. Developed by Namco, this arcade classic tasked players with navigating a maze, eating dots, and avoiding colorful ghosts. The game was revolutionary for its time, featuring a non-violent, maze-chase format that was different from the shoot-’em-up games of the era.
Why You Should Play It:
- Iconic Gameplay: Pac-Man introduced a unique style of gameplay focused on strategy and pattern recognition, rather than reflex-based action.
- Historical Significance: As one of the most successful arcade games of all time, Pac-Man was a significant milestone in the evolution of video games.
- Cultural Legacy: The game’s distinctive characters and theme music are still recognizable today, and Pac-Man remains a beloved symbol of early video gaming.
5. Final Fantasy VII (1997)
Final Fantasy VII is a landmark RPG that introduced many players to the genre and remains one of the most influential titles in gaming history. Released on the Sony PlayStation, this turn-based RPG follows Cloud Strife and his band of rebels as they fight to save the planet from the evil corporation Shinra and the legendary villain Sephiroth. We study the best games for multiplayer online games, more details in our article.
Why You Should Play It:
- Epic Storytelling: Final Fantasy VII offers one of the most captivating and emotionally charged narratives in gaming, with unforgettable characters, plot twists, and an iconic villain.
- Immersive World-Building: The game features an expansive world with diverse environments, towns, and dungeons, making it feel like a true adventure.
- Influence on the RPG Genre: Final Fantasy VII helped popularize Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) outside of Japan, influencing countless titles in the years that followed.
While there are many fantastic games out there, these five classics hold a special place in the history of video gaming. Each of them introduced new mechanics, told compelling stories, and influenced countless other games that followed. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of video games, playing these classics is a must. They not only provide a glimpse into the past but also offer timeless entertainment that continues to resonate with players today.