The 90’s is called the golden era of the gaming industry. In just a short period of ten years, many classic games were released, which are still considered some of the best games of all time. A majority of them were formed into franchises, which led to games being made with the same characters to date. If you were a 90’s gamer, I’m pretty sure those epic games still cross your mind. The best 90’s games turned out to be benchmarks for future game developers.
Some of the 90’s video games are so addictive that you can’t get tired of playing. If you haven’t tried anyone of these games, you’ve missed an epic adventure. Take a look at our picks of the 90’s video games you should definitely give a try.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (1993) – Game Boy
When was the last time you saw a black and white TV? Forget the TV; this game was a black and white video game which was released for Game Boy in 1993. This game didn’t fail to meet its expectations and turned out to be a great game. It won many awards and was considered one of the main reasons for the rise in the sales of Game Boy.
The Legend of Zelda edition remained the bestseller for 90 months straight after its release. Though some criticized it because it wasn’t colored, it never affected the sales as fans loved the storyline and gameplay. However, Nintendo did release an update and re-introduced it the game in color, after Game Boy Color was launched. It was artistic!
2. Gran Turismo 2 (1999) – PlayStation
The first Gran Turismo set a benchmark in the world of racing video games, which was broken by none other than Gran Turismo 2. Still considered the best edition in the series, this racing game was full of adventurous races. No one could have ever expected to play a game with such depth during the 90’s. GT2 featured almost 600 different cars – a number never heard of before in the racing games category. Many competitors tried to create a similar game, but failed miserably, as they didn’t come even close to the class of GT2. This 90’s video game is one you can’t miss, especially if you are a diehard fan of car racing games.
3. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992) – Sega
One of my personal favorites, this fast-paced game is full of challenging obstacles and levels, which are extremely fun to play. With Sonic’s new moves and his sidekick, Tales, this game turned out to be better than Sonic the Hedgehog 1. In the game, Sonic runs through a forest, casino, and factory. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 became the bestselling game for Sega in no time. Embark on an epic adventure and help Sonic stop Dr Robotnik from world domination in this fun-filled 90’s video game.
4. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (1996) – Super Nintendo
This Super Mario edition turned the Mario universe upside down. Instead of hopping and running, this game features role-playing and adventure. Similar to other RPG games, Mario recruits others and forms a team to help him take down Exor the Sword. The surprising part is that Mario’s longtime enemy Bowser is on the good side, helping him in the quest to eliminate Exor. This 90’s video game is a fun-filled RPG developed to entertain audiences of all ages. Its success can be measured by the fact that Nintendo still looks up to it for future RPG games.
5. Resident Evil 2 (1997) – PlayStation
Resident Evil was a PlayStation original that broke all barriers, creating an ultimate classic. However, in 1997, Resident Evil 2 came out with enhanced gameplay. With more places to explore, enemies to fight, and bosses to defeat, this horror game flick was indeed a masterpiece. Resident Evil 2 is a must play game for all those wanting to experience a classic tale of the 90’s.
6. Super Mario 64 (1996) – Nintendo 64
I remember spending hours playing this fun and adventurous game. Super Mario 64 is one of the first 3D games of that time. The game is staged in Princess Peach’s castle after Bowser kidnaps her. The responsibility of rescuing her and defeating Bowser is on the shoulders of a plumber wearing a red cap. No one could have imagined playing a game with such graphics at that time, but Nintendo made it possible. The colorful adventure and musical storyline was a treat to enjoy.
These six games were all classics, which you can still play if you have the right console. Video games in the 90’s were nothing like what we have today, but they were the pioneers in the gaming world introducing concepts and characters that are still alive in the hearts of gamers.
Which game have you enjoyed playing the most? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
