When trying to come up with this list, it is incredibly difficult as there are so many games that can fit into this category quite well. Just remember, this list isn’t my top five. I’m simply stating five retro video games that absolutely hold up well in today’s world. I mean, the word “retro” itself and the definition is always up for debate. The fact that the Nintendo Wii is considered a retro console still haunts me. I am going to talk about five games that I believe have timeless mechanics, defined their eras, have a polished design, and artistic visual styles that bypass the limitations of their original hardware and even entertain today’s modern gamers. So, here we goooo!
Super Mario World (1990, SNES)
Super Mario World refined 2D platforming. The game’s non-linear world map, secret exits, and Yoshi mechanic add replay value and exploration that modern platformers still emulate. Its colorful presentation and memorable level themes are charming rather than dated, and the learning curve is gentle enough for newcomers while offering depth for completionists. This is still one of those games you can pick up at anytime and have a super enjoyable experience.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time (1991, arcade/SNES)
Turtles in Time is one of the best beat ’em ups ever made, blending fast-paced cooperative action with memorable sprite work and responsive controls. Who doesn’t love the iconic side scrolling beat um ups with our favorite four green brothers? Each stage is packed with creative enemy design, awesome music, varied attack patterns, and satisfying multiplayer brawling that still has you excited for that old school couch co-op game play.
Tetris (various, 1984 onward)
Tetris is the ultimate timeless puzzle game. Modern versions expand on the formula, but the original mechanics remain perfect for both short sessions and marathon sessions. Tetris teaches pattern recognition, planning, and spatial intuition in a way that’s universally accessible. Whether you first played it on an original Game Boy, a modern phone, or a contemporary console, the game’s design is as compelling now as ever.
Doom (1993, PC)
Doom practically invented the modern first-person shooter and still offers intense, pure action that holds up thanks to its level design, pacing, and emergent gameplay. Its emphasis on movement, weapon variety, and enemy encounters creates a relentless momentum that feels satisfying even by today’s picky gamer standards. Mods, community maps, and source ports have kept Doom fresh for decades, allowing it to run on modern hardware and be reimagined in countless ways. Although its visuals show their age, the gameplay is still fast, visceral, and strategically varied, which makes the game not only iconic, but still a game that can be picked up and loved by anyone.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991, SNES)
A Link to the Past is frequently cited as one of the greatest action-adventure games and with good reason. Although it was a complete challenge for me when I was younger. Its tight dungeon design, inventive puzzles, and fluid combat established a template many Zelda games still follow. The game balances exploration and storytelling with a satisfying progression of tools and abilities that open new paths in a carefully beautifully crafted world. Whenever I ask people to cite their top Zelda games of all time, this game is easily most peoples top three.
What did you think about my list? All five share core design qualities that transcend improved graphics, precise controls, thoughtful level design, and mechanics that encourage exploration or mastery. They’re easy to pick up but offer depth for players who want it. Whether you’re revisiting them for nostalgia or trying them for the first time, these classics demonstrate that great game design is timeless and can hold up on any day.
Written by QueenG22
