Video games have been a dominant form of entertainment for decades, captivating millions of players around the world. From simple arcade titles to complex console and PC games, each generation has been marked by iconic games that not only entertained but also shaped the gaming industry as we know it. Some of these classics not only provided hours of joy but influenced countless future titles and set benchmarks for game design, storytelling, and technology. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 must-play classic games that defined a generation, whether you’re a seasoned gamer looking to reminisce or a newcomer eager to discover gaming history.
1. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
Released on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Mario Bros. is often hailed as the game that saved the video game industry after the crash of 1983. Mario, the iconic plumber, became the face of gaming and remains one of the most recognizable characters globally. The game’s simple yet challenging platforming mechanics, bright visuals, and catchy music set a new standard for video games.
The level design in Super Mario Bros. was revolutionary, introducing power-ups like the Super Mushroom and Fire Flower, which enhanced gameplay. It also presented a nonlinear approach with hidden warp zones and secrets that encouraged exploration. Its influence can be seen in nearly every platformer that followed, making it an essential game for anyone interested in the history of gaming.
2. The Legend of Zelda (1986)
Another title from Nintendo, The Legend of Zelda on the NES, took gaming in a new direction by combining action, exploration, and puzzle-solving. It was a massive leap forward in terms of what video games could achieve in terms of scope and complexity. Players controlled Link on his quest to rescue Princess Zelda, navigating through dungeons, solving puzzles, and battling enemies.
The open-world concept, where players could explore freely rather than follow a linear path, was groundbreaking. It laid the foundation for future action-adventure games and introduced staples like dungeon-crawling, item management, and intricate world-building. Even today, The Legend of Zelda remains a touchstone for game designers and players alike, influencing modern titles like The Elder Scrolls and Breath of the Wild.
3. Tetris (1984)
Few games can claim the simplicity and widespread appeal of Tetris. Created by Russian game designer Alexey Pajitnov, Tetris has become one of the most popular puzzle games in the world. It gained massive popularity with its release on the Game Boy in 1989, helping to make the handheld device a massive success.
The concept is simple: players manipulate falling blocks (tetrominoes) to form complete lines, which disappear, scoring points. But this simplicity hides a game that requires sharp reflexes, spatial awareness, and strategy. The game’s addictive quality has made it a cultural icon, and it continues to captivate players in various iterations and platforms even today.
4. Street Fighter II (1991)
Street Fighter II, developed by Capcom, defined the fighting game genre and became a cultural phenomenon in the early 1990s. Its release in arcades marked a turning point in competitive gaming, and it popularized multiplayer battles where players could face off against each other in head-to-head combat.
The game introduced a cast of iconic characters, each with unique fighting styles, special moves, and distinct personalities. Street Fighter II‘s impact on fighting games cannot be overstated, as it laid the groundwork for future titles like Mortal Kombat and Tekken. Its legacy lives on in the form of annual tournaments and a dedicated fanbase that continues to enjoy the series to this day.
5. Final Fantasy VII (1997)
When Final Fantasy VII was released on the PlayStation, it redefined what RPGs (role-playing games) could be. With its epic storyline, cutting-edge 3D graphics, and memorable characters, it introduced many Western players to the Japanese RPG genre. The game’s protagonist, Cloud Strife, and antagonist, Sephiroth, have since become some of the most well-known characters in gaming history.
Final Fantasy VII‘s narrative depth, combined with its innovative combat system, intricate world-building, and emotional storytelling, set a new standard for RPGs. The game also popularized the use of pre-rendered backgrounds and full-motion video cutscenes, pushing the limits of what video games could visually achieve at the time. Its influence can be seen in countless RPGs that followed, making it a must-play for any fan of the genre.
6. Doom (1993)
Few games have had as much of an impact on the first-person shooter (FPS) genre as Doom. Developed by id Software, Doom not only pioneered 3D graphics and multiplayer deathmatches, but it also introduced the concept of modding, where players could create their own levels and content.
The game’s fast-paced action, combined with its intense atmosphere and cutting-edge technology, made it an instant classic. Players fought through hordes of demons, exploring complex levels filled with hidden secrets and powerful weapons. The game’s success paved the way for future FPS titles like Quake, Half-Life, and Halo. Doom remains a beloved classic, with its influence still felt in modern shooters.
7. The Sims (2000)
Released by Maxis and EA, The Sims allowed players to create and manage virtual people, known as Sims, in a simulated world. While the game initially seemed simple—building houses, maintaining relationships, and fulfilling basic needs—it opened the door to a new type of gameplay experience that focused on creativity, storytelling, and life simulation.
Unlike most games at the time, The Sims was not about winning or losing but about experimentation and personal expression. It became a cultural phenomenon, appealing to a broad audience that included non-gamers. Its legacy continues with numerous sequels and expansions, making it one of the best-selling PC game franchises of all time.
8. Pokémon Red and Blue (1996)
The Pokémon series has become a cultural juggernaut, but it all started with Pokémon Red and Blue on the Game Boy. Players took on the role of a Pokémon trainer, capturing, battling, and trading creatures in an effort to become the Pokémon Champion. The concept of “Gotta catch ’em all” became a global sensation, and the game’s social aspects—like trading and battling Pokémon with friends—revolutionized multiplayer gaming.
The game’s blend of exploration, strategy, and collection was instantly addictive, appealing to both kids and adults alike. With a series that has continued to evolve with each new generation of consoles and handhelds, Pokémon Red and Blue laid the foundation for one of the most successful gaming franchises in history.
9. Half-Life (1998)
Valve’s Half-Life redefined the FPS genre with its emphasis on storytelling and immersion. Unlike many shooters of the time, which focused purely on action, Half-Life told a gripping, interactive story while maintaining intense gameplay. Players took on the role of Gordon Freeman, a scientist battling through a secret underground facility after an experiment goes horribly wrong.
Half-Life’s success was due to its combination of innovative level design, immersive atmosphere, and smart AI. It also introduced modding tools that allowed fans to create new content, leading to the birth of popular mods like Counter-Strike. The game’s influence can be seen in the evolution of narrative-driven shooters like Bioshock and Call of Duty.
10. World of Warcraft (2004)
Last but not least, World of Warcraft (WoW) revolutionized the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) genre. Released by Blizzard Entertainment, it became a social and cultural phenomenon, bringing millions of players together in a shared online world. Players could explore vast environments, complete quests, and engage in large-scale battles with or against other players.
What made World of Warcraft special was its sense of community and the sheer depth of its world. It encouraged teamwork, strategy, and social interaction, helping to create lifelong friendships and rivalries. With multiple expansions and millions of active players, World of Warcraft remains a dominant force in the MMORPG landscape.
Conclusion
These 10 games are more than just entertainment—they are milestones in the history of gaming. They shaped genres, introduced new gameplay mechanics, and created cultural phenomena that continue to resonate with players today. Whether you’re revisiting these classics or experiencing them for the first time, they are essential titles for any gamer seeking to understand how the medium has evolved over the decades. Each game on this list has, in its own way, defined a generation, influencing both players and the industry at large.