As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it's easy to get caught up in the latest releases and forget about the classics that started it all. However, retro games have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and many gamers are now seeking out older titles to add to their collections. Gamestop, a leading retailer of new and used games, has a vast selection of retro games that are waiting to be discovered. Here are 10 retro games to buy at Gamestop right now.
Why Retro Games Matter
Retro games offer a unique gaming experience that is often absent in modern titles. They provide a nostalgic trip back to the early days of gaming, when graphics were simpler, and gameplay was more straightforward. Retro games also offer a glimpse into the evolution of the gaming industry, showcasing how far we've come and how game design has changed over the years. Moreover, retro games can be a great way to experience classic gameplay mechanics that have influenced modern games.
1. Super Mario Bros. (NES, 1985)
The original Super Mario Bros. is a must-have for any retro gaming collection. This iconic platformer revolutionized the genre and set the standard for future Mario games. With its tight gameplay, charming graphics, and catchy music, Super Mario Bros. remains one of the best retro games of all time.
Why You Should Buy It
- A classic platformer that still holds up today
- Challenging gameplay that requires precision and timing
- A nostalgic trip back to the early days of gaming
2. The Legend of Zelda (NES, 1986)
The Legend of Zelda is another iconic title that has stood the test of time. This action-adventure game introduced players to the vast world of Hyrule and the legendary hero Link. With its open-world design, puzzle-solving, and innovative gameplay mechanics, The Legend of Zelda remains a must-play for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Why You Should Buy It
- A pioneering game that defined the action-adventure genre
- Challenging gameplay that requires exploration and puzzle-solving
- A rich and immersive world that sets the standard for future Zelda games
3. Sonic the Hedgehog (Genesis, 1991)
Sonic the Hedgehog is a classic platformer that still holds up today. This fast-paced game introduced players to the blue blur Sonic and his quest to stop the evil Dr. Eggman. With its smooth gameplay, catchy music, and colorful graphics, Sonic the Hedgehog remains one of the best retro games of all time.
Why You Should Buy It
- A fast-paced platformer that requires quick reflexes and timing
- Charming graphics and catchy music that will keep you entertained
- A classic game that still holds up today
4. Castlevania (NES, 1986)
Castlevania is a classic action-platformer that has become a staple of the retro gaming scene. This challenging game introduced players to the gothic world of Transylvania and the Belmont family's quest to defeat Dracula. With its tight gameplay, atmospheric soundtrack, and creepy graphics, Castlevania remains a must-play for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Why You Should Buy It
- A challenging game that requires precision and timing
- Atmospheric soundtrack and creepy graphics that set the mood
- A classic game that has influenced many modern action-platformers
5. Street Fighter II (SNES, 1992)
Street Fighter II is a classic fighting game that revolutionized the genre. This iconic game introduced players to a cast of colorful characters, each with their unique fighting styles and special moves. With its tight gameplay, memorable characters, and catchy music, Street Fighter II remains one of the best retro games of all time.
Why You Should Buy It
- A classic fighting game that still holds up today
- Memorable characters and special moves that add to the gameplay
- A pioneering game that defined the fighting genre
6. Final Fantasy VII (PS1, 1997)
Final Fantasy VII is a classic RPG that has become a staple of the retro gaming scene. This epic game introduced players to the world of Gaia and the quest to save the planet from the evil Shinra Corporation. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Final Fantasy VII remains one of the best retro games of all time.
Why You Should Buy It
- A classic RPG with an engaging story and memorable characters
- Innovative gameplay mechanics that add to the gameplay
- A pioneering game that defined the RPG genre
7. Donkey Kong (NES, 1981)
Donkey Kong is a classic arcade game that introduced players to the iconic character Jumpman (later renamed Mario). This challenging game requires players to rescue a damsel in distress from the clutches of the titular ape. With its tight gameplay, simple graphics, and catchy music, Donkey Kong remains a must-play for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Why You Should Buy It
- A classic arcade game that still holds up today
- Challenging gameplay that requires precision and timing
- A pioneering game that introduced the world to Mario
8. Chrono Trigger (SNES, 1995)
Chrono Trigger is a classic RPG that has become a staple of the retro gaming scene. This epic game introduced players to a unique battle system and an engaging story that spans multiple time periods. With its innovative gameplay mechanics, memorable characters, and catchy music, Chrono Trigger remains one of the best retro games of all time.
Why You Should Buy It
- A classic RPG with an engaging story and memorable characters
- Innovative gameplay mechanics that add to the gameplay
- A pioneering game that defined the RPG genre
9. Mega Man 2 (NES, 1989)
Mega Man 2 is a classic action-platformer that has become a staple of the retro gaming scene. This challenging game introduced players to the blue bomber Mega Man and his quest to stop the evil Dr. Wily. With its tight gameplay, catchy music, and colorful graphics, Mega Man 2 remains one of the best retro games of all time.
Why You Should Buy It
- A classic action-platformer that still holds up today
- Challenging gameplay that requires precision and timing
- A pioneering game that defined the action-platformer genre
10. Pokémon Red and Green (GB, 1996)
Pokémon Red and Green is a classic RPG that introduced players to the world of Pokémon and the quest to become a Pokémon Master. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Pokémon Red and Green remains one of the best retro games of all time.
Why You Should Buy It
- A classic RPG with an engaging story and memorable characters
- Innovative gameplay mechanics that add to the gameplay
- A pioneering game that defined the RPG genre
If you're looking to expand your retro gaming collection, these 10 games are a great place to start. With their iconic gameplay, memorable characters, and catchy music, they are sure to provide hours of entertainment for retro gaming enthusiasts.
What is the best way to play retro games?
+The best way to play retro games is on the original hardware, but this can be expensive and hard to find. Alternatively, you can play retro games on modern consoles or PCs using emulation or remakes.
Are retro games still fun to play?
+Yes, retro games can still be fun to play, even if they may not have the same level of graphics or sound quality as modern games. Many retro games have a unique charm and challenge that can be enjoyable for players of all ages.
Can I still find retro games in stores?
+Yes, many retro games can still be found in stores, especially at Gamestop or other used game retailers. You can also find retro games online through marketplaces like eBay or Amazon.