A Look Back: Which 90s Games Still Hold Up Today?
The sands of time are constantly shifting in the gaming world. Just recently, we saw the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii U officially join the ranks of “retro consoles.” While this might sound like a harsh reminder of how quickly things move, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to revisit some absolute classics. Many of these older machines still house incredible games that, surprisingly, hold their own even by today’s demanding standards.
This reflection on gaming’s past has been brewing for a while, and while the recent “retro” designations are interesting, this piece will focus on an even earlier era. We’re delving into the golden age of the 1990s, looking at titles that have truly stood the test of time, specifically those found on platforms leading up to and including the PlayStation 2, original Xbox, and GameCube.
When assessing longevity, graphics and gameplay are paramount. While some older games are undeniably hobbled by dated visuals, the true test lies in whether the core mechanics and the joy they offered still resonate. It’s a delicate balance, and not every title from the 90s has aged gracefully.
After much deliberation, a list of around a dozen contenders was narrowed down to a select five. This wasn’t an easy feat, as personal preference plays a huge role in what we consider timeless. So, in no particular order, here are five games from the 90s that, in this reader’s opinion, are still brilliant today:
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
This Super Nintendo masterpiece is a prime example of a game that has aged exceptionally well. Its charming, almost cartoonish graphics remain vibrant and appealing, even when viewed on modern high-definition televisions. Beyond the visuals, the gameplay and intricate puzzle-solving are simply sublime. It’s a testament to its quality that the most common fan complaint often revolves around something as trivial as the protagonist’s hair colour.
Released over three decades ago, A Link to the Past feels remarkably fresh. The iconic soundtrack set a benchmark for future Zelda titles, and many of the game’s innovative ideas were groundbreaking for their time and remain genius today. The fact that it hasn’t received a full-blown remake might, in itself, be a nod to the perfection of the original. Many consider the top-down 2D Zelda games to have peaked with this very title, cementing its status as an unforgettable adventure.
- Graphics: Enduringly charming 2D sprite work that holds up remarkably well on modern displays.
- Gameplay: Tight controls, brilliant dungeon design, and satisfying puzzle-solving that remains engaging.
- Sound: A memorable and influential soundtrack that is still beloved by fans.
- Legacy: Widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time and a pinnacle of the 2D Zelda formula.
While A Link to the Past stands tall, there are a few other titles from that era that deserve honourable mentions for their potential to age well. Games like Heavy Rain, Uncharted (referring to the earlier entries, perhaps Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune), and Luigi’s Mansion possess qualities that suggest they too will be enjoyed by future generations of gamers.
The world of gaming is diverse, and what one person finds timeless, another might not. This list is a personal perspective, and it would be fascinating to hear about other 90s games that readers believe have truly stood the test of time.
This reader feature reflects the personal views of the contributor and does not necessarily represent the opinions of the publication or its editorial team.
