As children of the 90s, millennials have a unique connection to the video games that defined the decade. From classic platformers to revolutionary 3D games, the 90s saw the birth of many gaming franchises that continue to be celebrated today. In this blog, we will explore the top games of the 90s that have stood the test of time and remain beloved by millennials.
So, whether you are a seasoned gamer looking to relive the glory days or a younger player looking to discover the classics, this blog is for you. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and explore the games that captured the hearts of a generation.
1. Super Mario Run
Super Mario Run is a side-scrolling platform game developed and published by Nintendo. Based on the iconic Super Mario franchise, this game features the beloved plumber in an all-new adventure that can be played with just one hand. The game incorporates traditional Mario elements like jumping over enemies and coin-collecting but with a unique twist.
Its popularity stems from its nostalgic charm and easy-to-play nature, appealing to both veteran and novice Mario enthusiasts. With colorful graphics, engaging gameplay, and intuitive controls, Super Mario Run is a must-play for anyone looking to relive the classic days of Mario.
2. Sonic CD Classic
Developed by SEGA and released in 1993, Sonic CD Classic is a beloved platform game that stars the iconic blue hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog. The game’s storyline follows Sonic as he travels through time to thwart the evil schemes of Dr. Eggman and save the world. The game introduced new gameplay elements such as time travel and the ability to choose different paths throughout the levels, adding more depth to the classic Sonic formula.
With its catchy soundtrack, vibrant graphics, and fast-paced gameplay, Sonic CD remains a beloved game among fans of the franchise and gamers of all ages. It is an excellent option to relive the nostalgia of the classic Sonic games on the go and is a must-try for anyone who loves the blue hedgehog.
3. Tetris®
Tetris is a classic puzzle game developed by Alexey Pajitnov and published by various companies for multiple platforms. The main objective of the game is to use tetrominoes, which are falling geometric shapes, to create complete horizontal lines without any gaps. The objective is to clear the playfield by removing as many lines as possible before the stack reaches the top.
Tetris became an instant hit due to its simplicity, addictive gameplay, and ability to appeal to all ages. Even after several decades, Tetris remains one of the most popular games from the 90s and is still enjoyed by millennials and gamers of all generations worldwide.
4. Crash Bandicoot: On the Run!
Crash Bandicoot: On the Run! is a racing game developed by King in collaboration with Activision, based on the popular Crash Bandicoot franchise. The game features the beloved marsupial and his friends in a new adventure to stop the evil Dr. Neo Cortex from taking over the multiverse.
Players can run, jump, spin, and slide through various levels, collecting ingredients to craft weapons and battling classic bosses from the series. With colorful graphics, engaging gameplay, and nostalgic elements from the original Crash Bandicoot games, On the Run! is a fantastic way for millennials to relive their childhood memories while enjoying a new twist on a classic game.
5. Pac-Man
Pac-Man is an iconic arcade game developed by Namco. The game’s objective is to maneuver a yellow, circular character named Pac-Man through a maze. This, while consuming all the small white pellets and avoiding four colored ghosts. Pac-Man can eat larger pellets, known as power pellets, which allow him to temporarily turn the tables on the ghosts and earn bonus points.
Pac-Man’s simple yet addictive gameplay, along with its catchy music and memorable characters, made it a cultural phenomenon in the 80s and 90s. Even today, this timeless 90s classic continues to captivate millennials and players of all ages.
6. Rayman Legends
Rayman Legends is a critically acclaimed 2D platform game published by Ubisoft and developed by Ubisoft Montpellier. The game follows Rayman, a limbless hero, and his friends in a colorful adventure to save the world from evil forces. The game’s levels are filled with obstacles, enemies, and hidden secrets. Players must use their platforming skills and abilities to progress through each level.
Rayman Legends features stunning hand-drawn graphics, a catchy soundtrack, and challenging gameplay that pays homage to classic platformers from the 90s. With its mix of nostalgia and modern elements, Rayman Legends is a must-play for millennials who grew up playing platform games and for anyone who loves a fun and challenging adventure.
7. Angry Birds Classic
Angry Birds Classic is a puzzle game developed by Rovio Entertainment that became a global phenomenon. The game’s objective is to launch birds from a slingshot to destroy structures and defeat green pigs that have stolen the birds’ eggs.
Angry Birds Classic features simple yet addictive gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy sound effects that became instantly recognizable. As a result of the game’s success, it spawned several sequels, spin-offs, merchandise, and even a movie adaptation. Angry Birds Classic’s popularity among millennials is a testament to its enduring appeal and its status as one of the most popular games from the 90s and 2000s.
8. Doodle Jump
Lima Sky developed the action platformer game, Doodle Jump. In this game, players control a character named “Doodle” who collects power-ups and bonuses while jumping across platforms and avoiding obstacles and enemies.
The game’s simple gameplay and charming hand-drawn graphics made it an instant hit among casual gamers. It quickly became one of the most popular video games of all time. Doodle Jump’s success spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs. And it remains a favorite among millennials who grew up playing video games in the 2010s.
9. Temple Run
Temple Run is an endless running game developed by Imangi Studios. The game’s objective is to control an explorer character who is being chased by demonic monkeys while running through an ancient temple. To stay alive for as long as possible, the player needs to gather coins and power-ups while dodging obstacles.
Temple Run’s simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with its stunning graphics and immersive soundtrack, made it one of the most popular platformer games played by the millennials. The game’s success led to numerous sequels, spin-offs, and merchandise. Up until now, it remains a beloved classic among millennials who grew up playing platformer games.
10. Subway Surfers
Subway Surfers is an action-packed platformer game, created by Kiloo and SYBO Games, where players guide a character who’s trying to evade a grumpy inspector and his dog. The gameplay involves navigating through train tracks and avoiding obstacles. Players collect coins and power-ups along the way, which can be used to unlock characters and upgrades.
Subway Surfers’ vibrant graphics, catchy soundtrack, and simple gameplay mechanics made it a hit among casual gamers. This concoction of features quickly made it one of the most popular video games of all time. The game’s success led to numerous spin-offs and merchandise. Today, it remains a favorite among millennials who grew up playing platformer games in the early 2000s.
The Enduring Influence of Video Games from the 90s
In conclusion, the 90s were a pivotal decade for video games. The continuing celebration of these video games that defined the era is proof of their lasting impact. From classic platformers to revolutionary 3D games, the 90s saw the birth of many gaming franchises that remain beloved by millennials. Whether it’s reliving the glory days or discovering the classics, these games have stood the test of time and captured the hearts of a generation.
