The video game industry is worth over $43 billion and counting thanks to blockbusters like Gears 5, Marvel’s Spider-Man, and Super Mario Odyssey.
There are tons of great games to check out, but don’t forget how far we’ve come. Take the 90s, for instance. The 90s were an incredible time for video gaming thanks to the introduction of 3D graphics, new consoles, and all sorts of other innovations.
And with those innovations came some fantastic games. Here are some of our favorite 90s video games that are sure to give you some nostalgia.
Super Mario 64
It’s impossible to ignore how much of a game-changer (no pun intended) Super Mario 64 was at the time. The game granted players the freedom to explore a vast universe as everyone’s favorite plumber, all in 3D for the first time.
In many respects, there still isn’t anything like it and it’s one of our favorite games of all time.
If you’ve never played it, check out the fantastic Nintendo DS remake which added multiplayer, new characters, and casino minigames that are good enough to give Double Bubble a run for its money.
DOOM
DOOM certainly wasn’t the first first-person shooter, but it is perhaps the most influential.
At the time, DOOM was one of the most graphically intensive games, utilizing high-end lighting techniques and multiple perspectives to flesh out the hellscape of an overrun Mars. And in case you’re wondering, yes, the soundtrack holds up.
Half-Life
Speaking of influential first-person shooters, we’d be remiss if we didn’t talk about Valve’s magnum opus, Half-Life.
Players assume the role of Gordon Freeman, a silent and capable scientist who happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. All hell breaks loose and a portal to a separate dimension opens in the Black Mesa facility, unleashing chaos.
What’s fascinating about Half-Life is that it’s as much a platformer as a shooter. Particularly in the latter half of the game, Half-Life demands pinpoint precision from its players.
With excellent voice acting, a memorable story, and some of the downright creepiest enemies, Half-Life deserves every bit of praise it gets.
Metal Gear Solid
Spies, nuclear missiles, and political intrigue. You’ve seen it all before, right? Well, not like this you haven’t.
MGS is a more movie than an action game. Sure, its stealth-driven gameplay is fantastic. But the heart of MGS lies in its cutscenes, and boy does this game have a lot of them.
It would take you four hours just to watch all of the game’s cutscenes! We promise you won’t mind. Metal Gear Solid’s storyline is so bonkers that you won’t be able to stop watching.
Goldeneye 007
Oddly enough, Goldeneye may as well not have a story at all. It’s all about the multiplayer!
To date, Goldeneye’s multiplayer is some of the silliest, most chaotic fun you could ask for. Next time you and your buddies want to test your mettle, try a game of slaps only.
And for the love of all that’s good, don’t cheat and choose Oddjob! Even the game’s developers think it’s a cheap move.
Snag a Surge and Enjoy These 90s Video Games
We could go on and on about the best 90s video games, but sadly we’re out of time. If you’ve somehow missed out on these great games, find an emulator or head to your local retro game store and check these treasures out!
And when you’re done, be sure to come back for more great content!
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