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10 Retro Games That Are Still Masterpieces Today

A nostalgic collection of classic SNES and N64 controllers for an article about retro games.

Graphics may age, but brilliant game design is timeless. In an era of 100-gigabyte downloads and live-service models, there's a special magic in returning to the classics. These are ten retro games that have stood the test of time and are just as incredible to play today as they were upon release.

  1. Chrono Trigger (SNES): Often cited as the greatest RPG ever made, its engaging story, loveable characters, and innovative combat system are still perfect.
  2. Super Metroid (SNES): The masterclass in atmosphere and exploration. Its non-linear world design laid the blueprint for an entire genre.
  3. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64): The game that defined 3D action-adventure. Its lock-on targeting system, world design, and epic scale are still influential today.
  4. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (PlayStation): A beautiful, sprawling 2D action-RPG with deep exploration and a satisfying combat loop. A true work of art.
  5. Street Fighter II Turbo (Arcade/SNES): The king of 2D fighters. Its balanced roster and tight controls make it endlessly replayable.
  6. Half-Life 2 (PC): A revolutionary first-person shooter that blended storytelling, physics puzzles, and intense action seamlessly.
  7. Final Fantasy VII (PlayStation): An epic JRPG with a story that captivated a generation. Its characters and world are unforgettable.
  8. Super Mario 64 (N64): It wrote the rulebook for 3D platforming. The freedom of movement and creative level design are still a joy.
  9. Metal Gear Solid (PlayStation): A cinematic masterpiece that defined the stealth-action genre. Its story and innovative boss battles are legendary.
  10. Tetris (Various): The perfect video game. Simple to learn, impossible to master, and utterly addictive. It will never get old.