1. Pac-Man (1980)
Pac-Man is one of the most iconic video games of all time, and even today it’s still as playable as ever. As the titular character, you must eat all the dots on each level while avoiding the four ghosts that inhabit the game’s mazes. You can eat the power pellets to temporarily turn the ghosts blue, allowing you to eat them for extra points. The game is deceptively simple and can be surprisingly difficult to master.
2. Donkey Kong (1981)
Donkey Kong is an arcade classic and the first game to feature Mario as the protagonist. In it, you must navigate four increasingly difficult levels, each filled with obstacles and enemies. You must avoid barrels, springs, and fireballs while trying to reach the top of the stage to rescue the kidnapped Princess Peach. With its challenging platforming and charming characters, Donkey Kong remains one of the most beloved retro video games.
3. Space Invaders (1978)
Space Invaders is a classic arcade game that put the genre of shoot ‘em up on the map. As the player, you must use your laser cannon to destroy wave after wave of alien invaders while avoiding their shots. The game introduced the concept of increasing difficulty as the waves progressed, and it also popularized the use of high scores to compare with friends. Despite its age, Space Invaders is still incredibly fun to play.
4. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
Super Mario Bros. was the breakthrough game for Nintendo and Mario. As the title character, you must travel through eight worlds, each filled with enemies and platforming challenges. You must collect coins, power-ups, and stars to reach the end of each level and rescue the Princess. This game introduced the world to the now classic Mario mechanics, and it remains one of the most beloved retro video games of all time.
5. Tetris (1984)
Tetris is a puzzle classic that has been around for over 35 years. In it, you must fit various shapes together in order to clear lines and score points. The game is incredibly simple yet incredibly addictive, and it remains a favorite among puzzle fans. With its iconic music and simple yet challenging gameplay, Tetris is a true classic that needs to be experienced by all retro game fans.