The Best Video Game To Go On a Nostalgia Trip: Choose Yours

by Ashas Bukhari

The Best Video Game To Go On a Nostalgia Trip: Choose Yours

14 Jul 2024

Media we consume as our younger selves will always have a special place in our hearts. Maybe because things always just seem better to children? Or maybe it was just better. For me, this holds true for a video game, movies, or cartoons. I grew up watching Batman: The Animated Series (BATS), Samurai Jack and Godzilla: The Series, and to be fair, BATS has been rated as the second-best animated show of all time, losing out only to The Simpsons. This author will, however, throw hands to prove that it is the first best, but I digress. I think, biases and all, that media and entertainment products were just better before than they are now. So, without further ado, here are some games to help you go on a nostalgia trip, biases and all. Let’s dive into video game nostalgia!

20. Paperboy

Developer: Atari Games

Publisher: Midway Games

Release Year: 1985

Original Platform(s): Arcade

Once a novel idea, paper routes used to be a common source of income for enterprising youths. Much like in this classic arcade video game, being a paperboy involved cycling down the street, and delivering papers while dodging obstacles like runaway lawnmowers, rabid dogs, and even the Grim Reaper. Ah, the good old days.

19. Diablo

Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment

Release Year: 1996

Original Platform(s): PC

Back when instruction manuals were hefty and filled with lore, Blizzard released celebrated titles like Diablo. Unlike its faster-paced successors, the original Diablo was a dark, moody, and strategic experience. Playing through it again will remind you of the first Cow Level and the series' unique weapon — Wirt’s Leg.

18. Tomb Raider 2

Developer: Core Design

Publisher: Eidos Interactive

Release Year: 1997

Original Platform(s): PC, PS1

Lara Croft has evolved over the years, but there is a special place for Tomb Raider 2. This sequel expanded on the original, particularly with the inclusion of Croft Manor. This author spent countless hours exploring the manor and even locking Lara’s butler, Winston, in the freezer. He had it coming.

17. Goldeneye 007

Developer: Rare

Publisher: Nintendo

Release Year: 1997

Original Platform(s): N64

Goldeneye 007's thrilling campaign based on the film is nostalgic, but it is the multiplayer that really hits the sweet spot. The chaotic four-player split-screen battles, especially the scramble for the one-shot Golden Gun, provided endless fun, despite the N64 controller's awkwardness.

16. The Sims

Developer: Maxis

Publisher: Electronic Arts

Release Year: 2000

Original Platform(s): PC

The Sims allowed us to care for a virtual family or indulge in mischievous activities, like trapping Sims in swimming pools. It was a perfect after-school activity that often made this author lose track of time and forget his responsibilities. But it was worth it, even if it meant getting grounded.

15. Doom

Developer: id Software

Publisher: id Software

Release Year: 1993

Original Platform(s): PC

Doom wasn't the first FPS, but it defined the genre. The iconic soundtrack and the thrill of its hellish shooter experience evoke strong nostalgic feelings. It is no wonder Doom has been ported to countless platforms over the years.

14. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

Developer: Rockstar North

Publisher: Rockstar Games

Release Year: 2002

Original Platform(s): PS2

Grand Theft Auto III revolutionised the series, but Vice City took it to new heights with its 1980s Miami-inspired setting. The neon lights, classic cars, and vibrant fashion made it an unforgettable experience that players still love today.

13. Warcraft II: Tides of Darkness

Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment

Release Year: 1995

Original Platform(s): PC

While Warcraft: Orcs and Humans laid the groundwork, Warcraft II improved upon it with naval battles and larger armies. Its accessible gameplay and strategic depth make it a nostalgic favourite for many players.

12. Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Developer: Sega Technical Institute

Publisher: Sega

Release Year: 1992

Original Platform(s): Sega Genesis

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 introduced a second character, Tails, and memorable zones like Casino Night. The multiplayer experience added fun, even if it meant Tails was often a tool for sibling rivalry.

11. Final Fantasy VII

Developer: Square Enix

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

Release Year: 1997

Original Platform(s): PS1

Final Fantasy VII brought Cloud, Tifa, Aerith, and Barret into our lives. The first 3D entry in the series remains iconic, with unforgettable moments like the loss of Aerith and countless hours spent at the Gold Saucer.

10. Super Mario 64

Developer: Nintendo EAD

Publisher: Nintendo

Release Year: 1996

Original Platform(s): N64

Super Mario 64's brilliance is timeless. Its innovative design and nostalgic charm keep players returning, even if they didn't grow up with it. The early Super Mario magic is palpable on every level.

9. The Legend of Zelda

Developer: Nintendo R&D4

Publisher: Nintendo

Release Year: 1987

Original Platform(s): NES

The Legend of Zelda on NES is a far cry from today's open-world adventures, but its simplicity and top-down gameplay still hold nostalgic value. The iconic message, “It’s dangerous to go alone! Take this,” takes me right back to my youth, though this video game is older than I am!

8. Starcraft

Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment

Release Year: 1998

Original Platform(s): PC

I once read a joke online that if you wanted to ask for a Korean woman’s hand in marriage, you would have to beat her dad in a round of Starcraft. That is how much this video game was on the collective consciousness of people around the world in general, and in the Republic of Korea in particular. This timeless RTS features a rich and intriguing story, well written characters and is beloved to this day. Its sequel, Starcraft II, was equally well received, and the original was remastered so that you can enjoy the old video game with modern graphics. This author may or may not have teared up at the end of Starcraft II: Heart of the Swarm.

7. Street Fighter II: The World Warrior

Developer: Capcom

Publisher: Capcom

Release Year: 1991

Original Platform(s): Arcade

Street Fighter II: The World Warrior revolutionised fighting games. Its unique fighters, special moves, and combo system made it a standout sequel that we love to revisit, even after 30 years.

6. Rainbow Six 3: Ravenshield

Developer: Ubi Soft, Red Storm Entertainment

Publisher: Ubi Soft

Release Year: 2003

Original Platform(s): PC

Arguably the last of the great tactical shooters, Ravenshield was definitely the last of the Rainbow Six entries to stay true to its roots. Though other FPS video games like ARMA III or Ready or Not do provide features Ravenshield lacked, they lack some of the older game’s traits, like an enjoyable campaign. Arma III’s is forgettable at best, and Ready or Not gives you missions with no coherent narrative. And none of the two have a planning phase. Oh, how I miss that! Ravenshield had some equally enjoyable expansions as well, including Athena Shield and Iron Wrath. I proudly own this video game on Steam, which I had to buy after the physical CD broke.

5. Outpost 2: Divided Destiny

Developer: Dynamix

Publisher: Sierra On-Line

Release Year: 1997

Original Platform(s): PC

A sequel to Outpost, Divided Destiny is the epitome of what this author means when he drones on about how “they don’t make them like they used to.” Honestly, Frostpunk is great, the Anno series is fun, and Banished has a lot of intricate systems. But no video game since Outpost 2 has blended real-time strategy with colony survival as well. I enjoyed it so much that I still have it installed on my computer after having bought it on GOG.

4. Super Smash Bros. Melee

Developer: HAL Laboratory

Publisher: Nintendo

Release Year: 2001

Original Platform(s): GameCube

Super Smash Bros. Melee defined the series. With a larger roster and improved mechanics, it was a staple of gaming gatherings, providing endless fun and laughter with friends.

3. C&C: Generals

Developer: EA Pacific

Publisher: EA Games

Release Year: 2003

Original Platform(s): PC

I am tempted to replace Generals with C&C 3 Tiberium Wars because the latter was just so well received and is still played to this day, but in the interest of saving space, I will clump all the C&C games (including Red Alert, Generals and Tiberium Wars) into one spot. I enjoyed the C&C franchise to no end as a child, and oh goodness, do I have a lot of fond memories of competing with my brothers in LAN mode and online with strangers. Unfortunately, RTS games have never reached those glory days since.

2. Half-Life

Developer: Valve

Publisher: Sierra Studios

Release Year: 1998

Original Platform(s): PC

Half-Life’s interdimensional adventure remains a nostalgic favourite. The original game’s memorable moments, from the tram ride to the iconic audio cues, keep us returning to Black Mesa.

1. Halo: Combat Evolved

Developer: Bungie

Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios

Release Year: 2001

Original Platform(s): PC, Xbox

Halo: Combat Evolved was a genre-defining entry. Master Chief’s original adventure, with its memorable levels and easy accessibility, keeps it a staple for nostalgic gaming sessions, reminding us why it was so groundbreaking.

Parting thoughts

Nostalgia holds a powerful sway over gamers. Revisiting a video game from your childhood can transport you back to those youthful days of wonder and joy, marvelling at what were once cutting-edge visuals and immersive gameplay. While nostalgia is a deeply personal experience, certain games universally evoke that warm, nostalgic feeling. Here s a list of the best nostalgic games that will take you on a trip down memory lane.

Whether you are revisiting old favourites or discovering what the hype was about, these games are drenched in grade-A nostalgia. So, pick your favourite video game, and enjoy. If you can get the emulators running, that is!

by Ashas Bukhari