Despite video games having a relatively short history when compared to other economic and artistic fields, our journey has been characterized by remarkable expansion.
Over the course of many years, creativity and technology have continuously teamed up to develop a constantly expanding, diverse, and deeply impactful platform. This collaboration has resulted in significant periods in history that we remember fondly.
Every era brings its unique value to the chronicles of video gaming, mainly by introducing standout games that either pioneered a genre or reached unprecedented heights of quality, leaving an indelible impression on us.
Reflecting on the past helps us recall some remarkable video games that significantly influenced the evolution of gaming into what it is today. These include the following ten iconic games from the ’90s.
10. Diablo
A Luxury For Players
Diablo is a game that’s hard to fully understand if you didn’t play it when it first came out, as it was an extraordinary experience that defies description.
Beginning the epic saga that significantly shaped the Action Role-Playing Game (A-RPG) genre,
This game created a community that is still highly engaged and enduring within the interactive realm, largely due to the spellbinding gameplay mechanics and groundbreaking systems it introduced, which enchanted everyone who played it.
The fact that its successor might excel in quality and influence doesn’t lessen the remarkable achievement Diablo symbolizes, as it has significantly molded a gaming genre, impacting countless players and creators throughout history.
9. Street Fighter II
A Historic Arcade
It’s hard to believe over three decades have gone by since Street Fighter 2 was first released, given its impact still feels fresh and relevant, like it was just launched yesterday.
In my opinion, the manner in which it redefined the bar for fighting games was nothing short of revolutionary during that decade. Its user-friendly format, which appears astonishingly intuitive by today’s standards, made it a breeze even for newcomers to dive into the thrilling world of combat.
Regardless if it was played in an arcade or at home, Street Fighter II revolutionized the fighting game genre by introducing numerous playable characters, complex and diverse combo moves, and a high level of competition that many modern multiplayer games struggle to match.
Similar to the other games on this list, it stands out as an exceptional representative of its category and is often regarded as one of the greatest fighting games ever made.
8. Final Fantasy VII
The Series’ Pinnacle
Since its debut in 1990, the Final Fantasy series has consistently been a cornerstone of the video game industry. However, perhaps no achievement surpasses that of 1997’s release of Final Fantasy 7, which stands as one of the most significant landmarks in its history.
The shift to 3D graphics for the series is a strong point supporting its legendary reputation, however, Tetsuya Nomura’s creation is not merely defined by its polygon count.
Among numerous Japanese Role-Playing Games (J-RPGs), particularly those from Square Enix, none embody the genre quite like Final Fantasy VII. It stands as one of the most iconic video games in existence.
This version is brimming with distinctive features that both fans of the series and newcomers can easily identify.
7. Resident Evil 2
The Symbol of Terror
From the array of franchises that originated in the 1990s and still produce significant releases today, one noteworthy example is the Resident Evil series.
Discussing the significant impact that Capcom’s creation – Resident Evil 2 – has had on the horror genre is more or less a given, but it’s always worth praising this masterpiece to the skies.
While you may debate whether it’s the finest title within the IP, there’s no question about its visual, aural, mechanical, and most notably, atmospheric superiority. This aspect, rooted in its robust construction, stands out as its most impressive feature.
In the style of an elegant follow-up that skillfully takes elements from its forerunner to craft an extraordinary game, Resident Evil 2 has indelibly impacted anyone who’s experienced it, due to its swift ability to evoke genuine dread.
Experience a blend of top-notch filmmaking visuals from Hollywood and immersive video game mechanics. It offers an engaging experience with intriguing camera angles, spine-tingling audio effects, and nail-biting gameplay.
Enjoy the fusion of stunning cinematography from the world of Hollywood movies and interactive excitement similar to video games. This unique adventure is filled with puzzling camera positions, chilling soundscapes, and heart-pounding gameplay.
6. Doom
Ode to Violence
Instead of certain video games being notable for their gameplay’s addictive rhythm or the tense ambiance they create, Doom uniquely excels at inducing raw, intense adrenaline in players.
Engaging with Id Software’s shooter game offers a unique opportunity to delve into the most authentic and enjoyable aspect of gaming, primarily because of its revolutionary firearm mechanics and secondly, its masterfully crafted environment layouts.
Reflecting on its astonishingly captivating and legendary soundtrack, this creation offers a straightforward yet flawless recipe that not only sparked but essentially defined an entire musical genre due to its remarkable versatility.
Apart from its memorable weapon and foe aesthetics, boasting an unusual yet recognizable set of bosses, Doom remains remarkable. It has proven timeless, much like a venerable monarch.
It might not have been ideal to start playing it so early on, yet the experience proved valuable as I got to connect with one of my beloved game creators, and it equipped me for the outstanding first-person shooter games that were coming up in the future.
5. Super Mario 64
Platformers’ King
In the ’90s, there were significant influences across all genres, and Super Mario 64 paved the way for outstanding three-dimensional platformer games.
In much the same way as the initial game from the series did a decade ago, Mario paved the way for the evolution of this kind of gameplay, captivating millions of gamers alike.
People who were brought up discovering its mysteries, awestruck by its artistic and vibrant stages, and fully immersed in its polished mechanics can attest that it’s a true example of a platform game at its best.
As a devoted admirer, I can confidently say that the labyrinthine waterways of Dire Dire Docks are not my cup of tea, but let me tell you, Super Mario 64 is an unparalleled gem that’s hard to surpass. No matter how closely its successors may come, it remains a beacon of brilliance that few games will likely match.
4. Shenmue
Pioneering Dynamic Freedom
Although Shenmue may have faded from the consciousness of many modern gamers due to its relatively low profile over the past decade, there is no question that it stands as a timeless classic in the world of video games.
In the time when open-world games, side quests, and interactive environments weren’t as common as they are today, SEGA’s gem stood out as one of the trailblazers who significantly expanded the concept of a game that seemed to have a life of its own beyond the player’s control.
scarcely in my encounters with the Dreamcast have I been so amazed by the vast array of options a game provided, despite being so young that I barely comprehended much of it.
As I matured, my initial feelings about Shenmue were validated, and it’s plain to see that this game is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition.
3. Metal Gear Solid
A Transcendental Experience
There’s something captivating about certain video games, like Metal Gear Solid, that instantly grabs your attention as soon as you lay eyes on their covers.
Experiencing Yōji Shinkawa’s artwork and Tappi Iwase’s music immerses you in the world of Solid Snake from the very start, making that initial moment far more unforgettable than a large number of contemporary video games.
Hideo Kojima and his crew designed a game that employs cinematic aspects to offer an immersive experience that invites players to ponder the nature of war, heroism, and even transcendence.
During a period when many titles primarily delivered mindless action with little regard for their consequences, Metal Gear Solid stood out by questioning itself and its surrounding context – a revolutionary move for its day.
As a gamer, I can vouch that this video game truly shines with its epic final bosses, intricate level designs, and mechanical puzzles that keep me hooked. But when it comes to appreciating it as an artistic work with a powerful message, it takes the cake.
2. Half-Life
A Turning Point for Video Games
There’s no doubt about it – whenever Valve takes action within the video game industry, it’s always groundbreaking.
To illustrate clearly, their debut game, Half-Life, offered an exceptionally creative, captivating, and thrilling encounter – an experience that left a lasting impact on gaming history. This groundbreaking title served as a significant milestone, particularly in the realm of first-person games.
With its cleverly designed AI opponents, dynamic storyline, and lifelike physics in both puzzle and gunplay scenes, this game has an almost unparalleled capacity for drawing players into the experience, making it feel remarkably realistic, even compared to games of today.
Given its mysterious plotline and intriguing characters, its continuously evolving landscapes, and the sensation of embarking on an authentic journey instead of one dictated by rules and programming, Half-Life truly stands out as an extraordinary masterpiece.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Nominee for Best Game of All Time
Discussing The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time can be a challenge due to its esteemed position among gaming’s greatest titles, as it seems like virtually every angle has already been covered in conversation.
Consequently, there’s scarcely any room for additional input regarding the fact that it uniquely embodies the spirit of adventure unlike any other video game, or its exceptional design aspect, encompassing immersive environments, captivating characters, engaging objectives, and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Even though we’ve moved on to newer games, it’s always worth recalling that Ocarina of Time played a significant role in shaping the gaming industry as we know it today. It contributed significantly to its development.
Despite some claiming its narrative might be exaggeratedly praised, it’s undeniably a remarkable accomplishment in terms of graphics, technical prowess, gameplay, and creativity, frequently referred to as the epitome of gaming excellence.
As a devoted admirer, I must confess that my taste tends to lean towards other creative offerings. However, I can’t deny the immense credit due to Nintendo for crafting such an exceptional masterpiece, and it’s only fair to acknowledge their genius.
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2025-04-09 18:10