90s Console Games Without Sequels

The 1990s were a great time for video games, with both older systems like the NES and Game Boy still popular alongside newer consoles like the SNES, N64, PlayStation, Sega Genesis, and Sega Saturn. This meant gamers had tons of choices and could enjoy a huge variety of games.

Sadly, a number of great games only received one release and never got a follow-up. Some were even exclusive to the original console they came out on. Here’s a look at some of the best games that never had a sequel, and a few that might be better suited for a complete remake than a continuation of the story.

Little Samson

Switch Between Heroes

I remember when Little Samson came out for the NES in ’92 – it was so cool! What really stood out was that you didn’t just play as one character. You could switch between four different heroes while you were playing through the levels, which was a really unique idea back then.

Little Samson is a classic NES game starring a boy who teams up with a mouse, a dragon, and a golem – each with unique skills, like the mouse squeezing into tight spaces and the dragon taking to the skies. Originally incredibly rare, this beloved title is getting a re-release on modern consoles such as the PS5 in 2026, thanks to Limited Run Games.

Shatterhand

Smash Through Robots

Released for the NES in 1991, Shatterhand is essentially a modified version of a Japanese game originally based on Super Rescue Solbrain, a show similar to Power Rangers that began airing the same year.

As a gamer, I gotta say, the North American version of this game is awesome. You get to pick any level, which is a huge plus! You play as this cybernetic dude who can really pack a punch. And it’s not just about the fists – you can also find these robotic power-ups that make you even stronger. Honestly, it’s one of those NES games that still feels great to play even today.

Yo! Noid

Avoid The Noid

The NES game Yo! Noid came out in 1990. Interestingly, it was originally released in Japan under a different name, Kamen no Ninja Hanamaru, and then re-released with a new look for Western audiences.

If you don’t recall, The Noid was Domino’s mascot in the 80s and 90s. Back then, companies often made simple games to advertise, and one of these was Yo! Noid. In the game, players used yo-yos to fight enemies and deliver pizza, just like in the Domino’s commercials.

Metal Warriors

Mech-Based Action

Released in 1995 for the SNES, Metal Warriors was a major title thanks to its development by LucasArts and publication by Konami. Even today, the game is known for having some of the best and most visually appealing pixel art cutscenes on the system.

The game centers on controlling a large mech and battling enemies. If things get tough, players can exit the mech. This feature is reminiscent of the classic NES game Blaster Master, though that game used a tank instead of a mech.

Goof Troop

Resident Gawrsh

The video game Goof Troop came out for the SNES in 1993, inspired by the popular 1992 Disney cartoon series with the same title. However, the game’s story doesn’t follow the plot of the show.

In this game, players team up with Max and Goofy to battle pirates on a tropical island, using cool gadgets to help them win. It’s a puzzle game where you arrange blocks, and it’s special because Shinji Mikami – the creator of Resident Evil – was involved in its development, making it a standout title among Disney games published by Capcom.

Secret Of Evermore

Not Quite Mana

Released for the SNES in 1995, Secret of Evermore is a game created by Square, but despite the name and its creator, it isn’t connected to the Mana series.

This game was a spiritual successor to another title, taking place in 1965. It told the story of a boy before he traveled back in time to the prehistoric era, an event that transformed his dog into a wilder creature. While it was an action RPG, it wasn’t as successful as Secret of Mana, and therefore never got a follow-up.

Crusader Of Centy

Sega’s Zelda

Released for the Sega Genesis in 1995 (a year after its debut in Japan), Crusader of Centy was Sega’s take on the popular Zelda formula. Many consider it one of the best Zeldainspired games of the 90s, thanks to its expansive world, appealing graphics, memorable music, and gameplay centered around collecting and using items. It’s surprising that the game never received a sequel, given the popularity of the Zelda* series at the time.

I remember Sega had a few other action-adventure games that looked at things from above, like Linkle Liver Story on the Saturn. But honestly, none of them ever really felt like a proper follow-up to Crusader of Centy. It just didn’t capture that same magic.

Speed Power Gunbike

From Bikes To Mechs

Developer: Inti Creates
Publisher: Sony Music Entertainment Japan
Platform: PS1
Release Date: 4/23/98

Speed Power Gunbike was a PlayStation game released in Japan in 1998. It’s significant because it was the very first game developed by Inti Creates, the studio now famous for creating games like Mega Man Zero and Azure Striker Gunvolt.

The game featured exciting characters who could pursue opponents on motorcycles that could also turn into powerful robots. Despite its simple, blocky graphics and anime style, it still holds up visually today.

Threads Of Fate

Minty Fresh

Released in Japan in 1999 for the PlayStation 1 (and in North America in 2000), Threads of Fate just barely qualifies as a 90s game. It came out during a time when Square was trying new things with the PS1, and it’s an action RPG with two different storylines to play through.

Rue was a strong male fighter who wielded an axe-sword and could shapeshift into monsters. Mint, a female mage, defeated her enemies using rings and powerful magic.

Princess Crown

A Forgotten Atlus Game

Princess Crown is an action RPG developed by Atlus. Originally released for the Sega Saturn in 1997, it later came to the PSP in 2005 and the PS4 in 2020. Unfortunately, none of these versions were ever made available outside of Japan. The game features 2D arena battles where players control a princess.

The game boasts great-looking characters and enjoyable battles, which makes it disappointing that it never received an English translation or a follow-up. Unfortunately, that’s not unusual for many games on the Sega Saturn.

2025-12-24 14:38