Best Zombie Games From The 1990s

As someone who has spent countless hours navigating through the darkest corners of the gaming world, I can confidently say that the 90s were a golden age for zombie games. And among these gems, there are three titles that stand out like a beacon in the night: Nightmare Creatures, Blood, and Resident Evil 2.

Zombie games have always been a popular genre in gaming, as who wouldn’t want to blast through hordes of undead with an entire arsenal of different weapons at one’s disposal? Series such as Dead Rising and Resident Evil stand out as champions of the genre, especially with newer and more exciting additions that push the boundaries of what is possible in modern gaming.

But even before the dawn of modern games with graphics almost distinguishable from real life and the most immersive gameplay, there were still a few zombie games that would have doubtlessly scared gamers witless and grossed them out with their brain-busting gore at the time. It’s time for a trip through the memory graveyard and take a look back at these early, undead hits.

6 The House of the Dead

A Shining Example of Light Gun Games

Discussing iconic zombie games inevitably brings up the first “House of the Dead” game, a groundbreaking title in the light-gun genre. Just like in most zombie games, there’s a scientist performing grotesque and unethical experiments to unlock life and death secrets, with his results escaping and taking over the mansion. A distress signal summons Thomas Rogan and his companion G to the Curien Mansion, where they are confronted by hordes of the undead.

Back in the original version, I was thrilled to wield a light gun, immersing myself completely as I aimed and fired at the terrifying monsters on the screen. Unfortunately, that level of engagement seemed to be lacking in The House of the Dead 2. Unlike games like Resident Evil where resource management is crucial, this game encourages me to let loose with a barrage of bullets in the chaos of a thrilling zombie shoot-em-up, just to stay alive.

5 Zombies Ate My Neighbors

Choose Between One of Two Protagonists to Save the Suburbs

It might seem unexpected for a tranquil suburban setting to transform into a territory overrun by an undead horde, but such is indeed the case. Characters Zeke and Julie are unwillingly thrust into heroic roles within this traditional shoot-’em-up game, as the eccentric scientist Dr. Tongue sets loose hordes of monsters in their previously peaceful neighborhood.

In this game, either a single player or two can embark on an adventure, navigating diverse environments to save their neighbors who have fallen captive to the monstrous creatures unleashed from the Doctor’s castle. If any foe manages to touch a neighbor, they are doomed and lost forever. To progress, players must eliminate all enemies that bar their path. What makes this game unique is the use of ordinary, everyday items as weapons, imbuing them with extraordinary power – a humorous twist that adds charm to the gameplay.

4 Zombie Nation

Boasts One of the Most Unique Premises in the Genre

Platforms: PC, NES, Nintendo Switch
Released: January 1991
Developers: KAZe
Genre: Shooter

Zombie games stretch back even as far as the early 90s when most gamers were probably using their NES to play titles such as Ninja Gaiden and Super Mario Bros. For those who were in the market for a fast-paced and fun shoot ’em up, there was Zombie Nation, a Japanese zombie game with a unique premise.

In nine years from now, the disembodied head of the legendary samurai Namakubi journeys to America, a continent overrun by zombies traced back to Darc Seed, an extraterrestrial who crashed on Earth and initiated this plague of undead. Instead of indiscriminately firing bullets at both creatures and architecture, players will aim for the eyes and vomit, offering a grisly gaming experience that pushes the envelope even for zombie games. This title stands out as a fresh choice for gamers weary of repetitive titles.

3 Nightmare Creatures

Slay the Undead in this Victorian-Era Horror Title

Among the pioneers in survival horror genre, and one of the initial games backdropped by the Victorian era, “Nightmare Creatures” is a title that frequently gets overlooked and undervalued when discussing iconic horror games. Gamers are given the option to pick from two available protagonists before embarking on a mission to confront hordes of demons and the risen undead, who aim to spread fear among the living.

In each character, you’ll find a unique approach to gameplay, as each one is equipped with a distinct weapon to combat the dreadful creatures intent on dragging them into the afterlife. The cult, aiming for the grand ambition of harnessing supernatural forces to serve their sinister aims, unwittingly triggers catastrophe. Now, it’s up to you and your arsenal to prevent mankind from facing total destruction.

2 Blood

Assume the Role of a Legendary Gunslinger

In a style reminiscent of DOOM, Blood is an established gameplay shooter where players unleash destruction upon undead and demonic creatures using their arsenal of weapons. The setting is vague, blending aspects from various historical and futuristic periods. You assume the character of Caleb, a former cult leader who now serves as a ruthless gunfighter. Resurrected from his grave, Caleb seeks retribution against those who betrayed him and other members of his cult.

Regardless of its vintage, “Blood” continues to be an incredibly engaging shooter game that pushes players’ abilities to their limits due to its tough difficulty level. However, the satisfaction derived from overcoming these challenges makes it all worthwhile. Furthermore, the 2019 Steam release ensures that this piece of gaming history is readily available for modern gamers eager to experience the essence of old-school zombie games.

1 Resident Evil 2

Excels Above the First in Many Ways

The original “Resident Evil” is a highly acclaimed video game, and rightly so. It was among the first survival horror games ever created and left a lasting impact on the genre. It offers chilling moments, nail-biting gameplay, and brain-teasing puzzles for a truly remarkable gaming experience. Given the impressive foundation laid by the first game in the series, it might have seemed impossible for “Resident Evil 2” to live up to its predecessor. However, Capcom surprised everyone by crafting an even more outstanding sequel.

Presenting iconic figures (Leon S Kennedy, Claire Redfield, and Ada Wong), Resident Evil 2 depicts the devastating fall of Raccoon City, overrun by zombie hordes with no sanctuaries remaining. Characters like Birkin and Mr. X have left lasting impressions, causing terror and distress that has haunted multiple generations. While some consider the remake as the ultimate way to engage with Resident Evil 2, it’s worth noting there were significant alterations and heartbreaking absences that make a strong argument for those who may have overlooked this game throughout the years to reconsider playing it, given its status as one of the best zombie games from the 90s, and arguably of all time.

2024-09-26 01:35