Rediscovering Forgotten Gems: 5 Underrated Retro Games You Need to Play

If you're a fan of retro gaming, you know the thrill of finding a game that brings back memories or one that’s completely new to you. While some games have stayed in the spotlight over the years, others have drifted into the background, quietly waiting to be rediscovered. Let's dive into five underrated retro games that deserve your attention today. These classics may not have the same level of fame as some of their counterparts, but they still pack a punch and offer an experience you shouldn’t miss.

Super Mario World (1990)

Super Mario World often stands in the shadow of its predecessor, Super Mario Bros. 3, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. Released on the SNES, this game took everything great about the earlier Mario titles and turned it up a notch. The graphics were vibrant, the controls tighter than a drum, and the level design was sheer genius. Yet, somehow, Super Mario World tends to be overshadowed by the original NES games.

This game introduced us to Yoshi, Mario's dinosaur buddy, who added a whole new layer of gameplay. The secrets hidden within each level were a treasure hunt waiting to be discovered, with hidden exits that led to new worlds. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Koji Kondo, is iconic, yet it doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves. With its colorful worlds and addictive gameplay, Super Mario World is a retro gem that’s worth picking up again. It’s like a warm blanket on a cold day—comforting and familiar, yet full of surprises.

Metal Gear Solid (1999)

Metal Gear Solid might not immediately come to mind when you think of underrated games, but it’s often overshadowed by its more modern successors. The game’s cinematic storytelling, innovative gameplay, and memorable characters were groundbreaking at the time, and they continue to stand the test of time. Released on the PlayStation, it was a pioneer in blending narrative with gameplay in a way that felt seamless.

The stealth mechanics were unlike anything gamers had seen before. Rather than running and gunning, you had to carefully plan your movements, hide from enemies, and think strategically. The story was complex, filled with political intrigue, and sprinkled with philosophical questions that made you ponder long after the credits rolled. The characters, especially Solid Snake, became icons in gaming history. But in the rush to praise newer entries in the series, the original Metal Gear Solid sometimes gets left in the dust.

Don’t let it slip through the cracks. Playing this game today is like watching a classic movie that still stands the test of time. It’s a piece of gaming history that deserves a place in your collection.

Tetris (1984)

When people think of Tetris, they often remember it as a simple puzzle game that everyone’s played at least once. But Tetris is so much more than that—it’s a cultural phenomenon, a game that’s just as captivating now as it was upon its initial arrival. Developed by Alexey Pajitnov, Tetris may not have the flashy graphics or complex stories of other games, but what it lacks in those areas, it more than makes up for in pure gameplay.

The game’s simplicity is its greatest strength. You guide falling blocks, called Tetrominoes, to fit them together and clear lines. Sounds easy, right? However, with an increase in pace, the game transforms into a frantic test of your reflexes and strategic thinking. It’s a game that can hook you for hours without you even realizing it. And while it’s been ported to countless platforms, the original versions still have a certain charm that’s hard to beat.

What makes Tetris stand out is its ability to appeal to everyone. Regardless of whether you’re a laid-back player or a die-hard gaming aficionado, Tetris has something for you. It's akin to a global dialect that resonates with all, which is precisely what lends it its remarkable quality. Give it a try, and you might find yourself glued to the screen, just like millions of players have been for decades.

Pac-Man (1982)

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t recognize Pac-Man, but despite its fame, it’s often taken for granted in the modern gaming world. Released in arcades in 1982, Pac-Man became an instant hit, but today, it’s sometimes seen as a relic of the past rather than a game worth revisiting. This little yellow character, however, holds greater potential than you may realize.

The gameplay is deceptively simple—you guide Pac-Man navigating a labyrinth, munching on pellets while steering clear of phantoms. But as you progress, the ghosts get faster and smarter, and the tension ramps up. The game masterfully combines strategic thinking with quick reflexes, challenging you to think on your feet while also reacting quickly. And let’s not forget the iconic sound effects and music, which are as recognizable as Pac-Man himself.

What makes Pac-Man special is its capacity to instill a feeling of immediacy and excitement with such a simple concept. It's a game that's simple to learn yet challenging to perfect, which is why it’s still played in arcades and on consoles today. So, the next time you see Pac-Man at your local arcade or in a digital store, give it another go. It’s like reconnecting with an old friend—you’ll be surprised at how much fun you can have together.

Final Fantasy VII (1997)

Final Fantasy VII is frequently regarded as one of the finest role-playing games in history, but in recent years, it’s been somewhat eclipsed by its remake and other entries in the series. The original PlayStation version, though, remains a masterpiece that’s worth revisiting. With its epic story, memorable characters, and groundbreaking 3D graphics, Final Fantasy VII establish a groundbreaking benchmark for role-playing games when it was released.

The game’s story follows Cloud Strife, a hired gun who aligns with a faction of insurgents fighting against a corrupt megacorporation. Along the way, you’ll meet a cast of characters who each have their own backstory, motivations, and struggles. The game tackles themes of identity, loss, and the consequences of our actions, all wrapped up in a plot that’s full of twists and turns.

What really sets Final Fantasy VII apart is its combat system and the Materia system, which allows you to customize your characters’ abilities. The game’s world is vast and full of secrets, from hidden items to optional bosses, making it a joy to explore. Although the visuals might appear outdated by contemporary benchmarks, they still have a certain charm that adds to the game’s nostalgic appeal.

If you haven’t played the original Final Fantasy VII in a while, or if you’ve never played it at all, now’s the time. It’s like reading a classic novel—there’s always something new to discover, no matter how many times you’ve experienced it before.

These games might not be as shiny and new as today’s blockbusters, but they offer something special that’s worth your time. So dust off your old consoles, fire up an emulator, or download them on your modern system. Rediscovering these forgotten gems is like taking a trip down memory lane, with plenty of surprises along the way. Happy gaming!