Classic games have stood the test of time, offering timeless gameplay, unforgettable characters, and cultural impact. Whether you’re nostalgic or discovering them for the first time, these games remain fun, challenging, and influential. Here’s a curated list of 20 classic games you can still enjoy today:
1. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
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Why it’s classic: Defined the platformer genre and introduced Mario as a global icon.
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Learn More / Play: Super Mario Bros. – Wikipedia
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Buy / Play Online: Nintendo Store
2. Pac-Man (1980)
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Why it’s classic: Iconic arcade game with strategic non-violent gameplay.
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Learn More / Play: Pac-Man – Wikipedia
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Play Online: Namco Arcade
3. Tetris (1984)
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Why it’s classic: Puzzle game with simple mechanics but highly addictive gameplay.
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Learn More / Play: Tetris – Wikipedia
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Play Online: Tetris Official
4. The Legend of Zelda (1986)
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Why it’s classic: Open-world exploration and adventure storytelling pioneer.
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Learn More / Play: The Legend of Zelda – Wikipedia
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Buy / Play Online: Nintendo Store
5. Street Fighter II (1991)
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Why it’s classic: Revolutionized competitive fighting games with combos and character selection.
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Learn More / Play: Street Fighter II – Wikipedia
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Buy / Play Online: Capcom Store
6. Super Mario 64 (1996)
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Why it’s classic: First 3D Mario game; changed 3D platforming forever.
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Learn More / Play: Super Mario 64 – Wikipedia
7. Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
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Why it’s classic: Fast-paced platforming and memorable characters.
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Learn More / Play: Sonic the Hedgehog – Wikipedia
8. Donkey Kong (1981)
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Why it’s classic: Early arcade platformer introducing Jumpman (Mario).
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Learn More / Play: Donkey Kong – Wikipedia
9. Metroid (1986)
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Why it’s classic: Blended exploration, action, and storytelling in side-scrolling gameplay.
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Learn More / Play: Metroid – Wikipedia
10. Final Fantasy VII (1997)
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Why it’s classic: Landmark RPG with deep story and cinematic cutscenes.
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Learn More / Play: Final Fantasy VII – Wikipedia
11. Mega Man 2 (1988)
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Why it’s classic: Side-scrolling action with challenging gameplay and iconic boss battles.
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Learn More / Play: Mega Man 2 – Wikipedia
12. Castlevania (1986)
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Why it’s classic: Gothic platformer with memorable soundtrack and gameplay.
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Learn More / Play: Castlevania – Wikipedia
13. Resident Evil (1996)
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Why it’s classic: Survival horror pioneer with tense gameplay and storytelling.
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Learn More / Play: Resident Evil – Wikipedia
14. Street Fighter II Turbo (1992)
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Why it’s classic: Expanded mechanics and speed from the original Street Fighter II.
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Learn More / Play: Street Fighter II Turbo – Wikipedia
15. Super Mario World (1990)
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Why it’s classic: Innovative platforming and the debut of Yoshi.
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Learn More / Play: Super Mario World – Wikipedia
16. Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
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Why it’s classic: 3D adventure masterpiece, highly influential on future games.
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Learn More / Play: Ocarina of Time – Wikipedia
17. Street Fighter Alpha 3 (1998)
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Why it’s classic: Popular fighting game with deep mechanics and multiple characters.
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Learn More / Play: Street Fighter Alpha 3 – Wikipedia
18. Super Mario Kart (1992)
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Why it’s classic: Defined the kart racing genre and multiplayer fun.
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Learn More / Play: Super Mario Kart – Wikipedia
19. Pac-Man Championship Edition (2007)
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Why it’s classic: Modern revival of the original Pac-Man with new mechanics.
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Learn More / Play: Pac-Man Championship Edition – Wikipedia
20. Donkey Kong Country (1994)
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Why it’s classic: Beautiful graphics for its time and challenging platforming gameplay.
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Learn More / Play: Donkey Kong Country – Wikipedia
🧠 Takeaway
Classic games are timeless for a reason. They introduced gameplay mechanics, characters, and stories that influenced millions of modern games. Many of these classics are still available on consoles, PC, and online platforms, allowing new generations to experience them.
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Learn and play more: Most of these games are available on Nintendo Store, Capcom Store, or official websites.