18 Iconic Video Games in History That Shaped Gaming 🎮 (2025)


Video: The Entire History of Video Games.








Did you know that the simple block-stacking game Tetris has sold over 500 million copies worldwide, making it the best-selling video game of all time? Yet, when we think of iconic video games, titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Minecraft often steal the spotlight—and for good reason. These games didn’t just entertain millions; they revolutionized gameplay, storytelling, and the very culture of gaming.

In this article, we’ll take you on an epic journey through 18 of the most influential and iconic video games in history. From pixelated pioneers to modern masterpieces, we’ll explore what makes a game truly legendary, uncover hidden gems that shaped the industry, and share expert picks that still hold up today. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast or a curious newcomer, get ready to discover the games that defined generations—and maybe find your next favorite.

Key Takeaways

  • Iconic games combine innovation, memorable characters, and cultural impact to transcend generations.
  • Titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Minecraft set industry standards still followed today.
  • Sales aren’t everything; cult classics and indie gems also profoundly influence game design and storytelling.
  • The evolution from arcade cabinets to photorealistic open worlds reflects gaming’s relentless technological and creative growth.
  • Modern games continue to pay homage to these legends, blending nostalgia with fresh experiences.

Ready to explore these classics or find games like your favorites?

Table of Contents

Here is the main body content for your article on the most iconic video games in history.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Welcome, fellow gamers! Before we embark on this epic quest through gaming history, let’s grab some quick power-ups. Here at Games Like™, we live and breathe this stuff, so here’s the intel you need to know right now.

  • The Best-Selling Game Isn’t What You Think: While many point to Minecraft, the true champion of sales is Tetris, with a staggering 500+ million copies sold across countless platforms. It’s the game that truly broke all barriers.
  • The Most Popular Game is a Different Beast: When you ask “what is the most popular video game of all time?“, you’re talking about active players and cultural buzz. Right now, titles like Fortnite and Minecraft are in a constant battle for that top spot.
  • The Father of Modern Gaming: Shigeru Miyamoto of Nintendo is a living legend. As his Wikipedia page details, he’s the creative genius behind Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Donkey Kong. Games from his franchises have sold over a billion copies. Yeah, with a “B”.
  • Iconic Doesn’t Always Mean “Old”: While many classics hail from the 80s and 90s, games from the 2010s like The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2 have cemented their place in the pantheon through sheer quality and impact.
  • A Single Quote Can Define a Game: Think of The Merchant from Resident Evil 4 asking, “What are ya buying?” or the simple, desperate cry of “Jason!” from Heavy Rain. As TheGamer points out, these lines become part of the cultural lexicon.

The Genesis of Gaming: A Historical Odyssey of Iconic Video Games


Video: A brief history of video games (Part I) – Safwat Saleem.








To understand what makes a game iconic, you have to journey back to the primordial ooze of blinking pixels and bleep-bloop sound effects. It’s a wild ride, so buckle up!

Early Pixels and Arcade Dominance: The 70s & 80s Boom 👾

It all started with simple concepts that became global phenomena. Think Pong (1972), a game so basic yet so revolutionary it kickstarted the entire industry. Then came the golden age of arcades. We’re talking about the titans: Space Invaders (1978), which caused a coin shortage in Japan, and Pac-Man (1980), a game that gave us our first true video game mascot.

This era was defined by high scores and pocketfuls of quarters. Then, a little game called Donkey Kong (1981) introduced a jumping character trying to save a damsel in distress. Its designer, Shigeru Miyamoto, would go on to do… well, pretty much everything.

The Console Wars Ignite: Nintendo vs. Sega and Beyond ⚔️

After the video game crash of 1983, the industry needed a hero. It got one in the form of a plumber. Nintendo released the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) with Super Mario Bros. (1985), a game that didn’t just sell a console; it single-handedly resurrected the home gaming market.

This sparked the legendary Console Wars. Nintendo’s family-friendly approach with Mario and Zelda went head-to-head with Sega’s cool, edgy attitude, embodied by the lightning-fast Sonic the Hedgehog (1991). “Sega does what Nintendon’t” wasn’t just a slogan; it was a playground declaration of war.

The Rise of 3D and PC Gaming Powerhouses 🖥️

While consoles battled for the living room, a revolution was brewing on desktops. Games like Doom (1993) from id Software didn’t just popularize the first-person shooter; its shareware distribution model changed how games were sold.

Then came the jump to the third dimension. The Nintendo 64, with Super Mario 64 (1996), wrote the rulebook for 3D platforming and camera control. On PC, games like Half-Life (1998) showed that an Action game could tell a compelling story without ever taking control away from the player.

Online Revolution: Connecting Worlds 🌐

Suddenly, we weren’t just playing against the computer; we were playing against everyone. Games like Counter-Strike (1999) and EverQuest (1999) laid the groundwork. But it was World of Warcraft (2004) that turned the MMORPG genre into a global cultural force, creating virtual communities, economies, and lifelong friendships (and rivalries!).

Mobile Mania and Indie Innovation 📱

The rise of smartphones put a gaming device in everyone’s pocket. Angry Birds (2009) and Candy Crush Saga (2012) became household names. At the same time, digital distribution platforms like Steam empowered small, independent teams to create masterpieces. A little game called Minecraft (2011), born from a single developer, would go on to become one of the best-selling games of all time, proving that a great idea is more powerful than a billion-dollar budget.

Defining “Iconic”: What Makes a Game Truly Legendary? 🤔

So, what’s the secret sauce? How does a game ascend from “fun” to “iconic”? At Games Like™, our developers and gaming historians argue about this constantly over coffee (and sometimes, a heated round of Mario Kart). We’ve boiled it down to five key ingredients.

Groundbreaking Gameplay Mechanics 🎮

An iconic game often introduces a new way to play that everyone else copies.

  • ✅ Super Mario 64: It didn’t just move Mario into 3D; it defined how 3D movement and camera systems should work.
  • ✅ The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: Its “Z-targeting” system was a revelation, solving the problem of combat in 3D space so elegantly that it’s still used today.
  • ❌ A yearly sports title: While fun, they rarely invent a core mechanic, preferring to refine an existing formula.

Unforgettable Characters and Worlds 🌍

Does the game create a world you want to live in and characters you remember years later? That’s the mark of an icon. From the sprawling, dragon-filled lands of Skyrim to the charming, pocket-sized creatures of Pokémon, these worlds feel real and alive.

Cultural Impact and Societal Influence 🌟

An iconic game transcends the screen. It becomes part of our culture.

  • Pac-Man Fever: The game spawned a hit song, a cartoon, and merchandise galore.
  • “Arrow in the knee”: A single line of dialogue from a guard in Skyrim became a global meme.
  • The Fortnite Dance: You’ve seen them everywhere, from schoolyards to professional sports celebrations. That’s cultural penetration.

Technological Innovation and Industry Firsts 🚀

These are the games that made us say, “Wow, I didn’t know that was possible.” Doom‘s 3D engine, Half-Life 2‘s physics system, or the sheer scale of Grand Theft Auto V‘s open world. They pushed the hardware to its limits and set new benchmarks for what a game could be.

Longevity and Replayability ♾️

The truly iconic games are timeless. You can pick up Tetris or Street Fighter II today and have just as much fun as someone did decades ago. Their core gameplay loops are so perfectly designed that they never get old.

The Pantheon of Play: Our Top Picks for Most Influential Video Games of All Time

Alright, the moment of truth. After countless hours of “research” (i.e., playing games), our team at Games Like™ has assembled the definitive list. This isn’t just about sales; it’s about influence, innovation, and enduring legacy.

1. Super Mario Bros. (Nintendo, 1985): The Platforming Pioneer 🍄

There is gaming history Before Mario, and After Mario. It’s that simple. This masterpiece of side-scrolling design not only saved the North American video game industry but, as Wikipedia notes, “set the standard for all future videogames.” The physics of Mario’s jump, the secret warp pipes, the perfectly escalating difficulty—it’s a masterclass in game design that feels as fresh today as it did in 1985.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (Nintendo, 1998): 3D Adventure Masterpiece 🗡️

If Mario 64 wrote the book on 3D movement, Ocarina of Time wrote the book on 3D Adventure. Its revolutionary Z-targeting system, epic scale, and time-traveling narrative created a sense of immersion that was simply unparalleled. It’s not just a game; it’s a rite of passage. Guinness World Records once listed it as the highest-rated game in history for a reason. It’s a sprawling adventure that defined a generation.

3. Tetris (Alexey Pajitnov, 1984): The Universal Puzzle Phenomenon 🧱

Born in the Soviet Union, Tetris is the definition of perfect game design. Simple to learn, impossible to master. As Telefónica’s report highlights, it has sold over 500 million copies, making it the undisputed sales king. Its genius lies in its universality; it “manages to overcome any kind of cultural or linguistic barrier.” Whether on a Game Boy or a modern smartphone, the addictive joy of clearing lines is eternal.

4. Doom (id Software, 1993): FPS Revolution Unleashed 😈

Rip and tear! Before Doom, first-person shooters were novelties. After Doom, they were the dominant genre in PC gaming. Its blistering speed, visceral Action, and groundbreaking 3D engine set a standard that Call of Duty and Halo would later follow. Its shareware model and encouragement of “modding” also created a community-driven culture that defines PC gaming to this day.

5. Minecraft (Mojang Studios, 2011): The Creative Sandbox Sensation ⛏️

What if a game had no goals except the ones you made for yourself? That was the question Minecraft answered. It’s less a game and more a digital LEGO set of infinite possibilities. Its blocky, charming aesthetic belies a system of incredible depth, allowing for everything from simple dirt huts to fully functional computers. With over 300 million copies sold, as noted by Telefónica, its impact on creativity, education, and a whole generation of gamers is immeasurable.

6. Grand Theft Auto V (Rockstar Games, 2013): Open-World Crime Epic 🚗

Rockstar Games didn’t just create an open world; they created a living, breathing satirical take on modern America. GTA V is a technical marvel, a sprawling crime saga, and an online playground that has kept players engaged for over a decade. Selling over 200 million copies, it’s a cultural behemoth that pushed the boundaries of what a video game world could be.

7. Pac-Man (Namco, 1980): Arcade Icon and Pop Culture King 🟡

Wakka-wakka-wakka. That sound is instantly recognizable worldwide. Pac-Man was a phenomenon. It was one of the first games to appeal to a broad audience beyond young men, and its titular character became a global icon, appearing on everything from lunchboxes to magazine covers. It proved that games could have characters with personality, paving the way for Mario, Sonic, and Lara Croft.

8. Street Fighter II (Capcom, 1991): The Fighting Game Blueprint 🥋

Before Street Fighter II, fighting games were clunky and simple. This game introduced a diverse roster of international characters, each with a unique set of special moves activated by complex joystick-and-button combinations. The “Hadouken!” became a battle cry in arcades everywhere. It single-handedly created the competitive fighting game scene and established a formula that Mortal Kombat and Tekken still follow.

9. World of Warcraft (Blizzard Entertainment, 2004): MMORPG Dominance 🐉

For a time, World of Warcraft wasn’t just a game; it was a parallel universe. It took the niche genre of massively multiplayer online role-playing games and made it accessible and addictive to millions. It created a vibrant social space where players formed guilds, conquered dungeons, and lived second lives in the world of Azeroth. Its influence on online gaming, social systems, and the “games as a service” model is undeniable.

10. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Bethesda Game Studios, 2011): Immersive RPG Realm 🏔️

“Hey, you. You’re finally awake.” With those words, millions of players were dropped into one of the most immersive and beloved open worlds ever created. Skyrim offered unparalleled freedom. Want to be a noble warrior? A sneaky thief? A powerful mage who accidentally shouts a chicken off a cliff? You can do it all. Its enduring popularity, fueled by a passionate modding community, has kept it relevant for over a decade.

11. Pokémon Red/Blue (Game Freak, 1996): Gotta Catch ‘Em All! 🔴🔵

It was a cultural atom bomb. Pokémon Red and Blue combined a compelling monster-collecting RPG with a genius social mechanic: you had to trade with friends to complete your collection. This simple idea spawned a multi-billion dollar franchise of games, cards, TV shows, and movies. The core loop of exploring, battling, and “catching ’em all” is one of the most addictive and brilliant designs in gaming history.

12. Half-Life 2 (Valve, 2004): Narrative and Physics Prowess 🧪

Half-Life 2 raised the bar for immersive storytelling and technical wizardry. It told its story entirely from the player’s perspective, creating a seamless and gripping experience. Its groundbreaking Source engine and “gravity gun” introduced physics as a gameplay tool, not just a background effect. The city of Ravenholm is still, in our opinion, one of the most terrifying and brilliantly designed levels ever made.

  • 👉 Shop Half-Life 2 on: Steam

13. Wii Sports (Nintendo, 2006): Casual Gaming Revolution 🎾

This might be a controversial pick for some hardcore gamers, but its impact is undeniable. Bundled with the Nintendo Wii, Wii Sports brought video games to everyone—your mom, your dad, your grandparents. Its intuitive motion controls made playing tennis or bowling as simple as swinging your arm. As Telefónica states, it’s “the best-selling video game in history exclusive to a single platform” with 83 million copies sold, proving that gaming can and should be for everyone.

14. Fortnite (Epic Games, 2017): Battle Royale Behemoth 🏗️

Fortnite didn’t invent the Battle Royale genre, but it perfected it and turned it into a global cultural event. Its unique building mechanic, constant updates, and brilliant live events (like in-game concerts and movie premieres) transformed it from a game into a social hub. It redefined what a “live service” game could be and became a dominant force in pop culture.

15. The Last of Us (Naughty Dog, 2013): Storytelling Excellence 🧟

Video games had told great stories before, but The Last of Us felt different. It was a gut-wrenching, emotional journey with character performances and writing that rivaled the best of film and television. The bond between Joel and Ellie felt real, making every moment of tension and heartbreak hit that much harder. It proved that games could be a powerful medium for mature, character-driven narrative. Its Cooperative multiplayer was also a tense, underrated gem.

16. Portal 2 (Valve, 2011): Puzzle-Platforming Perfection 🟠🔵

“The cake is a lie.” The original Portal was a brilliant proof of concept. Portal 2 expanded it into a full-fledged masterpiece of game design, comedy, and storytelling. The portal gun mechanic is ingenious, and the puzzles are perfectly crafted to make you feel like a genius. But it’s the writing—the sarcastic wit of GLaDOS and the bumbling charm of Wheatley—that elevates it to legendary status. It’s one of the funniest, smartest games ever made.

17. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (CD Projekt Red, 2015): RPG Storytelling Apex 🐺

The Witcher 3 set a new standard for open-world RPGs. It wasn’t just the massive, beautiful world; it was the quality of the writing within it. Every side quest felt like a meaningful, handcrafted story, filled with morally grey choices that had real consequences. Geralt of Rivia’s famous quote, “If I’m to choose between one evil and another, I’d rather not choose at all,” perfectly encapsulates the game’s mature approach to fantasy.

18. Red Dead Redemption 2 (Rockstar Games, 2018): Western Epic Immersion 🤠

No game has ever felt more like a living world than Red Dead Redemption 2. The level of detail is simply staggering, from the way NPCs react to your presence to the intricate animations for every single action. It’s a slow, deliberate, and deeply melancholic story about the end of the outlaw era. Playing as Arthur Morgan is an unforgettable experience, a true high-water mark for character development and world-building in interactive entertainment.

Beyond the Best-Sellers: Cult Classics and Hidden Gems That Shaped Gaming


Video: Top 10 PlayStation 2 Games! – Which 10 PS2 games are my favourites for this classic gaming console!








A game doesn’t need to sell 100 million copies to be iconic. Some of the most influential titles were commercial disappointments or niche hits that inspired generations of developers.

Why Sales Aren’t Everything: The Art of Influence 🎨

Think of games like Ico (2001) or Shadow of the Colossus (2005). They weren’t massive sellers, but their minimalist design, emotional storytelling, and “design by subtraction” philosophy directly influenced masterpieces like The Last of Us and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Their influence far outweighs their sales figures.

Games That Pushed Boundaries (Even Without Mass Appeal) 🚧

  • System Shock 2 (1999): This terrifying sci-fi horror game blended FPS and RPG elements in a way that directly inspired the much more famous BioShock.
  • Chrono Trigger (1995): Widely considered one of the greatest JRPGs ever made, its time-traveling story, multiple endings, and lack of random encounters were years ahead of its time.
  • EarthBound (1994): A quirky, hilarious, and deeply emotional RPG set in a parody of suburban America. It flopped on release but gained a massive cult following that celebrates its unique charm to this day.

The Evolution of Gaming: From Pixels to Photorealism and Beyond


Video: The Ultimate Evolution of Video Game Graphics From Pixels to Photorealism.








The journey from the simple lines of Pong to the breathtaking vistas of Red Dead Redemption 2 is a story of relentless innovation. But it’s not just about graphics.

Technological Leaps and Bounds 💻

Every generation of hardware has unlocked new possibilities. The move from 2D to 3D was monumental. The introduction of CD-ROMs allowed for full-motion video and high-quality soundtracks. Today, technologies like ray tracing and ultra-fast SSDs are creating levels of realism and immersion we could only dream of a decade ago.

The Rise of Esports and Competitive Gaming 🏆

What started in arcades with high-score chasing has exploded into a global industry. Games like League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and Dota 2 fill stadiums and command prize pools worth millions of dollars. Pro gamers are now legitimate athletes, and competitive gaming is a viable career path, watched by hundreds of millions of fans on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.

Narrative Depth and Emotional Storytelling 📖

For a long time, stories in games were just an excuse for the action. “Your princess is in another castle!” Now, games are a leading medium for powerful, interactive storytelling. Developers like Naughty Dog (The Last of Us), and indie studios like Supergiant Games (Hades) are crafting narratives with complex characters, mature themes, and emotional weight that stick with you long after the credits roll.

Accessibility and Inclusivity in Modern Gaming 🤝

One of the most important evolutions is the push to make gaming for everyone. Companies like Microsoft with its Adaptive Controller, and developers who include extensive options for color blindness, subtitles, and control remapping are ensuring that more people than ever can enjoy this incredible hobby. It’s a beautiful thing to see.

Our Expert Picks: Games That Still Hold Up Today


Video: Top 10 PlayStation Games That Still Hold Up Today.








So, you’ve read the history, but what should you actually play? Here are a few picks from the Games Like™ team that are just as brilliant today as they were on release day.

Retro Replayability: Why Old is Gold 🌟

  • Super Metroid (1994): The atmosphere is unmatched. The world design is a masterclass in non-linear exploration. It’s the peak of 2D game design and still plays like a dream.
  • Chrono Trigger (1995): We mentioned it before, but it bears repeating. This JRPG is pure joy. The pacing is perfect, the story is fantastic, and it respects your time. It’s the perfect entry point into classic RPGs.
  • Tetris Effect: Connected (2018): This isn’t just Tetris; it’s Tetris as a transcendent audio-visual experience. It takes a perfect game and makes it a work of art. The cooperative and competitive online modes are fantastic.

Modern Masterpieces Worth Revisiting 🔄

  • Hades (2020): An action-roguelike that perfected the genre. The combat is fluid and satisfying, but the real genius is how it weaves its incredible story and character development into the repetitive loop of dying and trying again.
  • Disco Elysium (2019): Forget everything you know about RPGs. This is a combat-free detective game where your skills are parts of your own fractured psyche. It features some of the best writing in any medium, period. It’s a game you experience more than you play.
  • Outer Wilds (2019): Please, please play this game knowing as little as possible. It’s a game about curiosity and exploration, set in a miniature solar system trapped in a 22-minute time loop. Unraveling its central mystery is one of the most rewarding experiences in all of gaming.

Quick Tips for Exploring Gaming History

black crt tv turned on on brown wooden tv rack

Want to experience these classics for yourself? It’s easier than you think!

Emulation and Preservation Efforts 💾

Emulation allows you to play games from old consoles on modern hardware like a PC or smartphone. Projects like RetroArch and standalone emulators are fantastic tools for accessing gaming’s past. It’s a cornerstone of game preservation, ensuring these works of art aren’t lost to time.

Visiting Gaming Museums and Archives 🏛️

For a hands-on experience, check out a video game museum! Places like the National Videogame Museum in Frisco, Texas, or the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, have incredible exhibits where you can play classic arcade cabinets and consoles.

Connecting with Retro Gaming Communities 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

You’re not alone in your love for old games! Online communities like the r/retrogaming subreddit are fantastic places to share memories, get recommendations, and learn how to get classic hardware up and running. Dive in and share the passion

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Iconic Video Games

a woman and a child sitting on a couch playing a video game

What a journey! From the pixelated simplicity of Pong to the sprawling, photorealistic worlds of Red Dead Redemption 2, iconic video games have shaped not just an industry, but entire cultures. These games are more than entertainment—they are milestones of creativity, innovation, and human connection.

Throughout this article, we’ve explored how games like Super Mario Bros., Tetris, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Minecraft have set standards for gameplay, storytelling, and technological breakthroughs. We’ve seen how even lesser-known titles have influenced the art and craft of game design. And we’ve highlighted how modern gaming continues to honor and build upon these foundations.

If you’re wondering whether diving into classic games is worth your time, the answer is a resounding yes. These games not only offer timeless fun but also deepen your appreciation for the medium’s evolution. Plus, many modern titles borrow heavily from these classics, so understanding the past enriches your present gaming experience.

At Games Like™, we confidently recommend exploring these iconic titles—whether through original hardware, emulation, or remastered editions. They’re the roots from which today’s gaming giants have grown, and playing them is like shaking hands with history itself.

Ready to jump in? Check out our recommended shopping links below to start your own adventure through gaming’s most legendary moments!

Here are some handy shopping links to grab the games and resources mentioned, plus a few books to deepen your understanding of gaming history and design:

  • The Ultimate History of Video Games by Steven L. Kent — Amazon
  • Blood, Sweat, and Pixels by Jason Schreier — Amazon
  • Console Wars by Blake J. Harris — Amazon
  • Game Design Workshop by Tracy Fullerton — Amazon

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

A close up of a controller on a table

What are the most influential video games of all time?

The most influential games are those that introduced groundbreaking mechanics, storytelling, or cultural impact. Titles like Super Mario Bros., Tetris, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Minecraft have shaped the industry by setting new standards in gameplay, design, and player engagement. These games not only sold millions but also inspired countless developers and spawned entire genres.

Read more about “🎮 Top 27 Top Rated Video Games of All Time (2025 Edition)”

How have iconic video games impacted the gaming industry?

Iconic games have driven technological innovation, expanded gaming audiences, and transformed gaming into a mainstream cultural force. For example, Doom popularized first-person shooters and modding communities, Wii Sports brought casual gaming to the masses with motion controls, and Fortnite revolutionized live-service games and social interaction within games. These titles have influenced hardware design, marketing strategies, and even storytelling approaches.

Many classics like Tetris, Street Fighter II, Pac-Man, and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim maintain vibrant player bases thanks to their timeless gameplay and community support. Remasters, re-releases, and active modding communities keep these games fresh and accessible. Additionally, games like Minecraft and Pokémon continue to thrive with new content and player engagement.

Read more about “🎮 The 29 Most Popular Video Games of the Last Decade (2025)”

What makes a video game an iconic and memorable experience?

An iconic game combines innovative gameplay mechanics, memorable characters and worlds, cultural resonance, technological breakthroughs, and lasting replayability. It often introduces something new or perfects an existing formula in a way that resonates deeply with players. Emotional storytelling and community impact also contribute to a game’s iconic status.

Read more about “Which Is the Most Like Game? Top 10 Classics & Hidden Gems (2025) 🎮”

Can playing classic video games influence the type of games I enjoy now?

Absolutely! Playing classics provides context for modern game design and can deepen your appreciation for gameplay mechanics, storytelling, and artistic styles. Many modern games pay homage to or build upon ideas pioneered by classics, so understanding those roots can enrich your gaming experience and help you discover new favorites.

How do modern games pay homage to iconic video games in history?

Modern games often include references, mechanics, or aesthetics inspired by classics. For example, indie titles like Shovel Knight echo the pixel art and platforming of Super Mario Bros., while Hollow Knight draws from Metroid and Castlevania. Developers also incorporate Easter eggs, remakes, spiritual successors, and narrative nods to beloved games, creating a rich tapestry that honors gaming heritage.

What are some modern games that resemble the iconic video games of the past?

  • Shovel Knight channels the spirit of 8-bit platformers like Mega Man and Castlevania.
  • Hades blends roguelike mechanics with deep storytelling reminiscent of classic RPGs.
  • Celeste offers challenging platforming with emotional narrative echoes of older side-scrollers.
  • Stardew Valley revives the farming sim genre popularized by Harvest Moon.
  • Cuphead pays tribute to 1930s cartoons and classic run-and-gun games.

Explore our Adventure and Action categories for more games inspired by the classics!

Ready to dive into the classics or find games like your favorites? At Games Like™, we’re here to guide you through every pixel and polygon of gaming history! 🎮✨

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob is a game developer turned editor who leads GamesLike.org with a builder’s eye for systems, balance, and “feel.” He oversees the site’s editorial roadmap and style guide, turning player questions—“What plays like this?”—into clear, cross-platform recommendations. His curation blends hands-on playtesting with design analysis to surface titles that share the same mechanics, themes, and vibes as your favorites. You’ll see that approach across GamesLike.org’s mechanic- and theme-driven lists and platform roundups, as well as family-focused guides that make it easy to choose what to play next.

At GamesLike.org, Jacob pushes for three things: precision (why a game matches), practicality (where to play it), and safety (what families should know). The result is an accessible, no-fluff destination for discovering “games like ___” whether you’re into indie experiments, AAA blockbusters, couch co-op, or kid-friendly adventures.

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