Retro Gaming: A Guide to Vintage Video Games

The allure of many classic console games has been persistent over the years thanks to simple story lines and engaging gameplay. Many retro video games are still considered to be some of the best video games ever made, like 1988’s Super Mario Bros. 3 and 1985’s Tetris. ^1,2 There are a variety of ways to play retro games intended for gaming consoles, including:

• Remastered editions and remakes. If a successful video was so popular that there is still a demand for it, there are usually remastered editions or remakes available.
• Newer consoles with backward compatibility. The PS5 and Xbox Series X both boast backward compatibility, which lets you play your older games on the latest generation consoles.
• Retro gaming consoles. Since retro games don’t require a lot of computing power, various classic gaming consoles exist that have older games programmed into them. Whether they are handheld or require a TV, classic consoles typically cater to a specific game or brand, like the classic Atari system or Nintendo's original The Legend of Zelda.
• Digital back catalogs. PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo all offer membership programs that allow you to play back catalogs of classic games. Nintendo Switch retro games even include original titles from Game Boy and Game Boy Advance.
• Original console. Although they are becoming more rare, older video games can still be played with the original hardware, assuming that the original console still works.

Classic arcade games are being manufactured again, letting you feel like you’ve been transported back to the early 1980s. You can fend off waves of alien enemies in Galaga or eat as many dots as you can with Ms. Pac-Man. Whether you were there and are craving some nostalgic fun or you are just curious to see what gaming was like over a quarter of a century ago, arcade games provide a unique experience for everybody. Key distinctions that set arcade gaming apart from video game consoles include:

• Distinct visual and audio style. The chiptune music that delivers 8-bit synthesized sounds and the pixelated graphics with dynamic colors both contribute to the unique experience of playing an arcade game.
• Multiplayer competition. Arcade games promote more social behavior by encouraging gamers to play with others.
• Challenging gameplay. Quick reflexes, precise timing and strategic thinking are all necessary when playing arcade games. Plus, more difficult gameplay ultimately provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment when you finally reach your high score.
• Simplicity. Though gameplay can be challenging, straightforward and easy to understand mechanics contribute to the simplistic and equally addictive nature of arcade games.
• Historical significance. Arcade games represent a specific moment in time, showcasing the best of what gaming technology once had to offer. Creative and technological limitations of the time helped craft some truly unique games that are not only still enjoyable, but also help you appreciate how far gaming as advanced over the years.
• Nostalgia. Seeing the graphics before you and hearing the music evokes a deep sense of nostalgia for those who grew up playing arcade games, bring them back to their childhoods.

Retro video games were never designed to be shown on high-definition TVs, but that is how they are currently presented in this digital age. However, high contrast, brightness, deep colors and enhanced sound make older video games even more captivating thanks to impressive audio and visual advancements. Moreso, many retro video games have been slightly improved from their original versions with some modern conveniences, like the ability to save game progress and screenshot and rewind capabilities. Whether you are looking for a fun retro gift for a friend or you are in need of a new hobby for yourself, playing vintage games in the modern era is an enjoyable and equally rewarding experience.

Not only is retro gaming back, but it is seemingly better than ever thanks to widespread accessibility, remastered editions and enhanced functionality. Both longtime gamers looking for a little nostalgic fun and newcomers interested in exploring the heyday of classic video games can gain something from playing retro games.

1. Colantonio, Giovanni, Tomas Franzese and Sam Hill. “The 50 Best Video Games of All Time.” Digital Trends Media Group, a Designtechnica Company. May 5, 2023. https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/50-best-games-of-all-time/.

2. Farrell, Paul. “Revealed: The 100 Greatest Video Games of All Time, Ranked by Experts.” Daily Mail, Associated Newspapers Ltd. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12069575/The-100-greatest-video-games-time-ranked-experts.html.