The video games in the ’80s were unique. Every major game developer tried to create something new for the people. Every game had its own unique style, essence, and feel. We have come a long way from a 2D platform game, but occasionally everybody feels like going down memory lane or trying a game to see what’s unique. It’s 2023, and we list the best 80’s game you can play on Android or iOS devices.
Super Mario Bros.
It will be almost 40 years since the launch of Super Mario Bros. The significant part is that it’s still going strong. It was first released in 1985 and has been one of the most influential games by Nintendo. We all jumped into the wagon to try and save the princess in the Mushroom Kingdom. The game is famous for its innovative gameplay and catchy music. I still remember the music when he gets defeated. Since its launch, we have seen different game iterations, and a new movie came.
Tetris
I first played this game in a handheld gaming console. The block of different shapes fall down, and we need to align them quickly to create a line. It vanishes when the line is completed, and the next set of blocks falls. The game was first introduced in 1984 and have been updated to various version since then. It is famous for its simplicity and is among the best games ever created.
Pac-Man
Pac-Man is a chase game in a maze. A yellow circle with a mouth is being chased by ghosts and has to eat power pellets to destroy the spirits. Creator Toru Iwatani wanted to create a game that was simple but challenging. The game was a huge success and has been ported to other platforms like game consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. The game was also adapted into many movies.
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong was released by Nintendo in 1981. It is still one of the best arcade platform games in the market. The gamer plays as the character Mario, who tries to save Pauline, captured by Donkey Kong. Kong throws barrels, and the player must jump across them and reach the top to save Pauline. Donkey Kong goes higher with each level, and the player needs to follow to rescue. It’s also one of the most famous games, with a big franchise.
Contra
Contra has been one of the best run-and-gun games. It was first launched in 1987 by Konami. Whenever I played Contra, it reminded me of Rambo and Predator. It is a single and multiplayer game where players take control of Bill Rizer and Lance Bean as commandos. These commandos fight through to stop an alien invasion. It’s a must for those who love shooting and fast-paced games.
Galaga
Now, think of the movie Independence Day. Where the main character flies on a fighter jet to take down the alien invaders. Galaga does the same but as a fixed arcade shooting style. In the game, the player controls the starship and takes down aliens. You can also power up spaceship skills by capturing enemy spaceships. One of the best games, where you are hit by waves of enemies and boss battles.
Frogger
Frogger was an exciting game where you must guide a frog to cross busy roads and rivers. With each level, it gets challenging as you try to help cross the frog. Each level has different hazards; you must quickly get them before losing all three lives. The game seems simple, but it needs good reflexes and timing. The new version of Frogger which is very famous now is the Crossy Road.
These games are all critically acclaimed and commercially successful, and they helped to shape the video game industry as we know it today. They are still enjoyed by gamers of all ages and continue inspiring new generations of game developers.
