Retro’s Top 5: The Most Influential Retro Games of the 1980s

The 1980s was a pivotal decade for the gaming industry, marked by the rise of home consoles, the birth of iconic characters, and the creation of genres that would shape the industry for years to come. Among the many influential games that emerged during this era, some stood out for their innovative gameplay, captivating storylines, and lasting impact. In this article, we’ll be counting down the top 5 most influential retro games of the 1980s.

5. Castlevania (1986)
Developed by Konami, Castlevania is a gothic action-adventure game that revolutionized the platformer genre. Its non-linear level design, atmospheric music, and relentless difficulty made it a staple of 8-bit gaming. Castlevania’s success spawned a beloved franchise, with numerous sequels and spin-offs, and its influence can be seen in many modern action-adventure games.

4. The Legend of Zelda (1986)
Shigeru Miyamoto’s The Legend of Zelda is a classic action-RPG that redefined the boundaries of interactive storytelling. Its non-linear design, exploration mechanics, and emphasis on puzzle-solving set a new standard for the genre. The game’s impact can be seen in countless RPGs and action games since, including the now-iconic "open-world" design.

3. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
Super Mario Bros. is one of the most influential games of all time, and its launch on the NES in 1985 catapulted the console to success. Mario’s precision platforming, colorful graphics, and charming music created a sense of immersion and fun that resonated with gamers worldwide. The game’s success also popularized the concept of power-ups, Goomba-stomping, and Warp Pipes, cementing Mario’s place as an iconic character.

2. Contra (1987)
Konami’s Contra is a run-and-gun action game that perfected the blend of tight gameplay, challenging difficulty, and addicting co-op multiplayer. Its one-two punch of cooperation and unparalleled difficulty set a new standard for action games, influencing titles like Streets of Rage and metal Slug. Contra’s influence can also be seen in the co-op play and challenging level design of modern games like Machine Gun Bastard and Cuphead.

1. Pac-Man (1980)
Pac-Man is the most influential game of the 1980s, and arguably the most iconic character in gaming. Toru Iwatani’s creation, originally called "Puki-Man," was a cultural phenomenon that conquered the globe. Its maze-based gameplay, simple yet addictive mechanics, and cute characters made it a staple of arcades and home consoles. Pac-Man’s influence can be seen in countless puzzle and arcade games since, including the now-ubiquitous "run-and-gather" mechanic.

These five games have left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, shaping genres, gameplay, and character design. Their influence can be seen in many modern games, from the cartoonish platforming of Sonic the Hedgehog to the action-RPG elements of Dark Souls. The 1980s may be behind us, but the legacy of these pioneering games will continue to shape the world of gaming for years to come.