The TurboGrafx 16 may not be as well-known as some other consoles, but it has a special place in gaming history.
It brought us some unforgettable games that are still loved today. If you’re looking to find the best titles on this console, you’re in the right place.
I’ve put together a list of the top games that every TurboGrafx-16 fan should play.
If you’re into action, platformers, RPGs, or shoot ’em ups, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Finding great games can be tough with so many options. That’s why I’ve picked out the classics and hidden gems that are definitely worth your time.
I’ll make sure you get a mix of popular picks and some underrated favorites to try.
You won’t have to search any longer for the best TurboGrafx-16 games!
What Makes a TurboGrafx-16 Game Great?
The best TurboGrafx-16 games are all about offering something special.
The graphics were impressive for their time, often bringing vibrant and colorful worlds to life. The soundtracks were just as memorable, setting the tone for every adventure.
Above all, what truly makes these games great is the fun factor. They keep players coming back, offering challenges and rewarding gameplay.
Some of these titles even helped shape future game designs, making them essential for any gaming collection.
Key Features of Great TurboGrafx-16 Games:
- Exciting and fun gameplay
- Unique and memorable characters
- Impressive graphics for the time
- Catchy soundtracks
- Challenging levels with rewards
- Creativity that sets trends in gaming
Best TurboGrafx-16 Games You Must Play
The TurboGrafx-16 may not have had the largest game library, but its titles are memorable and filled with unique experiences.
1. Bonk’s Adventure
Bonk’s Adventure is one of the most iconic platformers on the TurboGrafx-16.
Players control Bonk, a lovable caveman who uses his head to defeat enemies and navigate vibrant levels.
The game stands out for its fun mechanics and colorful graphics. Bonk’s ability to headbutt enemies, smash obstacles, and collect power-ups keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting.
The variety of stages and the humorous tone of the game make it a classic that remains fun to play even today.
2. R-Type
R-Type is a side-scrolling shoot ‘em up that has become one of the most beloved titles in the genre.
Known for its challenging difficulty and strategic gameplay, R-Type requires players to carefully manage their weapons and position to defeat waves of enemies and massive bosses.
The game’s unique force system allows players to attach a floating pod to their ship, giving them extra firepower or protection.
With impressive visuals for its time, R-Type is a standout that has influenced many later shoot ’em ups.
3. Ninja Spirit
Ninja Spirit is a fast-paced action game where you control a skilled ninja fighting through a series of enemies.
The game’s combat is incredibly smooth, with players using various weapons like shurikens and katana swords to defeat enemies.
Each level is filled with challenging enemies and powerful bosses, requiring players to master the game’s mechanics.
With its impressive graphics and intense action, Ninja Spirit remains a fan favorite for fans of ninja-themed games and action-packed gameplay.
4. Castlevania: Rondo of Blood
Castlevania: Rondo of Blood is one of the most highly praised games in the Castlevania series.
As Richter Belmont, players fight through eerie castles filled with supernatural creatures and powerful bosses.
The game features tight platforming mechanics, excellent combat, and some of the most memorable music in gaming history.
The levels are beautifully designed, and the game offers multiple routes and unlockables, making it highly replayable.
Rondo of Blood is often considered one of the best action platformers ever made.
5. Splatterhouse
Splatterhouse is a beat ‘em up game with a horror twist.
Players take on the role of Rick, a man who must fight his way through a haunted mansion filled with creepy monsters and disturbing bosses.
The game is notorious for its violent and gruesome visuals, making it a standout in the genre.
The challenging combat and intense atmosphere keep players engaged, and the horror theme gives it a unique feel compared to other beat ‘em ups.
Fans of both horror and beat ‘em ups will enjoy this cult classic.
6. Air Zonk
Air Zonk is a quirky shoot ‘em up that stands out for its lighthearted tone and unique characters.
Players control Zonk, a cybernetic character, as he flies through vibrant, colorful levels and battles a variety of enemies.
The game is packed with power-ups, creative weapons, and amusing enemies, offering a fun, fast-paced gameplay experience.
Air Zonk’s whimsical design and humor make it a standout title on the TurboGrafx-16 and a great choice for fans looking for a more lighthearted take on the shoot ‘em up genre.
7. Dungeon Explorer
Dungeon Explorer is an action RPG that supports co-op multiplayer, making it a great choice for friends to play together.
Players choose from different characters and team up to explore dungeons, fight monsters, and collect loot.
The game’s top-down view and simple combat mechanics make it easy to pick up and play, while the deeper RPG elements keep things interesting.
With its engaging multiplayer experience, Dungeon Explorer offers a fun and rewarding adventure for fans of dungeon crawlers and cooperative gameplay.
8. Lords of Thunder
Lords of Thunder is a unique blend of fantasy and sci-fi, offering players an epic shoot ‘em up experience.
Set to an incredible heavy metal soundtrack, the game lets players control a powerful warrior who must defeat enemies using both magic and powerful weapons.
The game’s intense action, challenging bosses, and stunning visuals make it a standout on the TurboGrafx-16.
Its blend of fantasy elements and high-energy gameplay, along with the fantastic music, makes it one of the most memorable shoot ‘em ups of its time.
9. Ys Book I & II
Ys Book I & II is an iconic action RPG that set the standard for the genre.
With its fast-paced combat system and rich story, it immerses players in the adventure of Adol Christin, a young hero on a quest to save the land of Esteria.
The game combines exploration, dungeon crawling, and real-time combat in a way that keeps players hooked.
The beautiful music, great character development, and exciting gameplay make Ys Book I & II a must-play for RPG fans and a cornerstone of the TurboGrafx-16 library.
10. The Legendary Axe
The Legendary Axe is a hack-and-slash platformer that offers a thrilling action experience.
Players control Gilius, a mighty warrior on a quest to defeat evil forces and save his people.
The game features tight combat, smooth platforming, and well-designed levels that challenge players to master its mechanics.
Its impressive graphics and powerful soundtrack add to the experience, making it one of the most memorable platformers on the TurboGrafx-16.
If you enjoy action-packed hack-and-slash games, The Legendary Axe is a must-play.
11. Keith Courage in Alpha Zones
Keith Courage in Alpha Zones was the pack-in game for the TurboGrafx-16, and it offers a unique mix of platforming and mecha combat.
Players take on the role of Keith, a young hero who must battle evil forces in both his human form and inside a powerful mech suit.
The game’s colorful graphics and challenging gameplay make it an enjoyable experience, especially for fans of action-platformers.
While it may not have the same fame as other titles, Keith Courage offers a fun and nostalgic look at early TurboGrafx-16 games.
12. Shinobi
Shinobi is a fast-paced ninja action game where players control a skilled ninja tasked with rescuing hostages and defeating powerful enemies.
The game features smooth controls, fun combat mechanics, and exciting levels filled with traps and enemies.
Players can throw shurikens, perform powerful martial arts moves, and fight against various enemies as they work through each level.
The game’s engaging action and great level design make it a standout title for fans of ninja-themed games and action-packed gameplay.
13. Bomberman ’93
Bomberman ’93 is a classic multiplayer game where players plant bombs to defeat their rivals.
The goal is to outsmart and outlast your opponents by strategically placing bombs to block them and blow them up.
The simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with vibrant graphics, makes it a great choice for friends looking for fun multiplayer action.
The game’s variety of power-ups and levels keeps things fresh, making Bomberman ’93 a standout in the series and one of the best multiplayer experiences on the TurboGrafx-16.
14. Blazing Lazers
Blazing Lazers is a top-tier shoot ‘em up that stands out for its fast-paced gameplay and variety of weapons.
Players control a spaceship as they battle through waves of enemies and face off against massive bosses.
The game offers excellent controls, a variety of power-ups, and a challenging difficulty curve that keeps players on their toes.
The graphics are impressive for the time, and the action is non-stop, making Blazing Lazers one of the most exciting and memorable shooters on the TurboGrafx-16.
15. Super Star Soldier
Super Star Soldier is a shoot ‘em up that combines fast action, great visuals, and tight controls.
Players navigate through various levels filled with enemies and obstacles, using a variety of weapons to destroy everything in their path.
The game’s challenging difficulty, combined with its impressive graphics and smooth gameplay, makes it a standout title for fans of shoot ‘em ups.
Super Star Soldier’s high-speed action and replayability ensure it remains one of the best games in the genre on the TurboGrafx-16.
16. Turbografx-16 Pack-In: Final Lap Twin
Final Lap Twin is a unique racing game that blends traditional racing with RPG elements.
Players race through various tracks, earning points and upgrading their vehicles while also experiencing light RPG mechanics, such as character progression and item collection.
The game offers both single-player and multiplayer modes, making it a fun experience whether you’re playing solo or with friends.
Final Lap Twin’s combination of racing and RPG elements makes it one of the most original games on the TurboGrafx-16.
17. Military Madness
Military Madness is a turn-based strategy game that tasks players with commanding units in battle.
Players move units across a map, capturing territories and defeating enemy forces using strategy and careful planning.
The game’s tactical depth, combined with its accessible gameplay, makes it easy to pick up but challenging to master.
The innovative use of terrain, different unit types, and various strategies gives Military Madness a unique appeal for fans of strategy games.
It remains one of the best tactical games on the TurboGrafx-16.
18. Riot Zone
Riot Zone is a side-scrolling beat ‘em up game that features fast-paced combat and a variety of enemies.
Players control a character named Sid, who must fight his way through the streets to save his friends and take down a criminal organization.
The game features combos, special attacks, and challenging enemies, offering a rewarding experience for beat ‘em up fans.
The game’s colorful graphics and intense combat make it a fun and engaging title, perfect for fans of classic side-scrolling brawlers.
19. Vasteel
Vasteel is a strategy RPG that offers a unique blend of tactical combat and storytelling.
Players take control of a hero named Gil, who must navigate a world filled with dangerous foes and complex political intrigue.
The game features grid-based combat, where positioning and strategy are key to winning battles.
With its engaging story, memorable characters, and challenging combat mechanics, Vasteel offers a deep and rewarding experience for fans of tactical RPGs.
The game’s intricate world-building and strategic depth make it one of the more underrated gems on the TurboGrafx-16.
20. Psychic Storm
Psychic Storm is a shoot ‘em up that mixes fast-paced action with a gripping story.
Players control a powerful spaceship that must battle through waves of enemies in space, all while uncovering a deep narrative about intergalactic war.
The game’s stunning visuals and intense combat make it stand out among other shooters of the time.
Psychic Storm’s combination of action and storytelling sets it apart from other titles in the genre, and its challenging gameplay will keep players coming back for more.
21. Valis III
Valis III is a side-scrolling action platformer that brings anime-inspired visuals and a captivating story.
Players control a heroine named Yuko, who must defeat powerful enemies and save her world from evil forces.
The game features smooth combat mechanics, great level design, and boss fights that require strategy to overcome.
Valis III stands out for its beautiful art style, great music, and engaging action sequences.
Fans of platformers and anime-style games will find a lot to love about this title.
22. Takin’ It to the Hoop
Takin’ It to the Hoop is an arcade-style basketball game that offers fast-paced gameplay and fun multiplayer action.
Players can choose from a variety of teams and compete in 2-on-2 basketball games.
The simple controls and easy-to-learn mechanics make it a great choice for casual play, while the fast pace keeps the action exciting.
Whether playing alone or with friends, Takin’ It to the Hoop offers a fun and competitive experience for sports game fans.
23. Master of Dark Illusions
Master of Dark Illusions is a creepy adventure game with a unique atmosphere and puzzle-solving mechanics.
Players take on the role of a young hero trying to escape a nightmare world filled with dark magic and eerie creatures.
The game blends platforming, puzzles, and combat to create a tense and immersive experience.
The haunting soundtrack and gothic visuals add to the eerie feeling, making it a standout for fans of horror-themed games.
Its unique mix of gameplay and atmosphere makes it a must-play for those looking for something different.
24. World Class Baseball
World Class Baseball is a simple yet enjoyable baseball game that captures the essence of the sport.
Players can choose from different teams and compete in a fast-paced, action-packed game of baseball.
The game features easy-to-learn controls, making it accessible for players of all ages.
While it may not have the depth of modern sports games, World Class Baseball offers a fun and nostalgic experience for fans of the genre.
It’s perfect for casual gaming or multiplayer fun with friends.
25. Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III
Parasol Stars is a colorful and creative puzzle platformer that continues the beloved Bubble Bobble series.
Players control two characters, Bob and Bub, who use parasols to defeat enemies and solve puzzles across various levels.
The game is known for its fun mechanics, challenging puzzles, and vibrant visuals.
The levels are packed with creative obstacles and enemies, making each stage feel fresh and exciting.
Fans of the Bubble Bobble series will find Parasol Stars to be a worthy addition to the franchise.
26. Pac-Land
Pac-Land is a unique platformer that takes Pac-Man on an adventure through colorful levels filled with challenges.
Unlike traditional Pac-Man games, Pac-Land features side-scrolling gameplay where Pac-Man must jump over obstacles, avoid enemies, and collect items.
The game’s bright graphics and cheerful tone make it a fun experience for all ages.
While it may not have the same level of depth as other platformers, its simple and enjoyable gameplay makes it a great choice for fans of classic arcade games.
27. Dragon’s Curse
Dragon’s Curse is an action RPG that combines exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving in an exciting adventure.
Players control a knight who is transformed into a dragon, gaining new abilities and powers along the way.
The game features a mix of dungeon crawling, platforming, and battling enemies. With its beautiful art style, challenging gameplay, and interesting story,
Dragon’s Curse is a standout action RPG. It offers a unique twist on the genre and is a must-play for fans of classic RPGs.
28. Heavy Unit
Heavy Unit is a shoot ‘em up that lets players control a futuristic mech as they battle their way through various levels.
The game’s unique feature is its ability to switch between land and air combat, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.
Players must navigate through waves of enemies, utilizing different weapons and upgrades to stay alive.
The game’s fast-paced action and unique mechanics make it an enjoyable experience for fans of shoot ‘em ups and mech combat games.
29. Wonder Boy III: The Dragon’s Trap
Wonder Boy III: The Dragon’s Trap is a standout action-adventure game with great platforming elements.
Players control Wonder Boy, who has been transformed into a dragon and must navigate through various stages to return to his human form.
The game is known for its beautiful hand-drawn art, engaging exploration, and innovative transformation mechanics.
Each form the character takes has unique abilities, adding variety and excitement to the gameplay.
It’s a classic that offers a perfect blend of adventure, platforming, and RPG elements, making it a must-try on the TurboGrafx-16.
30. Gokujou Parodius Deluxe Pack
Gokujou Parodius Deluxe Pack is a wacky, colorful shoot ‘em up that is part of the Parodius series.
The game combines fast-paced action with a sense of humor, offering unique levels, funny enemies, and creative power-ups.
Players control a variety of characters, each with their own abilities, as they blast their way through outrageous levels.
The game’s quirky design, over-the-top action, and fun gameplay make it a standout in the genre.
Fans of Gradius and other shoot ‘em ups will love this hilarious and action-packed adventure.
31. Neutopia II
Neutopia II is a classic action RPG that follows the adventures of a young hero as he explores dungeons, fights monsters, and solves puzzles.
The game’s mechanics are similar to Zelda, with players using a sword and shield to battle enemies, solve puzzles, and uncover secrets.
Neutopia II features a captivating story, engaging combat, and memorable characters, making it a must-play for RPG fans.
The game’s beautiful art style and exciting gameplay keep players hooked from start to finish, making it one of the best RPGs on the TurboGrafx-16.
Tips for New TurboGrafx-16 Players
- Getting Started with the Console or Emulation: Use original hardware or try emulators like Mednafen or RetroArch. Modern options like the TurboGrafx-16 Mini or platforms like Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 make it easy to play classic games.
- Must-Try Games for Beginners: Start with Bonk’s Adventure, R-Type, Castlevania: Rondo of Blood, Air Zonk, and Dungeon Explorer.
- Collecting Tips and Where to Find Rare Titles: Find rare games on eBay, retro stores, or thrift shops. Join gaming communities for tips and start with popular titles like Ys Book I & II and Bonk’s Adventure.
Conclusion
The TurboGrafx-16 may not be the most famous console, but its games are still some of the most fun and unique out there.
From platformers to shoot ‘em ups, there’s a little something for every type of gamer.
I hope this list helps you find the best games to play, whether you’re using original hardware, emulators, or modern re-releases.
These games are not only a blast to play, but they also offer a glimpse into the history of gaming.
If you’re just starting out, don’t worry-there are plenty of great titles that are perfect for beginners.
And if you’re a collector, there are still rare gems out there waiting to be found.
