The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) holds a special place in gaming history.
Released in 1985, it revolutionized the gaming industry and introduced many of us to unforgettable characters, innovative gameplay, and endless fun.
Over the years, the NES amassed a library of incredible games that have stood the test of time. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the top NES games that every gamer should know.
I’ve compiled a list based on community votes, editorial opinions, and data to highlight the best games ever released on the NES.
What are NES Classics?
The NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) revolutionized the gaming industry when it was released in 1985, offering an unforgettable gaming experience that would define generations.
With its impressive library of games, the NES introduced some of the most iconic titles in gaming history.
From platformers like Super Mario Bros. to groundbreaking RPGs like Final Fantasy, the NES set the standard for video game development.
Games on this console were not just entertainment; they were an integral part of childhood for many, offering both challenge and excitement.
The NES helped shape modern gaming culture, introducing concepts like side-scrolling platformers, intricate storylines, and multiplayer experiences.
Top NES Games
These iconic and influential NES games helped shape the world of gaming, offering thrilling gameplay, memorable characters, and groundbreaking mechanics.
1. Super Mario Bros. 3
Super Mario Bros. 3 is a classic platformer where Mario and Luigi travel across eight worlds to rescue Princess Toadstool from Bowser. The game introduced power-ups like the Super Leaf, which lets Mario fly.
With creative levels, secret paths, and colorful graphics, it’s often called one of the greatest video games of all time.
2. The Legend of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda is an adventure game where you play as Link, a hero on a quest to rescue Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Ganon. Players find dungeons, solve puzzles, and collect items.
Its open world and sense of experiencing made it a groundbreaking game, inspiring countless other adventure games over the years.
3. Super Mario Bros.
Super Mario Bros. is the game that made Mario a household name. Players control Mario or Luigi as they run and jump through the Mushroom Kingdom, dodging enemies and collecting coins.
The simple yet challenging gameplay, catchy music, and memorable levels helped make it one of the most influential games ever made.
4. Mega Man 2
Mega Man 2 is a fast-paced action platformer where you play as Mega Man, battling eight Robot Masters and their evil creator, Dr. Wily.
Each boss gives you a new weapon, adding strategy to the gameplay. Its tight controls, great music, and creative level design make it a fan favorite in the Mega Man series.
5. Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse
Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse is an action-platformer where you play as Trevor Belmont, a vampire hunter. You can choose different paths and recruit allies with unique abilities.
The game is known for its challenging gameplay, gothic atmosphere, and branching storylines, making it a standout entry in the Castlevania series.
6. Metroid
Metroid is an action-adventure game starring Samus Aran, a bounty hunter, who finds the planet Zebes to defeat the evil Mother Brain.
The game features non-linear gameplay, power-ups that unlock new areas, and a mysterious sci-fi setting. Its open-ended gameplay and hidden secrets set the stage for the popular “Metroidvania” genre.
7. Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!!
Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!! is a boxing game where you play as Little Mac, an underdog fighter working his way up the ranks.
Each opponent has unique patterns and weaknesses, making every match a puzzle. The game is famous for its colorful characters, catchy music, and the final showdown against Mike Tyson himself.
8. Dragon Quest
Dragon Quest is a classic role-playing game where you play as a hero on a quest to save the kingdom from the evil Dragonlord.
Players find towns, fight monsters, and level up to gain new abilities. Its simple turn-based battles and charming story helped shape the RPG genre, especially in Japan.
9. Bionic Commando
Bionic Commando is an action platformer where you play as a soldier with a bionic arm that lets you swing across gaps and climb walls.
Instead of jumping, you use your arm to navigate tricky levels and defeat enemies. Its unique gameplay and challenging stages make it a memorable NES experience.
10. DuckTales
DuckTales is a platformer based on the popular Disney cartoon. You play as Scrooge McDuck, traveling the world to collect treasures and save his nephews.
The game is known for its fun pogo-jumping mechanic, catchy music, and colorful graphics. It’s a beloved classic that’s enjoyable for both kids and adults.
11. Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy is a role-playing game where you guide four heroes, called the Light Warriors, on a quest to save the world from darkness.
You choose their classes and find a vast world filled with monsters, dungeons, and magic. Its deep story and turn-based battles helped define the RPG genre and started a legendary franchise.
12. Contra
Contra is a run-and-gun action game famous for its fast-paced gameplay and cooperative two-player mode.
Players control commandos fighting through enemy-filled stages, dodging bullets, and collecting power-ups.
The game is known for its challenging difficulty and the famous Konami Code, which gives players extra lives. Contra remains a favorite among fans of classic action games.
13. R.C. Pro-Am
R.C. Pro-Am is a top-down racing game where you control remote-controlled cars on winding tracks. Players collect power-ups, avoid hazards, and compete against computer opponents.
The game features tight controls, fun upgrades, and addictive gameplay. Its simple yet competitive racing action made it a standout title for NES fans.
14. Excitebike
Excitebike is a motocross racing game where players race against the clock or other riders on challenging dirt tracks. You can perform wheelies, avoid obstacles, and even design your own tracks.
Its simple controls and creative course editor made it a popular and innovative racing game for the NES.
15. River City Ransom
River City Ransom is a beat ‘em up game with RPG elements. Players control high school students Alex and Ryan as they fight through gangs to rescue a kidnapped girlfriend.
The game features an open world, upgradable stats, and humorous dialogue. Its mix of action and character progression made it a cult classic.
16. Mega Man 3
Mega Man 3 continues the adventures of the blue robot hero as he battles new Robot Masters and faces his rival, Proto Man.
The game introduces the slide move, adding a new strategy to the platforming action. With memorable music, creative bosses, and challenging stages, Mega Man 3 is a fan favorite in the series.
17. Ninja Gaiden
Ninja Gaiden is an action platformer starring Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja on a mission to avenge his father. The game is known for its fast-paced gameplay, cinematic cutscenes, and challenging difficulty.
Players use acrobatics and ninja weapons to defeat enemies. Ninja Gaiden’s story and intense action set a new standard for NES games.
18. Super Mario Bros. 2
Super Mario Bros. 2 is a unique entry in the Mario series, featuring four playable characters with different abilities. Players pick up and throw objects instead of stomping on enemies.
Its colorful graphics, creative level design, and memorable bosses make it a fun and distinctive Mario adventure.
19. Castlevania
Castlevania is a gothic action platformer where you play as Simon Belmont, a vampire hunter armed with a whip. Players battle through Dracula’s castle, facing classic monsters and tough bosses.
The game is known for its challenging gameplay, atmospheric music, and spooky setting, making it a defining title for the NES.
20. Kid Icarus
Kid Icarus is an action-platformer where you play as Pit, an angel trying to rescue the goddess Palutena. The game combines platforming, shooting, and RPG elements as you find dangerous levels and collect power-ups.
Its unique blend of gameplay styles and mythological theme made Kid Icarus a memorable NES adventure.
21. Crystalis
Crystalis is an action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic world. You play as a hero awakened from cryogenic sleep to stop an evil empire.
The game features real-time combat, magic spells, and an engaging story. Its detailed world and mix of action and RPG elements make it a standout title on the NES.
22. Mega Man 4
Mega Man 4 continues the classic series with new weapons and the introduction of the charge shot, allowing Mega Man to power up his attacks.
The game has challenging levels and bosses, tight controls, and memorable music. It’s a must-play for fans of action platformers and the Mega Man franchise.
23. Double Dragon II: The Revenge
Double Dragon II is a side-scrolling beat ‘em up where brothers Billy and Jimmy Lee fight to save Marian from a gang. The game features improved combat moves, two-player co-op, and tougher enemies.
Its fun gameplay and cooperative mode made it one of the best beat ‘em ups on the NES.
24. Blaster Master
Blaster Master is a unique mix of side-scrolling action and top-down gameplay. You control a tank called SOPHIA and its driver, Jason, as they battle mutants underground.
The game is known for its creative level design, challenging gameplay, and for combining different play styles in one adventure.
25. Bubble Bobble
Bubble Bobble is a charming platformer where you play as two dragons, Bub and Bob, who trap enemies in bubbles and pop them.
The game has 100 levels filled with cute enemies and power-ups. Its cooperative two-player mode and catchy music make it a timeless classic.
26. Batman: The Video Game
Batman: The Video Game is an action platformer based on the 1989 movie. You play as Batman, fighting criminals and bosses across Gotham City.
The game features tight controls, challenging levels, and a dark atmosphere that captures the movie’s tone well.
27. Tecmo Bowl
Tecmo Bowl is a football game known for its simple controls and fast-paced gameplay. It features real NFL teams and players, making it one of the first sports games to include real teams.
Its fun multiplayer mode and easy-to-learn mechanics made it a favorite among sports fans.
28. Kirby’s Adventure
Kirby’s Adventure is a colorful platformer starring Kirby, a pink puffball who can inhale enemies and copy their powers. The game introduced smooth scrolling graphics and creative level design.
Its fun gameplay and charming visuals make it one of the best NES platformers.
29. Life Force
Life Force is a shoot ‘em up where players pilot a spaceship through alien environments. The game features cooperative play, power-ups, and challenging bosses.
Its fast action and sci-fi setting make it a thrilling experience for fans of classic shooters.
30. StarTropics
StarTropics is an action-adventure game with a tropical island setting. You play as Mike Jones, searching for his missing uncle while solving puzzles and fighting enemies.
The game combines visiting, item collection, and a fun story, making it a unique NES adventure.
31. Dr. Mario
Dr. Mario is a puzzle game where Mario throws colored capsules into a bottle to eliminate viruses. Players must match colors to clear each stage.
Its catchy music, simple controls, and increasing difficulty make it addictive and fun. The game also features a competitive two-player mode, making it a favorite among fans of classic puzzle games.
32. Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
Zelda II is an action RPG that’s very different from the first game. It features side-scrolling action, experience points, and magic spells.
Players guide Link on a quest to wake Princess Zelda by finding towns, fighting enemies, and solving puzzles. Its challenging gameplay and unique style make it a memorable, if divisive, NES adventure.
33. Tetris
Tetris is a legendary puzzle game where players rotate and drop falling blocks to complete lines. The game gets faster as you clear more lines, challenging your reflexes and planning skills.
Its simple rules and endless replay value made it a worldwide phenomenon, and it remains one of the most famous and beloved puzzle games ever.
34. Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers
Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers is a platformer based on the Disney cartoon. Players control Chip or Dale as they rescue their friend Gadget and defeat the evil Fat Cat.
The game features cooperative play, creative level design, and the ability to pick up and throw objects. Its charming graphics and fun gameplay make it a family favorite.
35. Faxanadu
Faxanadu is an action RPG where you play as a wandering hero returning to save his hometown from monsters. The game features side-scrolling exploration, magic spells, and equipment upgrades.
Its fantasy setting, atmospheric music, and engaging story make it a hidden gem on the NES, beloved by fans of adventure games.
36. Shadowgate
Shadowgate is a first-person adventure game set in a haunted castle. Players solve puzzles, find keys, and avoid deadly traps as they try to defeat an evil warlock.
The game is known for its challenging puzzles, atmospheric writing, and memorable deaths. Its point-and-click gameplay was unique for the NES and inspired many later adventure games.
37. Battletoads
Battletoads is a beat ‘em up known for its wild action and extreme difficulty. Players control toad heroes fighting their way through bizarre and dangerous levels to rescue their friends.
The game features creative stages, two-player co-op, and over-the-top humor. Its challenging gameplay and unique style have made it a cult classic.
38. Maniac Mansion
Maniac Mansion is a point-and-click adventure where you guide a group of teens trying to rescue their friend from a creepy mansion.
Players solve puzzles, interact with quirky characters, and find a house filled with secrets. Its humor, multiple endings, and creative gameplay made it a groundbreaking and influential NES title.
39. Little Nemo: The Dream Master
Little Nemo: The Dream Master is a platformer based on the classic comic strip. Players guide Nemo through dream worlds, using candy to befriend animals that grant special abilities.
The game features colorful graphics, imaginative levels, and a whimsical story. Its creative gameplay and charming style make it a standout NES adventure.
40. Jackal
Jackal is a top-down action game where players drive jeeps behind enemy lines to rescue prisoners of war. The game features cooperative play, powerful upgrades, and fast-paced shooting action.
Its simple controls and exciting gameplay make it a favorite among fans of arcade-style shooters on the NES.
41. Dragon Warrior III
Dragon Warrior III is a classic RPG where you assemble a party and embark on an epic quest to defeat the evil Baramos. The game features turn-based battles, character classes, and a huge world to explore.
Its deep gameplay, memorable story, and sense of adventure make it one of the best RPGs on the NES.
42. Wizards & Warriors
Wizards & Warriors is an action platformer where you play as Kuros, a knight on a quest to rescue a princess from an evil wizard. Players find forests, caves, and castles, collecting power-ups and fighting monsters.
Its colorful graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay made it a popular NES adventure.
43. Adventure Island II
Adventure Island II is a platformer where you play as Master Higgins, traveling across islands to rescue his girlfriend. The game features new dinosaur companions, fun power-ups, and varied levels.
Its bright graphics and catchy music make it a joyful and entertaining experience for fans of classic platformers.
44. Gargoyle’s Quest II
Gargoyle’s Quest II is an action-adventure game where you play as Firebrand, a gargoyle on a quest to save his world. The game combines platforming, RPG elements, and quest.
Its unique hero, atmospheric graphics, and challenging gameplay make it a standout title for players looking for something different on the NES.
45. Baseball Stars
Baseball Stars is a sports game that lets players create and customize their own baseball teams. It features detailed stats, team management, and fun arcade-style gameplay.
Its deep customization options and smooth controls made it one of the most popular and beloved baseball games on the NES.
46. Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest
Castlevania II is an action-adventure game where Simon Belmont must break Dracula’s curse. The game features open-ended quests, day-night cycles, and RPG elements.
Players collect items, solve puzzles, and battle monsters across Transylvania. Its ambitious design and haunting atmosphere make it a unique and memorable entry in the Castlevania series.
47. Metal Gear
Metal Gear is a stealth-action game where you play as Solid Snake, infiltrating enemy bases to destroy a powerful weapon. Players avoid guards, gather equipment, and solve puzzles.
The game introduced stealth gameplay to a wide audience and started the famous Metal Gear series, known for its deep stories and tactical action.
48. Shatterhand
Shatterhand is an action platformer where you play as a cybernetic hero who fights enemies with powerful punches. The game features creative power-ups, robotic companions, and challenging levels.
Its tight controls, unique combat system, and detailed graphics make it a hidden gem for fans of action games on the NES.
49. Double Dragon
Double Dragon is a classic beat ‘em up where brothers Billy and Jimmy fight street gangs to rescue Marian. The game features cooperative play, a variety of moves, and tough enemies.
Its fun action and two-player mode made it a huge hit and helped popularize the beat ‘em up genre.
50. Pro Wrestling
Pro Wrestling is a sports game where players choose from a roster of colorful wrestlers and compete in the ring. The game features simple controls, special moves, and a fun championship mode.
Its memorable characters and easy-to-learn gameplay made it a favorite among NES sports fans.
51. The Guardian Legend
The Guardian Legend is a unique game that combines top-down shooting with an action-adventure quest.
Players control a heroine who can transform into a spaceship, battling enemies and solving puzzles to save a mysterious planet. Its mix of genres, engaging gameplay, and sci-fi story make it a standout and beloved NES title.
52. Goonies II
Goonies II is an adventure platformer where you play as Mikey, searching for his kidnapped friends and a mermaid. The game combines side-scrolling action with first-person quests, puzzles, and secret rooms.
Its challenging gameplay, hidden items, and creative level design make it a unique and memorable NES title inspired by the classic movie.
53. RC Pro-Am II
RC Pro-Am II builds on the original’s fun racing formula, letting players control remote-controlled cars on new tracks with more hazards and power-ups.
The game adds multiplayer support for up to four players, more car upgrades, and tougher computer opponents. Its fast action and competitive gameplay make it a favorite among NES racing fans.
54. Ice Hockey
Ice Hockey is a sports game with simple controls and fast-paced action. Players choose their team’s lineup, balancing speed and strength, and compete in exciting matches.
Its easy-to-learn gameplay and frantic multiplayer mode make it one of the most enjoyable and accessible sports games on the NES.
55. Duck Hunt
Duck Hunt is a light gun shooting game where players use the NES Zapper to shoot ducks as they fly across the screen. The game features a faithful hunting dog, multiple modes, and simple, addictive gameplay.
Its use of the light gun and memorable sound effects made it a staple in many NES households.
56. Marble Madness
Marble Madness is a unique action-puzzle game where players guide a marble through tricky obstacle courses before time runs out.
The game features creative level designs, challenging physics-based gameplay, and a memorable soundtrack. Its isometric perspective and smooth controls made it a standout and challenging experience on the NES.
57. Gauntlet
Gauntlet is a top-down dungeon crawler where up to two players explore mazes, fight monsters, and collect treasures. Players choose from different heroes, each with unique abilities.
The game’s cooperative gameplay, endless waves of enemies, and frantic pace made it a popular and replayable arcade-style adventure on the NES.
58. Kung Fu
Kung Fu is a side-scrolling action game where you play as Thomas, fighting through waves of enemies to rescue your girlfriend, Sylvia. The game features simple controls, fast-paced action, and challenging boss fights.
Its straightforward gameplay and catchy music made it one of the earliest and most influential beat ‘em ups on the NES.
59. Ghosts ‘N Goblins
Ghosts ‘N Goblins is a notoriously difficult action platformer where you play as Sir Arthur, battling monsters to rescue a princess.
The game features tough enemies, tricky jumps, and two full playthroughs to see the true ending. Its challenging gameplay and spooky atmosphere made it a memorable and respected NES classic.
60. Super C
Super C is the sequel to Contra, offering more run-and-gun action with new weapons, enemies, and levels. Players fight through alien-infested environments, dodging bullets and collecting power-ups.
The game’s cooperative two-player mode, intense action, and challenging difficulty made it a favorite for fans of arcade-style shooters.
61. Gradius
Gradius is a side-scrolling shoot ‘em up where players pilot the Vic Viper spaceship through waves of enemies and bosses. The game features a unique power-up system, allowing players to choose upgrades.
Its fast action, creative level design, and memorable music made it one of the most popular and influential shooters on the NES.
62. Rygar
Rygar is an action-adventure game where you play as a warrior fighting monsters in a mythical world. The game combines side-scrolling action with RPG elements like power-ups and character progression.
Its open-ended quests, creative enemies, and challenging gameplay made it a standout title for fans of adventure games.
63. Dragon Warrior
Dragon Warrior is a classic RPG where you play as a hero on a quest to save the kingdom from the evil Dragonlord. Players find towns, fight monsters, and level up to gain new abilities.
Its simple turn-based battles, charming story, and sense of adventure helped shape the RPG genre on the NES.
64. Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos
Ninja Gaiden II is a fast-paced action platformer starring Ryu Hayabusa. The game features new abilities, such as the power to create shadow clones, and even tougher enemies.
Its cinematic cutscenes, challenging gameplay, and tight controls make it a worthy sequel and a favorite among fans of action games.
65. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is an action platformer where you control all four turtles, each with unique weapons and abilities. Players rescue their friends and battle classic villains across varied levels.
Its challenging gameplay, memorable music, and connection to the popular cartoon made it a hit with fans.
66. Blades of Steel
Blades of Steel is an ice hockey game known for its fast action and smooth controls. Players compete in intense matches, with the ability to fight opponents and score dramatic goals.
Its multiplayer mode, arcade-style gameplay, and realistic presentation made it one of the best sports games on the NES.
67. Willow
Willow is an action RPG based on the fantasy movie. Players guide Willow through forests, caves, and castles, fighting enemies and learning magic.
The game features quests, character upgrades, and a story that closely follows the film. Its detailed graphics and engaging gameplay make it a hidden gem for adventure fans.
68. Solomon’s Key
Solomon’s Key is a challenging puzzle-platformer where you play as Dana, a wizard who creates and destroys blocks to solve puzzles and escape rooms.
The game features tricky levels, hidden secrets, and a time limit. Its clever design and increasing difficulty make it a favorite for players who enjoy brain-teasing challenges.
69. Rad Racer
Rad Racer is a fast-paced racing game where players speed through city streets and scenic highways. The game features 3D effects, multiple cars, and a catchy soundtrack.
Its arcade-style gameplay, smooth controls, and sense of speed made it a popular racing title and a showcase for the NES’s capabilities.
70. Balloon Fight
Balloon Fight is an arcade-style action game where players control a character with balloons attached, floating through the air and popping opponents’ balloons.
The game features simple controls, fun multiplayer, and increasingly difficult stages. Its addictive gameplay and charming graphics made it a popular and memorable NES classic.
71. G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero is an action platformer where players choose from different G.I. Joe characters, each with unique weapons and abilities, to battle Cobra forces.
The game features varied missions, challenging bosses, and cooperative play. Its connection to the popular toy line and cartoon made it a hit with fans.
72. Metal Storm
Metal Storm is a unique action platformer where you control a powerful mech with the ability to reverse gravity. Players navigate challenging levels, fighting enemies and avoiding hazards by walking on ceilings and floors.
Its innovative gameplay mechanics, sharp graphics, and tough bosses make it a standout and underrated NES game.
73. R.B.I. Baseball
R.B.I. Baseball is a classic sports game that brought real Major League Baseball players and teams to the NES. Its simple controls and fast-paced gameplay made it easy for anyone to pick up and play.
The game’s two-player mode and fun arcade style helped it become one of the most beloved baseball games on the system.
74. Snake Rattle ‘N’ Roll
Snake Rattle ‘N’ Roll is a fun and challenging NES action platformer where you control a colorful snake. You eat bouncing pellets to grow longer and heavier, then race to reach the exit scale before time runs out.
The game features creative isometric levels, catchy music, and quirky humor, making it a unique and memorable experience on the NES
75. Klax
Klax is a tile-matching puzzle game where colored tiles roll toward you on a conveyor belt. You must catch and stack them to form rows, columns, or diagonals of the same color.
With increasing speed and challenging patterns, Klax tests your reflexes and planning. Its catchy sound effects and addictive gameplay made it a memorable NES puzzle experience.
76. Fester’s Quest
Fester’s Quest is an action-adventure game starring Uncle Fester from The Addams Family. When aliens invade, Fester battles through city streets, sewers, and buildings using a ray gun and quirky gadgets.
The game features tough enemies, tricky mazes, and a spooky atmosphere. Its challenging gameplay and unique theme make it a cult favorite among NES fans.
77. Dragon Warrior II
Dragon Warrior II is a role-playing game that expands on the original with a larger world, more characters, and new monsters.
Players form a party, find towns and dungeons, and battle enemies in turn-based combat. Its improved story and greater sense of adventure make it a favorite among fans of classic NES RPGs.
78. Mega Man 5
Mega Man 5 continues the adventures of the blue robot hero as he battles eight new Robot Masters and faces his rival, Proto Man. The game features new weapons, creative level design, and tight controls.
Its challenging gameplay and catchy music make it a strong entry in the beloved Mega Man series.
79. Bucky O’Hare
Bucky O’Hare is a colorful action platformer based on the comic and cartoon series. Players control Bucky and his crew, each with unique abilities, as they battle to save the universe from evil toads.
The game’s vibrant graphics, varied gameplay, and challenging levels make it a standout NES adventure for fans of action games.
80. The Adventures of Lolo
The Adventures of Lolo is a puzzle game where you guide Lolo through rooms filled with obstacles and enemies to rescue Princess Lala. Each room is a brainteaser, requiring you to move blocks, avoid dangers, and collect hearts.
Its charming graphics, clever puzzles, and relaxing music make it a favorite for players who enjoy thoughtful challenges.
81. Kobra Triangle
Kobra Triangle is an action-racing game where you control a speedboat through challenging river courses. Each level offers new objectives, like racing, rescuing swimmers, or battling sea monsters.
The game’s responsive controls, creative level design, and fast-paced action make it a standout NES title for fans of racing and arcade-style games.
82. Moero! Stinger
Moero! Stinger, known as Stinger in North America, is a colorful shoot-’em-up where you pilot a flying ship and battle whimsical enemies.
The game supports up to three players and features both side-scrolling and vertical levels. Its cute graphics, catchy music, and cooperative gameplay make it a fun and lighthearted NES shooter.
83. Qix
Qix is a puzzle-action game where you draw lines to claim sections of the screen while avoiding enemies. The goal is to capture a set percentage of the playfield without being caught.
Its simple controls, tense gameplay, and strategic depth make Qix a unique and addictive experience for puzzle fans on the NES.
84. Guerrilla War
Guerrilla War is a top-down shooter where players control revolutionaries fighting to overthrow an evil dictator. The game features cooperative play, powerful weapons, and non-stop action across varied environments.
Its fast-paced gameplay and explosive action made it a favorite for fans of arcade-style shooters on the NES.
85. Mega Man 6
Mega Man 6 is the final NES entry in the series, introducing new Rush adapters that let Mega Man fly and punch through obstacles. Players face eight new Robot Masters and find creative levels.
The game’s polished graphics, tight controls, and challenging bosses make it a fitting end to the classic NES Mega Man saga.
86. Journey to Silius
Journey to Silius is a futuristic action platformer where you play as Jay, fighting robots to avenge his father. The game features challenging levels, powerful weapons, and impressive graphics for the NES.
Its tough enemies and catchy music make it a cult favorite among fans of action games.
87. Destiny of an Emperor
Destiny of an Emperor is a strategy RPG set in ancient China, inspired by the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Players recruit generals, manage armies, and engage in turn-based battles.
The game’s deep strategy, historical setting, and unique mechanics make it a standout title for fans of tactical RPGs on the NES.
88. Mickey Mousecapade
Mickey Mousecapade is a platformer where you guide Mickey and Minnie Mouse through colorful levels inspired by Disney worlds.
Players face classic villains, collect items, and solve simple puzzles to rescue Alice from Wonderland.
The game’s charming graphics, catchy music, and family-friendly gameplay make it a delightful NES adventure for Disney fans of all ages.
89. Little Samson
Little Samson is a platformer where you control four different characters, each with unique abilities, as they battle to save the kingdom.
The game features beautiful graphics, creative level design, and smooth controls. Its variety of gameplay and polished presentation make it a hidden gem and one of the best-looking NES games.
90. Mighty Final Fight
Mighty Final Fight is a beat ‘em up that offers a chibi, cartoon-style take on the classic arcade game. Players choose from three heroes and fight through gangs to rescue a kidnapped girl.
The game features fun combat, special moves, and RPG-style leveling up, making it a charming and enjoyable NES brawler.
91. 1943: The Battle of Midway
1943: The Battle of Midway is a top-down shooter set during World War II. Players pilot a fighter plane through waves of enemy aircraft and ships, collecting power-ups and defeating bosses.
Its cooperative mode, challenging gameplay, and historical setting made it a standout shooter on the NES.
92. Darkwing Duck
Darkwing Duck is an action platformer based on the Disney cartoon. Players guide the superhero through colorful stages, using gadgets and clever moves to defeat villains.
The game’s tight controls, polished graphics, and fun level design make it a favorite for fans of both the show and classic platformers.
93. Gaid III: Ancient Ship Doom
Gaid III: Ancient Ship Doom is an action platformer where players control a ninja fighting through futuristic stages filled with enemies and traps.
The game features fast-paced action, challenging boss battles, and a dramatic story. Its intense gameplay and cinematic style make it a memorable NES action title.
94. Power Blade
Power Blade is an action platformer where you play as Nova, a hero armed with a powerful boomerang. Players find non-linear stages, defeat robots, and collect items to save the world.
The game features smooth controls, creative level design, and a cool futuristic setting, making it a standout NES action game.
95. Micro Mages
Micro Mages is a modern NES platformer developed decades after the system’s prime. Up to four players can work together to climb towers, avoid hazards, and defeat enemies.
The game’s tight controls, charming pixel art, and cooperative gameplay make it a fresh and impressive addition to the NES library.
96. Clash at Demonhead
Clash at Demonhead is an action-adventure game where you play as Billy “Big Bang” Blitz, finding a vast world filled with secrets, upgrades, and strange characters.
The game features non-linear gameplay, creative power-ups, and a quirky story. Its open-ended design and unique style make it a cult classic among NES fans.
97. Section Z
Section Z is a side-scrolling shooter where you play as a space soldier infiltrating an alien fortress. Players navigate branching paths, blast enemies, and collect power-ups.
The game features large, maze-like levels, tough bosses, and non-linear progression, offering plenty of challenge and replay value for fans of NES shooters.
98. IronSword: Wizards & Warriors II
IronSword: Wizards & Warriors II is an action platformer where you play as Kuros, a knight on a quest to defeat elemental bosses and save the world.
The game features challenging levels, magical items, and detailed graphics. Its fantasy setting and tough gameplay make it a memorable sequel for fans of adventure games.
99. Gremlins 2: The New Batch
Gremlins 2: The New Batch is an action platformer based on the movie. Players guide Gizmo through levels filled with enemies, traps, and clever puzzles.
The game features creative weapons, colorful graphics, and a fun soundtrack. Its mix of action and strategy makes it a standout licensed game on the NES.
100. Legacy of the Wizard
Legacy of the Wizard is a sprawling action-adventure game where you control a family of heroes, each with unique abilities, as they find a massive underground labyrinth.
Players solve puzzles, defeat monsters, and collect magical items. Its non-linear gameplay, challenging exploration, and fantasy setting make it a deep and rewarding NES classic.
Conclusion
The NES was a pivotal console that laid the foundation for many of the games we enjoy today.
Its vast library of games introduced innovative gameplay mechanics, captivating storylines, and unforgettable characters that continue to influence modern gaming.
From Super Mario Bros. to Metroid, the titles on this console not only shaped my childhood but also set the standard for future gaming experiences.
If you haven’t already, I encourage you to revisit these NES classics and experience the magic they bring. So, grab your controller and find the rich world of NES – you won’t regret reexperiencing these legendary titles.
