Top 10 NES Games That Were Way Ahead Of Their Time

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), an 8-bit console that captured the hearts of gamers in the 1980s and early 1990s, is home to a treasure trove of classic games. While many titles are fondly remembered for their simple yet addictive gameplay, some NES games pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible on the hardware, showcasing innovative mechanics, compelling storytelling, and impressive technical feats. These games were truly ahead of their time, setting the stage for future generations of video games. Let's dive into the top 10 NES games that were revolutionary for their era, exploring what made them so special and why they continue to be celebrated today.

1. Metroid: A Sci-Fi Epic on the NES

Metroid, released in 1986, is a groundbreaking action-adventure game that took players to the hostile planet Zebes, where they controlled the bounty hunter Samus Aran. What set Metroid apart was its non-linear exploration and emphasis on atmosphere. Unlike many other NES games that featured a linear progression, Metroid encouraged players to explore the vast, interconnected world of Zebes, discovering new areas and upgrades as they went. This open-world design was revolutionary for its time, providing a sense of freedom and discovery that was rarely seen in video games. The game's eerie and atmospheric soundtrack, combined with its dark and foreboding environments, created a sense of isolation and tension that heightened the player's immersion. The gameplay mechanics of Metroid, such as the ability to acquire new abilities and weapons, added depth and complexity to the experience. Samus Aran's character design was also notable, particularly the iconic reveal at the end of the game that Samus was a woman, a plot twist that subverted gender stereotypes in video games. The impact of Metroid on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. It established the "Metroidvania" genre, which combines elements of Metroid and Castlevania, and inspired countless games with its emphasis on exploration, atmosphere, and non-linear gameplay. Games like Hollow Knight, Ori and the Blind Forest, and Axiom Verge all owe a debt to Metroid's innovative design. Metroid's influence extends beyond the Metroidvania genre, as its themes and atmosphere have influenced other science fiction games and media. Metroid's legacy as a groundbreaking and influential game is secure, and it remains a must-play title for anyone interested in the history of video games. Its innovative design, compelling atmosphere, and memorable characters have made it a timeless classic. So, if you're looking for a game that truly pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the NES, Metroid is definitely one to check out. You'll be amazed by its depth and complexity, especially considering the limitations of the hardware.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Redefining Adventure Games

The Legend of Zelda, released in 1986, is an undisputed masterpiece that redefined the adventure game genre. This epic fantasy adventure took players to the magical kingdom of Hyrule, where they controlled the hero Link on a quest to rescue Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Ganon. What made The Legend of Zelda so special was its vast, open world, its challenging dungeons, and its emphasis on exploration and discovery. Unlike many other NES games that had a linear structure, The Legend of Zelda allowed players to explore Hyrule freely, discovering secrets, solving puzzles, and battling enemies at their own pace. This sense of freedom was revolutionary for its time, providing a level of immersion and engagement that was rarely seen in video games. The dungeons in The Legend of Zelda were another highlight, each one presenting a unique set of challenges and puzzles to overcome. Players had to use their wits and skills to navigate these labyrinths, defeating enemies and bosses along the way. The game's inventory system, which allowed players to collect and use various items, added another layer of depth to the gameplay. The Legend of Zelda's storytelling was also groundbreaking. While the plot was simple – rescue the princess and defeat the villain – the game's world, characters, and atmosphere created a sense of epic adventure. The iconic music, composed by Koji Kondo, is still instantly recognizable and evokes the spirit of Hyrule. The impact of The Legend of Zelda on the video game industry is immeasurable. It established many of the conventions of the action-adventure genre, such as the overworld map, the dungeon structure, and the item-based progression system. The Legend of Zelda's influence can be seen in countless games, from the early Final Fantasy titles to modern open-world adventures like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. The Legend of Zelda's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and innovation. It has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest video games of all time. Its blend of exploration, combat, puzzle-solving, and storytelling created a magical experience that captivated gamers and set the standard for adventure games to come. So, if you're a fan of adventure games, or just curious about the history of video games, The Legend of Zelda is an essential title to play. You'll quickly see why it's considered a masterpiece.

3. Mega Man 2: Polished Platforming Perfection

Mega Man 2, released in 1988, is widely considered one of the best action platformers on the NES and a high point for the entire Mega Man series. While the original Mega Man laid the foundation for the franchise, Mega Man 2 refined the formula to near perfection. Its challenging gameplay, iconic boss battles, and memorable music made it an instant classic. What made Mega Man 2 so special was its non-linear level design and its unique weapon system. Players could choose to tackle the game's eight Robot Master stages in any order, and defeating a Robot Master would grant Mega Man their special weapon. This allowed for a strategic approach to the game, as players could exploit enemy weaknesses by using the appropriate weapon. The level design in Mega Man 2 was also exceptional, featuring a variety of challenging platforming sections, hidden items, and memorable set pieces. Each Robot Master stage had its own unique theme and challenges, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging. The boss battles in Mega Man 2 are legendary. Each Robot Master had their own distinct personality and attack patterns, and defeating them required skill, timing, and strategy. The reward for defeating a boss was not only their weapon but also the satisfaction of overcoming a difficult challenge. The music in Mega Man 2, composed by Takashi Tateishi, is some of the most iconic and beloved in video game history. The catchy melodies and driving rhythms perfectly complement the game's action-packed gameplay. Tracks like Dr. Wily Stage 1 and the Metal Man stage theme are instantly recognizable and evoke a sense of nostalgia for the NES era. Mega Man 2's influence on the platforming genre is significant. Its non-linear level design and weapon system have been emulated in countless games, and its challenging gameplay has inspired many indie developers to create their own retro-style platformers. Games like Shovel Knight and Cuphead owe a debt to Mega Man 2's innovative design. Mega Man 2's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and replayability. It's a game that can be enjoyed by both casual and hardcore gamers, and its challenging gameplay will keep you coming back for more. If you're looking for a classic action platformer that's both challenging and rewarding, Mega Man 2 is a must-play. You'll be hooked by its gameplay, its music, and its iconic characters.

4. Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse: Branching Paths and Multiple Characters

Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse, released in 1989, is a remarkable action-platformer that pushed the Castlevania series in new and exciting directions. While the original Castlevania established the series' core gameplay, and Castlevania II: Simon's Quest experimented with open-world elements, Castlevania III returned to the linear gameplay of the original while adding new features that set it apart. What made Castlevania III so groundbreaking was its branching paths and multiple playable characters. For the first time in the series, players could choose different paths through the game, leading to different levels and bosses. This added a significant amount of replayability to the game, as players could experience different parts of the story and gameplay on each playthrough. Castlevania III also introduced multiple playable characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Trevor Belmont, the main character, was a whip-wielding vampire hunter, similar to previous Castlevania protagonists. However, he could also team up with three other characters: Sypha Belnades, a powerful mage; Grant DaNasty, a nimble pirate who could climb walls; and Alucard, Dracula's son, who could transform into a bat. Each character offered a different way to play the game, and mastering their abilities was essential for success. The level design in Castlevania III was challenging and varied, featuring a mix of platforming sections, enemy encounters, and boss battles. The game's difficulty was notorious, requiring players to master the game's controls and enemy patterns in order to survive. However, the challenge was fair, and the satisfaction of overcoming a difficult section was immense. The music in Castlevania III, composed by a team led by Hitoshi Sakimoto, is considered some of the best in the series. The gothic melodies and driving rhythms perfectly complement the game's dark and atmospheric setting. Tracks like Beginning and Nightmare are instantly recognizable and evoke a sense of dread and excitement. Castlevania III's influence on the series and the action-platformer genre is significant. Its branching paths and multiple playable characters were groundbreaking features that added depth and replayability to the gameplay. The game's challenging difficulty and gothic atmosphere have also become hallmarks of the Castlevania series. If you're a fan of action-platformers, or just curious about the history of the Castlevania series, Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse is a must-play. Its challenging gameplay, multiple characters, and branching paths make it a unique and rewarding experience.

5. Ninja Gaiden: Cinematic Storytelling and Challenging Action

Ninja Gaiden, released in 1988, is a classic action platformer known for its challenging gameplay and its innovative use of cinematic cutscenes. While many NES games featured simple stories and minimal dialogue, Ninja Gaiden told a compelling tale of revenge and redemption through stylish cutscenes that advanced the plot between levels. This cinematic storytelling was groundbreaking for its time, and it helped to elevate Ninja Gaiden above other action games on the NES. What made Ninja Gaiden so special was its fast-paced, challenging gameplay and its intricate level design. Players controlled Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja warrior on a quest to avenge his father's death and stop an evil plot to conquer the world. Ryu was incredibly agile, able to run, jump, climb walls, and attack enemies with his ninja sword and a variety of other weapons. The game's controls were tight and responsive, allowing players to execute complex maneuvers with precision. The level design in Ninja Gaiden was also exceptional, featuring a mix of platforming sections, enemy encounters, and traps. The game's difficulty was notorious, requiring players to master the game's controls and enemy patterns in order to survive. However, the challenge was fair, and the satisfaction of overcoming a difficult section was immense. The cutscenes in Ninja Gaiden were another highlight. These animated sequences featured detailed character sprites, dramatic music, and compelling dialogue, and they helped to immerse players in the game's story. The cutscenes were also used to introduce new characters, reveal plot twists, and build tension. Ninja Gaiden's influence on the action platformer genre is significant. Its cinematic storytelling and challenging gameplay helped to set a new standard for the genre, and its influence can be seen in countless games that followed. Games like Shinobi, Strider, and the more recent Katana ZERO all owe a debt to Ninja Gaiden's innovative design. If you're a fan of action platformers, or just curious about the history of video games, Ninja Gaiden is a must-play. Its challenging gameplay, cinematic storytelling, and iconic characters make it a timeless classic.

6. Contra: Run-and-Gun Action at Its Finest

Contra, released in 1988, is a legendary run-and-gun shooter known for its intense action, challenging gameplay, and iconic characters. Players take on the roles of Bill Rizer and Lance Bean, two elite commandos tasked with stopping an alien invasion. The game is famous for its fast-paced action, its wide variety of weapons, and its challenging level design. What made Contra so special was its cooperative gameplay and its sheer intensity. Players could team up and play through the game together, blasting through hordes of enemies and bosses. The cooperative gameplay added a new dimension to the experience, allowing players to strategize and coordinate their attacks. Contra's gameplay was also incredibly intense, with enemies coming at you from all directions. The game required quick reflexes, precise aiming, and a good understanding of the level layouts in order to survive. The game's wide variety of weapons, including the iconic Spread Gun, added to the fun and allowed players to tailor their playstyle to their preferences. The level design in Contra was also exceptional, featuring a mix of side-scrolling and over-the-shoulder perspectives. The game's levels were filled with enemies, traps, and bosses, keeping the action constant and the challenge high. The boss battles in Contra were particularly memorable, requiring players to use all of their skills and weapons to defeat them. Contra's influence on the run-and-gun genre is significant. Its fast-paced action, cooperative gameplay, and challenging level design have been emulated in countless games, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. Games like Metal Slug, Gunstar Heroes, and Cuphead all owe a debt to Contra's innovative design. If you're a fan of run-and-gun shooters, or just looking for a challenging and action-packed game, Contra is a must-play. Its cooperative gameplay, intense action, and iconic characters make it a timeless classic.

7. Kirby's Adventure: A Colorful and Accessible Platformer

Kirby's Adventure, released in 1993, is a charming and innovative platformer that showcased the NES's graphical capabilities and introduced Kirby's signature copy ability. While many NES platformers were known for their challenging difficulty, Kirby's Adventure offered a more accessible experience, making it a great entry point for new gamers. What made Kirby's Adventure so special was its colorful graphics and its unique gameplay mechanics. The game's bright and cheerful visuals were a departure from the darker and more serious tones of many other NES games. Kirby's Adventure was one of the most visually impressive games on the NES, showcasing the console's graphical capabilities to their fullest extent. Kirby's signature copy ability was another standout feature. Kirby could inhale enemies and copy their abilities, gaining access to a wide variety of powers. This added a layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players could choose the best ability for each situation. The game's level design was also excellent, featuring a mix of platforming sections, puzzles, and mini-games. The levels were varied and colorful, and they were filled with secrets and hidden items to discover. Kirby's Adventure's influence on the platformer genre is significant. Its accessible gameplay and unique copy ability have been emulated in countless games, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. The Kirby series has gone on to become one of Nintendo's most popular franchises, and Kirby's Adventure is often cited as the game that established the character's identity and gameplay style. If you're looking for a charming and accessible platformer with innovative gameplay, Kirby's Adventure is a must-play. Its colorful graphics, unique copy ability, and excellent level design make it a timeless classic.

8. Super Mario Bros. 3: A Masterclass in Level Design

Super Mario Bros. 3, released in 1988 in Japan and 1990 in North America, is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time and a pinnacle of 2D platforming. It built upon the foundation of its predecessors, Super Mario Bros. and Super Mario Bros. 2, and introduced a wealth of new features, power-ups, and level design ideas that redefined the genre. What made Super Mario Bros. 3 so special was its sheer creativity and its level of polish. The game featured a vast overworld map with eight distinct worlds, each with its own unique theme and challenges. The levels themselves were incredibly varied and imaginative, featuring a mix of traditional platforming sections, auto-scrolling stages, underwater levels, and more. Super Mario Bros. 3 also introduced a host of new power-ups, including the Super Leaf, which gave Mario the ability to fly; the Tanooki Suit, which allowed Mario to turn into a statue; and the Frog Suit, which made Mario swim faster. These power-ups added a new layer of strategy to the gameplay, allowing players to tackle levels in different ways. The game's level design was also exceptional, featuring a mix of challenging obstacles, hidden secrets, and memorable set pieces. Super Mario Bros. 3's influence on the platformer genre is immeasurable. Its innovative level design, creative power-ups, and vast overworld map have been emulated in countless games, and it remains a benchmark for 2D platformers to this day. The Super Mario series has gone on to become one of the most popular and influential video game franchises of all time, and Super Mario Bros. 3 is often cited as one of its finest entries. If you're a fan of platformers, or just curious about the history of video games, Super Mario Bros. 3 is an essential title to play. Its innovative gameplay, creative level design, and sheer fun make it a timeless classic.

9. Battletoads: Infamous Difficulty and Beat 'Em Up Fun

Battletoads, released in 1991, is a notorious beat 'em up game known for its extreme difficulty and its wacky, over-the-top humor. Players control one of three anthropomorphic toads – Rash, Zitz, and Pimple – on a mission to rescue their friends and defeat the Dark Queen. The game is famous for its challenging gameplay, its varied level design, and its unique blend of beat 'em up and platforming elements. What made Battletoads so special was its sheer difficulty and its over-the-top action. The game was notoriously hard, featuring a mix of challenging enemies, tricky platforming sections, and a variety of obstacles that required precise timing and skill to overcome. Battletoads is often cited as one of the most difficult games ever made, and its challenging gameplay has become a legendary part of its legacy. Despite its difficulty, Battletoads was also incredibly fun and addictive. The game's beat 'em up gameplay was satisfying and engaging, and its wacky humor and over-the-top action kept players entertained. The Battletoads themselves were memorable characters, each with their own unique moves and personalities. The game's level design was also varied and creative, featuring a mix of side-scrolling beat 'em up sections, platforming challenges, and even racing levels. Battletoads' influence on the beat 'em up genre is significant. Its challenging gameplay and wacky humor have been emulated in countless games, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. The Battletoads themselves have become iconic characters, and the game's difficulty has become a badge of honor for those who have managed to complete it. If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding beat 'em up game, Battletoads is a must-play. Its extreme difficulty, wacky humor, and satisfying gameplay make it a timeless classic.

10. Tetris: The Timeless Puzzle Game

Tetris, originally released in 1984 but popularized on the NES in 1989, is a classic puzzle game that has captivated players for decades. Its simple yet addictive gameplay and its endless replayability have made it one of the most popular video games of all time. What made Tetris so special was its elegant design and its addictive gameplay loop. The game is simple to learn but difficult to master, and its fast-paced action and challenging puzzles keep players coming back for more. Tetris's gameplay is based on arranging falling tetrominoes – geometric shapes composed of four squares each – into complete lines. As the game progresses, the tetrominoes fall faster, and players must use their quick reflexes and spatial reasoning skills to keep up. The game ends when the tetrominoes stack up to the top of the screen. Tetris's gameplay is incredibly addictive, and it's easy to lose hours playing the game. The game's simple rules and challenging puzzles create a compelling loop that keeps players engaged, and its endless replayability ensures that the game never gets old. Tetris's influence on the puzzle game genre is immeasurable. Its simple yet elegant design has been emulated in countless games, and it remains a benchmark for puzzle games to this day. Tetris has been released on virtually every gaming platform, and it continues to be a popular choice for players of all ages. If you're a fan of puzzle games, or just looking for a fun and addictive game to play, Tetris is a must-try. Its simple rules, challenging gameplay, and endless replayability make it a timeless classic.

These ten NES games represent just a small fraction of the console's vast library, but they highlight the innovation and creativity that defined the era. These games were more than just entertainment; they were groundbreaking experiences that pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the hardware and set the stage for the future of video games. So, if you're looking to explore the rich history of video games, or simply want to experience some classic titles, these NES games are a great place to start. You'll be amazed at how ahead of their time they were, and how much fun they still are to play today.