Choosing which retro games to play can be overwhelming due to the vast number of titles available. This article explores practical methods to discover great retro games, including using Google, engaging with communities, browsing curated lists, watching YouTube channels, and personal strategies like game list scrolling and the Dusty Game Society club. It also offers creative approaches to game selection and encourages players to simply start playing to truly discover gems.
If you have a retro gaming device loaded with countless games, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer number of options and unsure about which games to play. The world of retro gaming is massive, with tens of thousands of titles spanning various platforms and genres. This guide will help you navigate this vast landscape and find games that you will truly enjoy.
When you power on your retro device and scroll through the endless list of games, it can be daunting. Many titles have obscure or generic names, and it’s easy to overlook hidden gems. Sometimes, picking a game at random works, but other times you might end up with something less enjoyable, like an educational math game when you wanted an adventure.
Alternatively, some gamers spend more time researching than playing — opening multiple tabs, watching videos, reading forums, and making lists, only to feel overwhelmed and stuck.
Instead of getting lost in endless searching, here are some effective methods to discover great retro games:
Google is a powerful tool for finding game recommendations. Try searching for phrases like "fun Super Nintendo games" or "best GBA RPGs." You’ll find articles, forum posts, Reddit discussions, and curated lists.
Don’t underestimate the value of basic searches; if many people recommend the same games, they’re likely worth trying. You can also search by genre or combine platform and genre for more specific results.
Connecting with other retro gamers can provide personalized recommendations and foster friendships. You can visit local retro game shops or join online communities such as message boards, Facebook groups, and Discord servers.
For example, Techme hosts the Techweb Discord server, which includes a dedicated room for retro game discussions and a special area for patrons. These communities are great places to share discoveries and get advice.
Many websites compile lists of top retro games by platform or genre. One highly recommended resource is MobyGames, which offers an extensive database of games with screenshots, descriptions, release information, and aggregated critic and user scores.
Spending time browsing such sites can lead you to games you might never have heard of otherwise.
YouTube hosts numerous channels that focus on retro gaming, showcasing the best games, hidden gems, and unique titles. Some popular channels include Cultured Vultures, That Video Game Show, My Boy Pixel Bro Lee, Retro Bird, Retro Breakak, Gaming the Systems, Metal Jesus, and Angry Video Game Nerd.
Watching these videos can inspire you and help you discover games that match your interests. Plus, the YouTube algorithm will start recommending similar content.
As a retro game enthusiast and content creator, Techme shares two main personal methods for finding games:
Techme maintains a comprehensive ROM set for all retro systems up to the Nintendo 64, with one game per ROM prioritized for English North American versions. This core set is consistent across all his devices.
He scrolls through the game list on a chosen system, looking at screenshots, ratings, and titles that pique his curiosity. Games that seem interesting are favorited for later play.
He then plays each favorited game for at least five minutes to decide if it’s worth keeping on the list. This process usually takes one to two weeks per system and results in a curated collection of the best and most enjoyable games.
The Dusty Game Society (DGS) is a retro gaming club hosted by Techme for his patrons. Each month, the group selects a game from Techme’s curated list to play together, discuss, and help each other with.
This club functions like a book club but for retro games, encouraging members to stick with games and discover new favorites. Playing with a community has helped Techme fall in love with many games he might have otherwise overlooked.
Beyond traditional methods, here are some unique ways to discover retro games:
Genres can be limiting and don’t always convey the true feel of a game. Instead, search for games based on the emotions or vibes you want to experience, such as cozy, exciting, weird, or melancholy.
For example, you might move from a game like Animal Crossing to an obscure fishing game that evokes a similar emotional response, even if the gameplay is very different.
Create arbitrary rules to narrow down your choices and make the selection process fun. Examples include:
This method helps you discover unusual games and gives you a reason to play them.
Use a random game selector but limit the pool first. For example, randomize only within Super Nintendo RPGs or a curated list of favorites. This way, you get surprises without the frustration of playing games outside your interest.
Pick three games at a time and rotate between them. This approach provides variety for those with shorter attention spans while maintaining enough focus to complete games.
One game will usually stand out as a favorite, while the others may fade away. This method ensures you give each game a fair chance.
Choice fatigue is real, but remember that you likely already have great games waiting in your backlog. Classic titles like Metroid, beloved RPGs, or cozy simulation games are often just a start away.
The essence of retro gaming is the joy of discovery and the experiences games offer. Don’t get stuck endlessly researching or optimizing your choices. Instead, pick a game and start playing it. Give it a fair chance, and if it doesn’t resonate, move on.
You discover great games by playing them, immersing yourself in their worlds, and experiencing those unexpected moments that make gaming special.
So, take this as permission from your retro gaming friend to enjoy your games. The rest of the backlog will still be there when you’re ready, and so will the community of fellow gamers eager to share in your discoveries.
Happy gaming!
