Retro games are video games that were developed and released in the past, typically during the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s. These games are often cherished by gamers (including myself) for their nostalgia, simplicity, and classic gameplay. Maybe that is why we spotted so many new games in an old-school jacket lately.
Let’s take a look at some of these new and upcoming ‘modern retro games‘ and take a closer look at what makes them so retro and therefore potentially cherishable.
First things first – a retro(spective)
What are the typical characteristics of a retro game especially compared to a modern video game? In other words, what does make games ‘retro’? A short list:
- Graphics: Many retro games feature pixelated graphics, often in 8-bit or 16-bit style. These graphics were limited by the technology of the time but still have a unique and charming aesthetic.
- Simple Gameplay: Retro games tend to have straightforward gameplay. Mind you straightforward doesn’t mean not challenging. They typically just focus on core mechanics without the complexity found in modern games.
- Limited Sound: The sound in retro games is often simple and composed of chip tunes or basic sound effects due to the limitations of the hardware they were designed for.
- Arcade Influence: Many retro games draw inspiration from classic arcade games, with a focus on high scores, quick gameplay sessions, and challenging levels.
- 2D Platformers: Platform games, where the player controls a character moving through a 2D environment, were a typical genre in the retro era.
- Top-Down and Isometric Views: Retro games often used top-down or isometric perspectives for genres like action-adventure and role-playing games.
- Limited Save Systems: In many retro games, there were limited or no save options. Players often had to rely on passwords or complete levels in a single sitting.
- Physical Media: Retro games were originally distributed on physical cartridges, floppy disks, or CDs, depending on the era. Today, retro gaming enthusiasts collect and play these games using vintage consoles or emulation software.
Some modern retro games – a selection!
Considering the above characteristics what are some ‘new’ and upcoming modern retro games that we’ve spotted?
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn
Do you love Ninjas? Do you love Ninjas created with incredibly detailed pixel art? Look no further Shadow of The Ninja: REBORN is the game for you! This game is a 16-bit style remake of a 2D Ninja action game that was first published 33 years ago (yes in the 90’s). And this 1-2 player side-scrolling game is, just like the original game, filled with some awesome action. In the game the world was robbed of its light by demon emperor Garuda and his hordes of monsters. And although a Ninja thrives in the dark, these two shadows (called Hayate and Kaede) are on a quest to make the world a brighter place.
What makes this modern game retro? Well, it’s a 16-bit remake of a 2D action-packed side scroller with relatively ‘simple’ gameplay. Pretty retro if you ask me. And ow yeah it will contain some nice old-school Guitar riffs of Mr. Iku Mizutani. Don’t know who that is? Please look him up!
Retro score: 4,5 out of 5 retro stars
Release date: Spring 2024
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC
Sonic Superstars
What is blue, fast, and prickly? Or should we say who? It’s Sonic obviously! Did you know that the first Sonic game was released in 1991 for the Sega Megadrive (Sega Genesis)? Yes? But did you also know that the newest Sonic game, called Sonic Superstars, is going to be released pretty soon? No? Then get ready to get excited about adventuring with Sonic and friends through the mystical Northstar islands.
What makes this modern game retro? Well, it’s definitely not an 8 or 16-bit game, but it is a 2D action platformer with original characters and some nostalgic sounds. So it checks a few of the important retro checkboxes. Plus it has a battle mode with split-screen!
Retro score: 3,5 out of 5 retro stars
Release date: October 17, 2023
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC
Parasol Stars: The story of Bubble Bobble III
Remember shooting bubbles with a little dragon or two? I do! And I loved it! Parasol Stars really sparked my interest because of some fond childhood memories. I used to play a lot of games from the Bubble Bobble franchise on my Game Boy (with no color). Did this reveal that I am old? Anyways, back to Parasol stars. In this new and upcoming platformer by TAITO you play as the human variant of the two brothers Bubby and Bobby and instead of bubbles, you are now armed with magical umbrellas ready to save some neighboring planets from evil. Cuteness overload!
What makes this modern game retro? It’s (probably very addictive) arcade-style, but simple, gameplay. Very cute pixel art, chip tunes, and a nostalgic homage to Chack’n Pop, one of the early platform games. Do I need to say more?
Retro score: 5 out of 5 retro stars
Release date: end of 2023
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox
Elements Destiny
A little bit of retro JRPG goes a long way! Some would say Final Fantasy made the (J)RPG genre popular in the West. But I think a lot of people forget that Pokémon can also be considered a JRPG. Just saying… At Gamescom, a very interesting ‘JRPG’ caught my eye. The game is called Elements Destiny and it is described as “A 2D Fantasy RPG with pixelated retro visuals“. Why did I use Apostrophes when I described Elements Destiny as a JRPG? Well because the game is made by a German Indie studio called ShrooMoon (publisher Deck13) and has an all-German voice cast. But the game was clearly inspired by some old-school Japanese RPGs. In the game, you follow Erika who embarks on a journey with some new companions to fight an approaching threat. These companions have been chosen to walk this path with her and awaken their elemental powers.
What makes this modern game retro? The game describes itself as an RPG with pixelated retro visuals. And no lies were told here. The Top-Down and Isometric Views scream retro and I love it.
Retro score: 4,5 out of 5 retro stars
Release date: TBA
Platform(s): PC (Steam)
IREM collection – Volume 1 (to 5)
When you think about retro arcade games, games like Space Invaders (1978) and Galaga (1981) are probably the first games you think of. And for good reasons. The shoot ‘em-up genre was very popular back in the day. And now it is possible to obtain your own personal collection of Shoot ‘em up games (also known as ‘Shmups’) on your preferred modern-day console. How? With the IREM Collection! The IREM Corporation, originally known as IPM Co., Ltd., was founded in 1974 in Osaka, Japan and the corporation developed several notable arcade games. IREM collection Volume 1 will be the first out of 5 volumes of the series and will feature Image flight 1, 2 and X Multiply originally released in the late 80s and early 90s.
What makes these modern games retro? Well they are the definition of retro. The only difference is that they will be available for the modern-day consoles as a collectible series. The ultimate gift for the retro geeks among us.
Retro score: 5 out of 5 retro stars
Release date: November 21, 2023
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox
Modern retro games for the win?
Did we pique your interest? Let us know what you think about the mentioned games and if you know other modern retro games that are worth our while! You can find us on Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok or Facebook.
