Retro gaming refers to playing or collecting older video games and gaming systems, typically those from the late 20th century up to the early 2000s. It’s a nostalgic journey back to classics that defined gaming history, from 8-bit and 16-bit consoles to early home computers and arcades.
Some iconic retro systems include the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo (SNES), PlayStation 1, and arcade machines like Pac-Man or Street Fighter II. Games from this era often emphasized simple, addictive gameplay over cutting-edge graphics—think Super Mario Bros., Tetris, Final Fantasy VII, or Sonic the Hedgehog.
Part of the appeal lies in the nostalgia: revisiting games that shaped childhoods or discovering timeless titles that still hold up today. Many retro games are also celebrated for their creativity and design, as developers worked within strict hardware limits to craft memorable experiences.
Today, retro gaming thrives through emulators, re-released collections (like Nintendo’s Virtual Console), and even modern consoles with retro-inspired games. It’s not just about playing old games—it’s about honoring the roots of the gaming industry.