10 NES Classics You Can Own Now: Rediscover the Games That Started It All
Posted by Drew Steimel on Aug. 26th, 2024
Rediscover 10 Classic NES Games: The Retro Experience Every Parent Needs to Share with Their Kids
When I was a kid, nothing quite compared to the feeling of firing up the NES after school. It was more than just a console; it was a ticket to a world of adventure. The magic of those pixelated worlds stayed with me, and now, as a dad, I get to experience the joy of passing that torch to my kids. If you’ve been thinking about introducing your kids to the games that shaped your childhood, this list of NES classics is the perfect place to start.
Best for all ages
No list of NES classics would be complete without Super Mario Bros. This was the game that kickstarted my gaming obsession—and I can’t be the only one who still hums the overworld theme without realizing it. It’s simple enough for younger kids to enjoy, but challenging enough that it still holds up for seasoned players.
When I played it for the first time, it felt like entering an entirely new universe. For today’s kids, the game is still a great introduction to platforming, with intuitive controls and timeless gameplay. Here’s a fun tip: there’s a hidden warp zone in World 1-2 that’ll let you skip to later levels—a handy trick when you want to impress your kids!
Best for older kids (10+)
I remember spending entire weekends immersed in The Legend of Zelda, with its sprawling map and cryptic puzzles. There were no hand-holding tutorials back then—just me, a pencil-drawn map, and the occasional hint from a friend on the school bus.
For older kids, this game is a perfect introduction to the world of open-world adventure gaming. Let them figure out where to go next or which items to use—there’s nothing like the feeling of discovering a hidden dungeon on your own. The real magic of this game lies in the exploration and problem-solving, and it’s a great way to challenge your child’s critical thinking.
Metroid was the first game that made me feel like a true adventurer. The dark, atmospheric setting and the challenge of navigating its maze-like world was unlike anything I had played before. And who can forget the shocking reveal that Samus was a woman?
Introduce your kids to Metroid as their first real sci-fi adventure. It’s perfect for older kids who love a good challenge and appreciate a bit of mystery. Just be prepared for them to ask for help figuring out where to go next. The non-linear gameplay makes this one an exciting puzzle in itself.
Great for all ages
I still remember the satisfying rumble of my bike in Excitebike. This game taught me that nothing is more rewarding than a well-timed ramp jump—or more punishing than a mistimed one! The game’s simplicity is what makes it so fun and replayable.
With Excitebike, younger kids will quickly grasp the controls, while older ones might get hooked on designing their own tracks. Yes, it lets you build your own levels! It’s a great mix of creativity and fast-paced action, perfect for family-friendly competition.
Fun for all ages (and a great 2-player option!)
Dr. Mario was my introduction to puzzle games, and let me tell you—this game will have you hooked for hours. Imagine Tetris, but with viruses and pills, and you get the general idea. It’s a great game to bond over with your kids, especially in two-player mode, where the friendly competition never ends.
Here’s a tip: clearing multiple viruses with a single pill is the key to scoring big, and the faster your reflexes, the better you’ll get. For younger kids, the game offers adjustable speeds to make it easier to grasp.
Best for kids who enjoy sports (and parents who love to win)
When Tecmo Bowl hit the scene, it revolutionized sports gaming. This was the game we played for hours with friends—and it’s still fun today, especially when you want to teach your kids the basics of football while reliving your glory days.
While the graphics are simple, the gameplay holds up, with surprisingly deep strategy for an 8-bit football game. And yes, Bo Jackson is still a beast! Show your kids how you can dominate the field like it’s 1989 all over again.
Best for older kids (due to difficulty)
Ah, Contra—the game that taught me the importance of teamwork and the beauty of the Konami Code (up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start!). My friends and I would tackle this game for hours, and with the code, we could finally get past those tougher levels.
For kids, Contra is a fast-paced shooter that requires quick reflexes and cooperation when playing in two-player mode. It’s a tough game, so I recommend it for older children who don’t mind a good challenge. And trust me—teaching them the Konami Code will make you look like a gaming wizard.
Best for younger kids
Remember the thrill of aiming that NES Zapper at your TV screen? Duck Hunt might seem simple now, but for younger kids, this game can provide endless fun. Just hand them the Zapper and let them go to town trying to hit those ducks (or clay pigeons, if you’re feeling fancy).
For families with newer TVs, don’t worry—DK Oldies offers TV conversion adapters so you can use the Zapper without any hiccups on modern screens. Watching your child’s excitement as they take down their first duck is priceless.
Best for older kids (10+)
Castlevania was dark, gothic, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s the game that made battling through Dracula’s castle a rite of passage for NES players. The difficulty is brutal but fair, making it a rewarding challenge for older kids who love a good adventure.
One tip I learned the hard way—always save your hearts for when you really need them. Those bosses won’t go down easily, and your kids will appreciate a little advice as they navigate through the haunting corridors.
Great for younger kids
There’s something irresistibly charming about Bubble Bobble, with its cute dinosaurs and endless bubble-popping fun. This game is perfect for younger kids who want to play something colorful and upbeat. Plus, it’s got two-player co-op, which makes it a great bonding game for siblings—or for a parent-kid team!
The trick with Bubble Bobble is to trap enemies in bubbles before they get too close, and with the right teamwork, you’ll breeze through the early levels. For me, it was a game that always put a smile on my face, and it’s sure to do the same for your kids.
These NES classics represent the best of what gaming had to offer in the 80s, and they’re just as fun today as they were back then. Whether you're introducing your kids to the timeless adventures of The Legend of Zelda or teaming up in Bubble Bobble, there’s something here for every type of player.
And remember—if your TV isn’t quite up to the task of handling these retro games, DK Oldies has you covered with their TV conversion adapters, so you can get the full experience on modern screens.
It’s time to rediscover the magic, one 8-bit game at a time!