The Top 50 Games of the 1990s

As we enter into one of the most challenging eras of the gaming industry, one will often find oneself reminiscing. The 1990s laid the foundation for modern gaming as we know it today. This decade was a golden age for the industry, full of innovative, creative titles that left a powerful impression on gamers worldwide. From pixelated graphics and 8-bit soundtracks to groundbreaking leaps to 3D environments, here are the top 50 games of the 1990s.

50. Grandia

• Release Date – September 30, 1999
• Release Platform – Sega Saturn / PlayStation / Nintendo Switch / Windows
• Metacritic Score – 89 (Generally Favorable)

Grandia is not only one of the best JRPGS of all time but one of the best video games period. The game has a compelling narrative, centered around the young adventurer Justin as he embarks on an adventure full of amazing characters and storylines. Grandia has a strategic and dynamic combat system, where characters can interrupt enemy actions. These qualities separate it from other RPGs of the time.

49. Einhander

• Release Date – May 5, 1998
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 89 (Generally Favorable)

This iconic scrolling shooter was pivotal for the shoot ’em up genre. Square Enix has been killing it lately with their release of theFinal Fantasy XVI andFinal Fantasy VII Rebirth. However, their dominance has been cemented since the early 90s and this is one of their best titles. The game’s atmospheric design, dystopian environments, and cinematic set pieces established Einhander as a certified classic.

48. Descent 3

• Release Date – June 17, 1999
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 89 (Generally Favorable)

Descent 3 pushed the boundaries of the first-person shooter genre. The game allowed players full 3D movement which was revolutionary for the time. Descent 3 had linear gameplay and open-ended gameplay that supported the game’s design pillars of exploration and freedom. On top of that, the game offered robust multiplayer modes alongside its single-player campaign to round out the experience. Truly a pioneer in gaming.

47. The Curse Of Monkey Island

• Release Date – October 31, 1997
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 89 (Generally Favorable)

When it comes to storytelling, quirky humor, and charm, it just doesn’t get better than The Curse Of Monkey Island. LucasArts completely dominated the 1990s with its titles and continued to do so with the iconic Monkey Island series. This title struck the perfect balance between point-and-click adventure mechanics with a gripping narrative and unforgettable characters. The hand-drawn cartoon visuals brought the world to life and stood the test of time. This game is a must-play.

46. Tekken 2

• Release Date – August 25, 1996
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 89 (Generally Favorable)

Fighting games would not be the same withoutTekken 2. The game’s 3D fighting mechanics were ahead of its time and offered fans a dynamic combat experience with an extensive range of martial arts techniques. On top of that, Tekken 2 brought stunning graphics, unforgettable stages, and an amazing soundtrack to the table securing its place among the top 50 games of the 1990s.

45. Fallout

• Release Date – October 9, 1997
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 89 (Generally Favorable)

Fallout stood out amongst its contemporaries for many reasons. The game captivated players with its post-apocalyptic setting, amazing storytelling, and open-world layout. Fallout allowed for immense player agency truly allowing them to shape the story based on choices and consequences. The S.P.E.C.I.A.L. system adds depth to the gameplay and allows for even more control in how your character exists and interacts with others in the world.

44. Wipeout 3

• Release Date – September 23, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 89 (Generally Favorable)

They really don’t make futuristic racers anymore and Wipeout 3 is the pinnacle of futuristic racing. This fast-paced title continued the legacy established in its earlier titles. Wipeout 3 is stylish, sleek, and is set in a visually stunning world. The soundtrack is immersive and full of these aggressive thumping electronic beats to make you really feel as if you’re racing at high speeds in the future. This title is speed, style, and innovation in its purest form and its influence resonates as the years go on.

43. Beetle Adventure Racing!

• Release Date – February 28, 1999
• Release Platform – Nintendo 64
• Metacritic Score – 90 (Universal Acclaim)

Beetle Adventure Racing!shocked gamers all over with its unexpected charm and innovative approach to racing games. The game showcased that even ordinary vehicles could be fun to race with. This title can be credited with turning the classic Volkswagen Beetle into a racing icon. This game’s emphasis on exploration within races to find hidden shortcuts is what elevated it beyond other racing games. This is easily a Top 50 game for creativity alone.

42. Command & Conquer: Red Alert

• Release Date – November 22, 1996
• Release Platform – Windows / IOS
• Metacritic Score – 90 (Universal Acclaim)

Command & Conquer: Red Alert followed a legendary title and left them behind in their shadow. This title stormed onto the gaming scene as it is a real-time strategy masterpiece. The game takes place in an alternate timeline where the Cold War escalated into a full-fledged conflict. The game’s narrative was only supported by its great cutscenes and charismatic commanders. With an addicting multiplayer mode on top of it all, this game is a cornerstone in gaming history.

41. Final Fantasy VIII

• Release Date – September 7, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 90 (Universal Acclaim)

The Final Fantasy series is no stranger to controversial entries but none of them are quite as divisive as Final Fantasy VIII. The narrative of Final Fantasy VIII is a strange one but mostly succeeds at juggling politics, intricate characters, and love. The game’s revolutionary Junction System adds a unique layer of strategy to turn-based combat. Hate it or love it, Final Fantasy VIII has left an enduring legacy and is a timeless classic.

40. Blast Corps

• Release Date – February 28, 1997
• Release Platform – Nintendo 64
• Metacritic Score – 90 (Universal Acclaim)

Blast Corps is an innovative take on action and puzzle-solving gameplay. The game has a unique premise where players assume the role of a demolition expert tasked with clearing a path for a runaway nuclear missile carrier. Blast Corps encourages experimentation and creativity to solve its challenges with some of the most clever level designs of the 90s. Coupled with tight controls and a memorable soundtrack this game is a must-play for those who are fans of this era of gaming.

39. Donkey Kong 64

• Release Date – November 24, 1999
• Release Platform – Nintendo 64
• Metacritic Score – 90 (Universal Acclaim)

Donkey Kong was one of the 90s mascots that gracefully transitioned into 3D. This title allowed players to play multiple Kong characters, each with their own unique abilities, which allowed for multiple ways to navigate the world. The game perfectly showed off the Nintendo 64 hardware with its expansive puzzle-filled levels. Donkey Kong 64 is a fan favorite and is a pivotal title in the history of 3D platformers.

38. Ape Escape

• Release Date – June 23, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 90 (Universal Acclaim)

Ape Escape was the first game to require the use of dual analog sticks for precise control and movement. This title completely set a new standard for immersive gameplay for the years to come. Ape Escape is remembered for its charming art style, whimsical characters, and soundtrack much like most of this list. What setApe Escape apart though is its control scheme and without it, games as a whole would not be the same.

37. Syphon Filter

• Release Date – February 17, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 90 (Universal Acclaim)

Syphon Filter pioneered the third-person shooter genre, that alone earns it a spot on this list. This title blended action and stealth elements for a classic gameplay loop that’s still fun to this day. The game’s intuitive controls and use of gadgets provided a level of depth that was unseen at the time. With its complex plot and engaging cutscenes this is one of the best games from the 90s that’s still pretty accessible today.

36. Crash Bandicoot: Warped

• Release Date – November 3, 1998
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Crash Bandicoot: Warped is what the original Crash Bandicoot trilogy was working towards. This title feels like the culmination of everything Naughty Dog learned developing the previous two titles. The time-traveling through different eras to collect power-ups was an interesting take on the formula.

35. Mario Golf

• Release Date – June 30, 1999
• Release Platform – Nintendo 64
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Accessibility has always been Mario’s strong suit and this title is the definition of accessible. The game is a nice fusion for fans of Mario and the leisurely pace and strategy of golf. Mario Golf can cater to both casual and competitive players which is the mark of any good sports game.

34. Legacy Of Kain: Soul Reaver

• Release Date – August 13, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

In 1999, this title captivated players with its dark and atmospheric gameplay. The game was also praised for its mature storyline which wasn’t as common at the time. Soul Reaver’s groundbreaking use of shifting dimensions and spectral realms beautifully complimented the action-adventure formula.

33. Planescape: Torment

• Release Date – December 14, 1999
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Planescape: Torment is another title from the 90s that tried to push the genre forward. This classic is set in the Planescape universe and offers a rich and philosophical journey. The narrative involves existential themes, morality, and identity. This title is perfect for those seeking a deep and mature game, that’ll leave them contemplating their own identity.

32. Resident Evil

• Release Date – March 30, 1996
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Resident Evil is one of the defining titles of the survival horror genre. The game’s fixed camera angles, meticulous pacing, and scarce resources heightened the tension and played into the game’s atmosphere. This game’s success has had rippling effects throughout the horror genre.

31. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis

• Release Date – November 11, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Resident Evil3: Nemesis continued to perfect what made the previous two Resident Evil titles great. This title introduced the relentless bio-weapon Nemesis which added a new level of unpredictability to the game. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis maintained all of the great aspects of its predecessors while refining the gameplay mechanics and introducing new ones.

30. Star Wars Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II

• Release Date – October 9, 1997
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Star Wars Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II combined the rich lore of the extended Star Wars universe with amazing first-person shooter gameplay and lightsaber combat. This title continued the story of Kyle Katarn and allowed players to choose between the light and dark sides of the Force. This game’s multiplayer mode also added to its longevity as a title.

29. Tomb Raider

• Release Date – November 15, 1996
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Lara Croft is one of gaming’s most iconic characters and one of the most iconic female protagonists of all time.Tomb Raider revolutionized 3D graphics and level design with its tombs, intricate puzzles, and detailed platforming elements. This title laid down the foundation for many other action-adventure games.

28. FreeSpace 2

• Release Date – September 30, 1999
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

FreeSpace 2 offers a compelling narrative and refined gameplay as it expands on the success of the first title. This title’s dynamic storyline and its excellent multiplayer mode made this a fan favorite.FreeSpace 2 is one of the many influential titles that inspired the space simulation games of today.

27. Colony Wars

• Release Date – November 4, 1997
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Colony Wars separated itself from the other space simulation games by being an immersive space opera. Players assumed the role of a pilot fighting in an interstellar war. The narrative branched depending on the player’s decisions throughout the game. This title showed developers that there is potential in a space combat game with a focus on narrative and player choice.

26. Baldur’s Gate

• Release Date – December 21, 1998
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Baldur’s Gate received critical acclaim and is credited for revitalizing CRPGs. For each new playthrough, the player can create a new character or import one they exported from a previous playthrough. The freedom found in the most recent game in the series is very present in the original title and some character storylines originate here.

25. Myth: The Fallen Lords

• Release Date – October 31, 1997
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 91 (Universal Acclaim)

Myth: The Fallen Lords is arguably the first RTS game to truly be 3D. This game stands out amongst the other RTS titles because it emphasizes battlefield action and fighting. The absence of base-building made this game a refreshing take on the genre causing it the leave a lasting impact on the RTS genre.

24. Medal Of Honor

• Release Date – October 31, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

Medal of Honor set a new standard for World War II-themed first-person shooters. This game had a beautiful cinematic presentation thanks to being directed by the prolific Steven Spielberg. He brought a realistic and intense vibe to the genre. This game was historically accurate and perfectly captured the gravity of World War II.

23. Final Fantasy VII

• Release Date – September 7, 1997
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

Final Fantasy VII is one of if not THE most influential RPGs of all time. This game is also the very first triple-A game due to its staggering budget. Square Enix completely succeeded in releasing a generational title. The game tackles themes of loss, capitalism, and identity which all set new benchmarks for narrative-driven gaming experiences. This title’s influence can still be felt in the gaming industry.

22. Sid Meier’s Alpha Centauri

• Release Date – February 12, 1999
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

This title is known and praised for its complexity. This turn-based strategy game takes the Civilization formula and expands it to an interstellar level. Players are tasked with leading one of seven factions with distinct ideologies and goals. The game’s narrative, world-building, and gameplay mechanics cement it as a top 50 game of the 90s.

21. Wave Race 64

• Release Date – November 1, 1996
• Release Platform – Nintendo 64
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

Wave Race 64 was breathtaking for the time. The game had beautiful dynamic water physics that helped the game stand out as an immersive experience. The wave dynamics added another layer of realism as the players had to adapt to changing waters. This game is a technical marvel and will continue to be adored as time goes on.

20. Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings

• Release Date – September 30, 1999
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

This title is my personal favorite of the Age of Empires series. This game excels in providing the perfect balance of everything that makes a good RTS. Resource management, strategic warfare, and base building are all present in this title with historical accuracy and attention to detail to boot.Age of Empires II‘s influence extended far beyond its initial release, and it continues to be celebrated with an active player community, expansions, and a high-definition remaster.

19. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater

• Release Date – September 29, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

This game not only revolutionized the sports genre but left its mark on video games as a whole. To this day, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater stands out for its intuitive fast-paced gameplay. This game can easily be picked up by anyone today and enjoyed. The soundtrack features a mix of punk, rock, and hip-hop tracks and because of this game’s success, those tracks are now considered skateboarder classics.

18. Thief: The Dark Project

• Release Date – November 30, 1998
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

Thief: The Dark Project is a pivotal game in the stealth/immersive-sim genre. The title used light and sound mechanics to challenge players. This forced them to meticulously plan every movement to avoid detection. This game is a masterclass in player agency and level design.

17. System Shock 2

• Release Date – August 11, 1999
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

System Shock 2 is a true masterpiece. This game is known for its narrative being told through an audio-log system. This created a sense of isolation and suspense as players navigated the setting. On top of that, Shodan, added a layer of psychological horror and is considered one of the most memorable antagonists in gaming history.

16. Sid Meier’s Gettysburg!

• Release Date – September 30, 1997
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

Another entry by the legendary Sid Meier. Gettysburg! is praised for capturing the tactical intricacies of the Civil War. The game takes pride in its historical accuracy which allowed players to command Union or Confederate forces in realistic scenarios. Even though the game’s AI was noteworthy, it was the multiplayer functionality that enhanced the experience. This game’s impact is present in the many strategy games that came after it.

15. Banjo-Kazooie

• Release Date – June 29, 1998
• Release Platform – Nintendo 64
• Metacritic Score – 92 (Universal Acclaim)

While the game is criticized for being a little too similar to Super Mario 64, fans and critics alike praise the game for being able to expand on something that revolutionized 3D gaming. The game has great visuals, a nostalgic soundtrack, and hilarious writing. This game is another accessible title for modern gamers and those who give it a chance will realize its importance. Banjo-Kazooie is a must-play.

14. Wipeout XL

• Release Date – September 30, 1996
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 93 (Universal Acclaim)

This game is considered to be one of the best arcade racers of all time. Its controls take some time to master but once you do this game’s classic status becomes apparent. The game’s high-speed, anti-gravity racing concept and futuristic visuals make it a product of its era and a great game to play for those nostalgic for the 90s.

13. Homeworld

• Release Date – August 31, 1999
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 93 (Universal Acclaim)

Homeworld is a rare gem considered by many to be a feat in programming, graphics, and sound production. This is one of the few RTS games that are considered to be perfect. The game’s narrative is compelling and follows the Kushan people as they attempt to reclaim their homeworld, Hiigara.

12. Gran Turismo 2

• Release Date – December 23, 1999
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 93 (Universal Acclaim)

Gran Turismo 2 is a landmark title in the racing game genre. With over 600 cars to choose from and impressive attention to car physics and handling, it’s amazing that this game ever came out. This is another title that showcased the capabilities of its hardware and was a glimpse into where video games were going.

11. Diablo

• Release Date – December 31, 1996
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 94 (Universal Acclaim)

Diablo is an action RPG that needs no introduction. While it may not have aged as well as other releases on this list, this title was a phenomenon upon release. The game is atmospheric and a time-sink. When this game came out in ’96, its randomized dungeon layouts and loot system kept players hooked. The iconic visual style, haunting soundtrack, and the sense of progression through character development and loot acquisition made Diablo a critical and commercial success.

10. Grim Fandango

• Release Date – October 14, 1998
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 94 (Universal Acclaim)

This game was a commercial failure but sales aren’t everything and there’s a reason we still talk about this game almost 3 decades later. Grim Fandango is one of the most important games of all time. It is a unique point-and-click adventure game that follows one of the most interesting narratives to have ever been written.

9. Metal Gear Solid

• Release Date – October 21, 1998
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 94 (Universal Acclaim)

Metal Gear Solid is not only one of the best games of all time, it’s one of the most influential games of all time. This game is known to this day for its game design and approach to boss fights. I truly believe there hasn’t been a boss fight as interesting as Psychomantis since this title and with its rerelease this year, there’s no reason gamers should not have played this. A cornerstone title in the action-adventure genre.

8. Quake

• Release Date – June 22, 1996
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 94 (Universal Acclaim)

Quake is one of the titles that showcased the shift from sprite-based graphics to 3D Renders. The game is also a pioneer in esports, online multiplayer wasn’t the same after this title. The Quake community is vibrant and competitive and the modding community is keeping it alive.Quake’s impact on the FPS genre is immeasurable.

7. Sid Meier’s Civilization II

• Release Date – February 29, 1996
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 94 (Universal Acclaim)

If it isn’t obvious at this point, Sid Meier is a game design genius.Civilization II is incredible and addicting since every game is different than the last. Just when the formula seems to be getting stale, the developers find a way to keep the series feeling fresh.

6. Gran Turismo

• Release Date – May 12, 1998
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 96 (Universal Acclaim)

Any lover of cars would see what makes Gran Turismo so great. This title is a must-play for anyone who enjoys racing games. Emphasis on realism set this game apart from its contemporaries.

5. Half-Life

• Release Date – November 19, 1998
• Release Platform – Windows
• Metacritic Score – 96 (Universal Acclaim)

Half-Life is a classic in every sense of the word with nearly perfect scores across the board. This is one of the first games with a silent protagonist which allowed for the story to unfold around the player. The game’s AI-driven characters and scripted events created a dynamic and unpredictable gaming experience, setting a new standard for environmental storytelling. Those who want to experience the roots of modern FPS games can start with this one.

4. Tekken 3

• Release Date – April 29, 1998
• Release Platform – PlayStation
• Metacritic Score – 96 (Universal Acclaim)

The reasons we love Tekken today can be found in this game as well. This game introduced many of the game’s staple characters. Tekken 3’s graphics were cutting-edge for its time with its fluid animations and detailed 3D environments. A perfect fighter for casual and competitive players, Tekken 3 is a peak fighting game.

3. GoldenEye 007

• Release Date – August 25, 1997
• Release Platform – Nintendo 64
• Metacritic Score – 96 (Universal Acclaim)

GoldenEye 007 is the best FPS of all time. Inspired by the 1995 James Bond film, this game had a compelling campaign that closely followed the movie’s storyline. What truly distinguished this game was its exceptional multiplayer. The four-player split-screen multiplayer battles became legendary, providing intense and memorable gaming experiences for friends gathered around the same console.

2. SoulCalibur

• Release Date – September 8, 1999
• Release Platform – Dreamcast
• Metacritic Score – 98 (Universal Acclaim)

At the time, this was the best-looking game on the market. On top of cutting-edge graphics, this game introduced the eight-way run system which allowed characters to move freely in a 3D space. Soul Calibur‘s single-player modes were perfect for those who wanted to hone their skills alone. Depending on who you ask, this is the best fighting game of all time and even if you disagree it’s the most influential.

The Best Game From The 1990s, The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time

• Release Date – November 23, 1998
• Release Platform – Nintendo 64
• Metacritic Score – 99 (Universal Acclaim)

This title is seen primarily as the undisputed best game of all time. The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time is Nintendo’s magnum opus. Even if gamers prefer other titles, modern video games owe themselves to this title. When you look atthis game as the blueprint that allowed for all of the modern classics to exist then its status as the greatest game of all time because undisputable.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Collage of Ape escape, star wars, and syphon filter.