10 Iconic 90s Video Games That Shaped Our Childhood

The 1990s were more than just a decade—they were a golden era for gaming. Whether it was huddling around a CRT screen with friends or blowing into cartridge games to get them to work, 90s kids will remember the thrill of discovering new digital worlds. These classic 90s console games not only defined a generation, they continue to fuel our nostalgia today.

In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 retro games of the 90s—video games we grew up with, the ones that truly shaped our childhood.

1. Super Mario Bros. (NES)

No list of nostalgic 90s games we all played would be complete without Super Mario. Even though it debuted in the late '80s, it exploded in popularity throughout the 90s thanks to re-releases and the launch of Super Mario World. Jumping on Goombas and rescuing Princess Peach became the ultimate weekend ritual.

2. Sonic the Hedgehog (SEGA Genesis)

While Nintendo had Mario, SEGA Genesis classic games brought us Sonic—the blue blur with attitude. Racing through Green Hill Zone collecting rings was exhilarating, and Sonic quickly became one of the most iconic video games from the 90s.

 

3. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64)

Ask any gamer for the best 90s video games list, and Zelda: Ocarina of Time is almost always near the top. With its immersive storyline, open world, and challenging puzzles, this game set a new standard for action-adventure gaming.

4. Pokémon Red and Blue (Game Boy)

These childhood video games from the 90s launched a global phenomenon. Whether you chose Charmander or Squirtle, the journey to become a Pokémon Master had us hooked for hours. Catching ‘em all was not just a game—it was a lifestyle.

 

5. Street Fighter II (Arcade/SNES)

Nostalgic arcade games from the 90s like Street Fighter II weren’t just about button-mashing. They were about skill, strategy, and style. Ryu’s Hadouken and Chun-Li’s kicks are burned into our muscle memory forever.

6. Mortal Kombat (Arcade/SNES/Genesis)

Controversial yet legendary, Mortal Kombat was one of the video games that defined childhood for many 90s kids. Its brutal finishers and digitized characters made it stand out—and stirred up plenty of playground debates.

 

7. Final Fantasy VII (PlayStation)

This entry in the Final Fantasy franchise brought us to Midgar, introduced us to Cloud and Sephiroth, and gave us hours of rich storytelling. It’s one of the most praised PlayStation 90s games and continues to evoke deep gaming memories from the 90s.

8. Crash Bandicoot (PlayStation)

Few mascots were as zany and lovable as Crash. With difficult platforming and hilarious animations, it quickly became one of the most popular video games from the 90s. Who could forget the spinning attacks and boulder chases?

9. Donkey Kong Country (SNES)

Games 90s kids will remember always include this beautifully designed platformer. With its groundbreaking pre-rendered graphics and banana-collecting madness, Donkey Kong Country became a staple in many childhoods.

10. Tomb Raider (PlayStation/PC)

Lara Croft was the bold, intelligent heroine we didn’t know we needed. Tomb Raider combined puzzle-solving with action-adventure, making it clear why 90s games are still popular today—they gave us stories and characters we cared about.

🕹️ Why These Games Still Matter Today

The beauty of these retro 90s video games to play again lies in their simplicity, creativity, and emotional connection. They were more than games—they were gateways to imagination and togetherness. Whether you were fighting in arcades or raising a digital monster on your Game Boy, these experiences defined a generation.

🎁 Feeling Nostalgic?

At The Snap Vault, we celebrate these gaming memories by curating special throwback gift boxes. From 90s collectibles to personalized retro packs, our products are designed to take you back in time—when life was 16-bit, and fun was endless.