Isn‘t it a pity that we don’t see many video games resembling those from the time of Nintendo 64 (N64) and PlayStation 2 anymore? It would be great if there were more of those classic-style games available today.
As the interest in AA (Action-Adventure) games wanes within the gaming market, it’s tough not to reminisce about the ones that stirred feelings of nostalgia from past times. Titles such as those from the Nintendo 64 and PlayStation 2, which showcased unique polygonal styles, were true gems during their era. For instance, Super Mario Sunshine allowed us to clean up Isle Delfino using our trusty F.L.U.D.D., while Metal Gear Solid, the initial tactical stealth espionage game from Hideo Kojima, remains relevant today thanks to its enduring polygonal aesthetics.
Today’s video games have reached unprecedented levels of realism, and while it’s true that this is an appealing feature, many major publishers seem to be neglecting a return to their roots. Instead of creating games that remind us of the nostalgic feel from the N64 or PlayStation 2 days, they are not making significant strides in that direction.
It’s great news that even though the AAA market hasn’t shown much interest in these types of games, the independent market is thriving and offering an impressive collection reminiscent of the glory days of retro gaming. Titles such as A Hat in Time embody the allure of Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie, while Crow Country employs the fixed-camera angles reminiscent of classic Resident Evil games.
Independent game developers are consistently striving to return gaming to its original essence. Although certain games may venture into radical experimentation, many defy conventions, offering experiences reminiscent of the late ’90s and early 2000s, yet infused with contemporary innovations.
I yearn for the days when I played games akin to Kingdom Hearts II, where my 3D character would start to malfunction if I stood stationary for an extended period. There’s something nostalgic about feeling lost and unsure of my direction, without obvious markers, guides, or clearly visible yellow paint indicating the path ahead.
A standout game that evoked that special quality for me was Team Asobi’s Astro Bot. This game is so lush and vivid it seems unquestionably cutting-edge, yet its mechanics draw inspiration from timeless titles of yesteryear. It was an exquisite fusion of old and new, which is why Astro Bot was one of my top games of the previous year – a genuine homage to the genre.
Modern games now require such high-quality graphics that even the most recent hardware is often necessary to run them optimally. If you don’t have the latest equipment, it might feel like you’re playing a game from the era of the original PlayStation 1.
It feels nostalgic, but it’s delightful to discover Steam games that remind me of the excitement I’ve been longing for. Titles such as Signalis, 1000xResist, Sayonara Wild Hearts, Tunic, and others have managed to evoke that special charm in me. (I’m also eagerly awaiting Clover Studios’ Okami Sequel.)
The games they’re creating don’t necessarily have to use the Unreal Engine 5. They can manage with a smaller development team and a more modest budget. What matters most is that they should simply be entertaining.
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2025-04-01 19:43