Retro gaming is more than just a nostalgic hobby—it’s a thriving subculture that connects players with the roots of video game history. Whether you’re dusting off an old NES or discovering the magic of arcade classics for the first time, retro gaming offers a unique experience that modern games often can’t replicate. This article explores what retro gaming is, why people are drawn to it, and the key things you should know if you’re thinking of diving in.
What Is Retro Gaming?
Retro gaming refers to the play and appreciation of older video games, often from the late 1970s to the early 2000s. This can include consoles like the Atari 2600, NES, Sega Genesis, PlayStation 1, and Nintendo 64, as well as handhelds like the Game Boy and retro-style PC games.
There’s no universally agreed-upon date for when a game becomes “retro,” but a general rule of thumb is that a console or game is considered retro about 15–20 years after its release. That means even systems like the PlayStation 2 and GameCube are now part of the retro landscape.
Categories of Retro Gaming
- Console gaming: Playing on older home consoles using original hardware.
- Arcade gaming: Using arcade cabinets or emulators to play coin-op classics like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, or Street Fighter II.
- PC retro gaming: Running classic DOS or early Windows games either on vintage PCs or through emulators.
- Handheld retro gaming: Devices like the original Game Boy, Game Gear, or PSP now fall under retro gaming.
- Emulation and ROMs: Running retro games on modern devices using software emulators and digital copies of old games.
Why Do People Play Retro Games?
1. Nostalgia
One of the biggest draws of retro gaming is nostalgia. For many players, these were the games of their childhood or teenage years. Revisiting them can trigger powerful memories, creating a comforting and joyful experience.
2. Simplicity and Challenge
Older games tend to have simpler graphics and controls, but often offer a rawer, more challenging gameplay experience. There were no tutorials, save points were rare, and you had to learn by doing. This makes victories feel genuinely earned.
3. Historical Appreciation
Retro games are a form of digital archaeology. Many players enjoy studying how game design has evolved, from the early pixel art of Super Mario Bros. to the 3D experiments of the PlayStation era.
4. Affordability (Sometimes)
While rare titles can be expensive, many retro games are accessible—especially through legal digital re-releases or emulation. Services like Nintendo Switch Online, PlayStation Classics, or GOG.com offer curated retro libraries.
5. Community and Collecting
Retro gaming has a vibrant community, from YouTubers and Twitch streamers to online forums and local meetups. Some enjoy the hunt for rare cartridges or building pristine collections of old consoles.
How to Get Started with Retro Gaming
1. Decide Your Approach: Original Hardware vs. Emulation
Original Hardware
Playing on the original console offers the most authentic experience. However, it can be costly or tricky due to aging tech, scarcity, or compatibility with modern TVs.
- Pros: Authenticity, tactile experience, nostalgia.
- Cons: Expensive, fragile hardware, outdated video connections.
Emulation
Emulation uses software to mimic older consoles, letting you play games on PCs, smartphones, or dedicated devices like the Raspberry Pi or handhelds like the Anbernic RG35XX.
- Pros: Convenient, customizable, affordable.
- Cons: Legal concerns with ROMs, less authentic feel, occasional glitches.
There’s also a middle ground: modern consoles and mini systems like the NES Classic or Sega Genesis Mini, which use emulation but are officially licensed and plug-and-play.
2. Choose a Console or Era
Start with a generation that interests you. Some of the most popular retro gaming eras include:
- 8-bit era (1983–1989): NES, Sega Master System. Iconic platformers and early RPGs.
- 16-bit era (1989–1996): SNES, Sega Genesis. Peak pixel art and more complex gameplay.
- 32/64-bit era (1994–2002): PlayStation 1, Nintendo 64, Sega Saturn. Early 3D gaming and disc-based media.
- Early 2000s (2000–2006): PlayStation 2, GameCube, Xbox. High-quality graphics and deep game libraries.
Each era has a distinct aesthetic, control scheme, and game library, so pick one that speaks to your taste.
3. Know the Legalities
When emulating games, the legality depends on how you acquire the game files (ROMs or ISOs). Downloading copyrighted games you don’t own is typically illegal. However:
- Some publishers sell official ROMs or classic collections.
- Many old PC games are now abandonware or released as freeware.
- Backing up your own cartridges or discs for personal use is often considered fair use, depending on your country.
When in doubt, look for official re-releases, like those on GOG, Nintendo Online, or Capcom Arcade Stadium.
4. Buy Smart
If you want to collect original hardware or games:
- Check local listings: Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, flea markets, and garage sales often have retro treasures.
- Use reputable sellers: eBay, DKOldies, Lukie Games, and Etsy (though prices may be marked up).
- Beware of fakes: Repro carts and knockoff systems are common. Do your research.
- Consider upscaling options: If you’re using original hardware, you may need an HDMI adapter or upscaler like the RetroTINK to play on modern TVs.
5. Explore the Classics
Some games are legendary for a reason. Here are a few titles that are widely celebrated and a great starting point:
- NES: Super Mario Bros. 3, The Legend of Zelda, Mega Man 2
- SNES: Chrono Trigger, Super Metroid, Final Fantasy VI
- Genesis: Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Streets of Rage 2, Gunstar Heroes
- PlayStation 1: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid
- Nintendo 64: Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, GoldenEye 007
These are just entry points—every retro console has hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
6. Join the Community
Part of the joy of retro gaming is sharing the experience with others. Consider:
- Reddit: Subreddits like r/retrogaming and r/patientgamers are great for discussions, tips, and recommendations.
- Discord servers: Many gaming communities have active chat rooms.
- YouTube and Twitch: Streamers and creators like MetalJesusRocks, My Life in Gaming, or SNES Drunk produce fantastic retro content.
- Conventions: Events like Portland Retro Gaming Expo or Classic Game Fest let you meet other fans and vendors in person.
7. Maintain Your Gear
If you’re using original hardware:
- Clean cartridges before inserting them to avoid damaging pins.
- Store in dry conditions to avoid corrosion.
- Replace capacitors in old consoles if needed—this helps prevent failure.
- Use surge protectors to avoid power issues with aging electronics.
If you’re into handhelds, consider replacing aging batteries and screens. There’s a huge modding scene for Game Boys and other devices.
Final Thoughts
Retro gaming offers a rewarding blend of nostalgia, challenge, and discovery. Whether you’re revisiting childhood favorites or experiencing classic games for the first time, it’s a fantastic way to connect with the medium’s history. With a little knowledge and the right tools, anyone can start enjoying the charm of gaming’s golden eras.
Whether you’re a collector, a curious newcomer, or someone looking to re-experience games that shaped your youth, retro gaming is as alive today as it was decades ago—just with better video cables and more save states.