Looking for the best NES games ever made? Then you’re going to need this list of all NES games, ranked from best to worst by actual gamers. The original Nintendo NES console was released in 1983 and was the most popular game system of all time. One interesting aspect of the NES was that games were produced by hundreds of Nintendo Entertainment System game developers, both licensed and unlicensed. Fortunately for retro game lovers everywhere, Nintendo recently announced they will be selling a miniature version of the original console in November 2016. The console will come with 30 games pre-loaded on the system, including Mega Man 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, and more. The Nintendo Entertainment System now has a cult following amongst classic game collectors. For that reason, many of the games mentioned below will be hard to find outside of collections and may require you to spend hours searching online classified. For that reason, it is best to start with the best Nintendo NES games as they are the most common. Otherwise, happy hunting for the rare NES games below! It was a time when game developers could still get around the NES’ authentication system in order to publish games not approved by Nintendo. This list contains all of the best NES games and includes both licensed and unlicensed games.
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Immersive as it is exuberant, Super Mario Bros. 3 finds our beloved plumber traversing eight diverse worlds to once again save Princess Toadstool from wicked Bowser. The tantalizing power-up mechanics, intricate level design, and the inclusion of an overworld map were mind-blowers for their time. This bright and breezy adventure revolutionized platform gaming, making it a veritable icon of the 8-bit era.
A masterclass in non-linear storytelling, The Legend of Zelda has heroic Link embarking on a perilous quest to recover the Triforce parts and rescue Princess Zelda from evil Ganon’s claws. Uniquely open-world gameplay, replete with secret dungeons, challenging puzzles, and a plethora of heart-pounding combat, sets this game apart from its contemporaries. The Legend of Zelda not just set the gold-standard for adventure video games, it created an enduring franchise that inspires awe even today.
Pack your plumber’s outfit as you hop and bop your way through the Mushroom Kingdom in Super Mario Bros., on a mission to save Princess Peach from the dastardly Bowser. This hallmark of side-scrolling platformers combines simple controls with engaging gameplay, peppered with hidden warp pipes and power-up mushrooms. This game single-handedly pulled the video game industry out of the 80s slump, spawning countless sequels and setting the benchmark for all platformers.
Dodging aliens and blasting baddies, Contra's set of hardened commandos birthed the phrase "up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start" into every NES junkie's lexicon. Running and gunning took on a new meaning as its fast-paced action-orientated gameplay and tough-as-nails difficulty set it apart. Contra made co-op gaming a household term and the Konami code a piece of pop culture trivia.
Roll up your sleeves as you steer Mega Man through eight robot master stages in Mega Man 2, to thwart Dr. Wily’s nefarious schemes. This action platformer with its unique weapon-stealing mechanic, challenging platforming sections, and memorable soundtrack is a cult classic. Widely considered the best in the series, Mega Man 2 solidified the Blue Bomber's legendary status in video game history.
Lace up your gloves as you throw jabs and crosses in Punch-Out!!, to guide underdog Little Mac to championship glory. Its quirky cast of opponents, rhythm-based combat, and David versus Goliath narrative created a truly standout arcade-style boxing game. Punch-Out!! represented the sport in a fun, approachable fashion, truly punching above its weight in gaming circles.
Armed with your trusty whip and undead-slaying sub-weapons, Castlevania's vampire hunter Simon Belmont is a force to be reckoned with. The multitude of horror-themed levels, challenging bosses, and iconic music make this action-adventure a true NES classic. Castlevania was the start of a beloved franchise and spawned countless homages to its memorable gothic style.
Shred through Foot Clan ninjas with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Arcade Game, as you rescue April O'Neil and Splinter from Shredder’s clutches. Its button-mashing arcade-style gameplay combined with varied levels and memorable boss fights deliver a pitch-perfect Saturday morning cartoon vibe. As arguably the best-loved TMNT video game, it set the standard for future beat-em-up titles.
Astronaut Samus Aran's solitary sojourn on planet Zebes in Metroid set new benchmarks in atmosphere and exploration. Its novel blend of platforming, shooting, and non-linear exploration, with secret power-ups concealed within its sprawling alien environments, was ahead of its time. Metroid birthed the "Metroidvania" genre - emphasizing exploration and backtracking - and its female protagonist delivered an early blow for gender equality in gaming.
This two-in-one combo of Super Mario Bros. and Duck Hunt represents the quintessential NES experience. Bounce through the Mushroom Kingdom or practice your sharpshooting skills on pesky ducks, with staple platforming or light gun action. The bundle spurred widespread adoption of the NES, laying the foundation for Nintendo's subsequent dominance.
Gather your favorite pizza-loving turtles in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Arcade Game, protecting New York from Shredder and Krang's diabolical plot. Button-mashing combat, 80s arcade aesthetic, and that distinctive Turtle Power made this an unforgettable multiplayer slugfest. This game not only propelled the franchise's popularity but also propelled a genre of arcade beat-em-ups.
Master your ninja skills in Ninja Gaiden as you guide agile Ryu Hayabusa on an audacious quest for vengeance across six perilous levels. Its deceptively deep action mechanics, blended with infuriating difficulty and cinematic cut-scenes, were unparalleled at the time of its release. Ninja Gaiden left a profound impact on action games of the future, essentially creating the genre of 'action platformer'.
This game follows the adorable ball of pink, Kirby, through Dream Land as he recovers stolen dreams. The gameplay, with the innovative power-copying mechanic, added an extra layer of strategy to the adorable charm. Kirby's Adventure blew a breath of fresh air into the platform genre and marked the beginning of a colossal franchise.
Known for its killer difficulty spikes and masterful design, Mega Man 3 sees you battling nefarious Robot Masters to stop the evil Dr. Wily. The gameplay is built on a rock-solid foundation of tight platforming and gives players the freedom to choose levels. Mega Man 3's contribution to the Mega Man legacy - introducing the slide maneuver and Rush, Mega Man's dog, has cemented its place in the annals of gaming history.
A prequel to the original, Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse puts you in the shoes of Trevor Belmont as he battles unholy hordes to vanquish Dracula. A return to the series' traditional side-scrolling and whip-cracking gameplay, the game also introduced multiple playable characters and branching paths. Despite its punishing difficulty, it remains a beloved installment, showcasing the raw potential of the NES's 8-bit hardware.
Taking the Mushroom Kingdom's beloved plumber into the land of dreams, Super Mario Bros. 2 offered a strange and wonderful deviation from the original. It had eye-popping variety, with players now able to choose between Mario, Luigi, Toad, or Princess Peach - each with their unique abilities. The sequel proved that the franchise was no one-trick pony, fundamentally shaping the future directions of Mario games.
A groundbreaking relic from the 8-bit era, DuckTales has players guiding the eccentric tycoon Scrooge McDuck on a global treasure hunt. Gameplay here was a spicy mix of traditional platforming with extraordinary elements like Scrooge's bounce-able cane. DuckTales set a gold standard for video game adaptations of animated series, many struggled to follow suit.
As the granddaddy of all JRPGs, Final Fantasy pitches your band of heroic misfits against the evil empire and its diabolical leader, Garland. The turn-based combat and complex stat management make it a crunchy, punishing game. Final Fantasy birthed a franchise, transforming fantasy gaming with its dramatic storyline and comprehensive gameplay.
This heavy hitter in the sports game genre gives players control over all the NFL's teams to vie for the Super Bowl trophy. With its versatile gameplay, featuring both offensive and defensive strategies, it cranked the genre up a notch. Tecmo Super Bowl scored a touchdown in the sports market, paving the way for future football video games.
Street brawling was never this fun as in Double Dragon, where you clean up gang-infested streets to rescue your captured girlfriend. Its engaging two-player co-op, memorable enemy designs, and satisfying combat mechanics set the foundation for future beat 'em ups. Double Dragon punched the arcade into homes, inspiring countless imitators and proving that fighting games can shine on home consoles.
Transported from Soviet Russia to living rooms across the world, Tetris is the epitome of gaming simplicity - arrange falling blocks into horizontal lines for points. Combining accessible gameplay with an addictive “just one more go” appeal, the game was a breath of fresh Air. Tetris' entry on NES helped the puzzle game become a global phenomenon, introducing a generation to the joys of gaming.
Steer the caped crusader through Gotham City's mean streets in Batman, a tie-in to Tim Burton's 1989 film. Incorporating innovative wall-jumping mechanics, moody visuals, and a range of Bat-gadgets, this action-adventure pushed the NES’ capabilities. Batman helped cement the idea that strong gameplay and good use of source material can indeed converge in a licensed video game.
In this alien-blasting sequel, players retake the roles of Bill and Lance, to prevent an alien invasion. With a notable variety of power-ups and run-and-gun gameplay, Super Contra maintained a pulse-pounding pace throughout. The game stood unrivaled among its contemporaries and ensured that the Contra series would remain a blockbuster.
The game renowned for rocking the platformer boat centers on Mega Man's quest to stop the nefarious Dr. Wily. With its memorable power-up system and the ability to tackle levels in any order, Mega Man provided a unique take on the genre. The impact of this blue bomber was astronomical, setting the pace for a slew of sequels and spin-offs.
Avenge your dead girlfriend in Double Dragon II: The Revenge, a seminal beat 'em up set against a dystopian backdrop. Its punchy mechanics, co-op gameplay, and distinctive character designs made it an arcade-to-console triumph. Double Dragon II signposted a new direction for the "beat ‘em up" genre and spawned a new breed of multiplayer action games.
As the adventurous chipmunks, players embark on a quest to rescue their kidnapped friend, Gadget. The cooperative gameplay and elements of platforming added a fresh spin to the formula. It's no mystery that Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers played a key role in establishing licensed games as viable entertainment options.
As a remote-controlled car racer, players navigate intricate tracks and scramble for upgrades. The gameplay skillfully combined tactics and speed for an exhilarating experience. R.C. Pro-Am raced into gamers' hearts, influencing many racers to come.
In this beat 'em up reversal, our beloved turtles are thrust into action when Shredder kidnaps April. The brawler gameplay captured the spirit of the series perfectly. TMNT III's fun and frantic game mechanics contributed heavily to the popularisation of the beat 'em up style of play.
A geometric puzzle game that takes your Soviet builder on a speed-based block sorting spree. The gameplay revolves around precise manipulation and arrangement of falling pieces. Tetris' matchless influence on puzzle games is still felt today, laying the foundation for the entire genre.
This high-flying motocross game tasks players with mastering tracks and maintaining their bikes. The gameplay is a savvy mix of speed and strategy. Excitebike slammed the pedal to the metal, shaping a slew of future racing games.
Controlling a tank named SOPHIA, players journey through a mutant-infested world. Its dazzling mix of platforming and top-down exploration receives much acclaim. Blaster Master landed a significant impact on the Metroidvania genre, paving the way for countless games with similar elements.
In this hockey-themed game, players face off against computerized or fellow player opponents in a tense match. Its emphasis on fists flying brawls in addition to the score-earning objectives set it apart in the sports genre. Blades of Steel threw down the gauntlet for future ice hockey video games, establishing the genre's aggressive and competitive style.
This action-platformer follows Mega Man in his continued fight against the nefarious Dr. Wily and his army of Robot Masters. Boasting eight new stages, additional firepower with the Mega Buster, and brand new mini-bosses, this installment ups the ante in gameplay complexity and challenge. Mega Man 4 further solidified its place in gaming history, blending cerebral platforming with adrenaline-fueled action.
The sequel to the groundbreaking original, Zelda II has Link embarking on a quest to save a sleeping Princess Zelda. It deviates with a hybrid of side-scrolling action and overhead world exploration, while retaining the puzzle-solving and adventuring the series is known for. Despite a mixed reception, Zelda II remains an influential title, redefining the franchise in ways few sequel games ever have.
As two adorable dragons, players trap enemies in bubbles and pop them to the rhythm of an infectiously catchy tune. The simple gameplay hides a depth that keeps players coming back. Bubble Bobble bubbled up through gaming history, with its lasting impact seen in many couch co-op games today.
Rampage looses your furious monster on helpless cities, demanding destruction. The destructive, arcade-style gameplay was a magnet for many players. With its monstrous fun, Rampage towered over other games, shaping the genre of city-smashing chaos.
This beat 'em up title features rash, zitz and pimple, three anthropomorphic toads on a mission to rescue Princess Angelica from the Dark Queen. The gameplay is notoriously difficult, with brutal enemies and platforming levels that would give even seasoned players a run for their money. With its whacky humor and punishing difficulty, Battletoads has etched itself into gaming folklore.
Featuring the first crossover between real NFL athletes and virtual gameplay, Tecmo Bowl brought the gridiron to the living room in a staggering display of 8-bit brilliance. Players can choose between a handful of simplified play calls and guide their team downfield leveraging their star players' strengths. Its blend of engaging gameplay and real-life athletes made Tecmo Bowl a landmark title in the esports pioneer stage.
In the role of a nameless hero, you undertake a grand quest to save a princess and vanquish the evil Dragon King. As an early cornerstone of the RPG genre, Dragon Warrior's gameplay focused heavily on turn-based combat, character advancement, and world exploration. With its rich story, deep mechanics, and scaled difficulty, Dragon Warrior was a real game-changer.
Join high schoolers Alex and Ryan on a quest to rescue their abducted girlfriends from a nefarious gang lord. The game blends beat 'em up and RPG elements, encouraging players to purchase food and books to increase attributes and learn new techniques. Its cult status owes to its campy humor, gritty fights, and unique mechanics, making River City Ransom an NES classic.
Ryu Hayabusa, the nimble ninja, returns to take down the evil Jaquio and save the world once again. The gameplay is a blistering mix of action platforming and strategic combat, made even more intense by power-up clones and new sub-weapons. Ninja Gaiden II's cinematic storytelling and incredibly pitch-perfect difficulty scaling left a lasting impact on the gaming landscape.
The sequel to the TMNT game brings back the heroes in a half shell for more beat 'em up action against Shredder and his Foot Clan. The gameplay is a familiar mix of side-scrolling action, with each turtle sporting their unique weapons and abilities. As fun as a pizza party in a sewer, TMNT II brought the franchise into mainstream recognition, cementing the turtles' place in gaming history.
The blue bomber returns, battling new foes in this successful continuation of the highly popular series. With fresh levels to traverse and Robot Masters to defeat, Mega Man 5 keeps the solid platforming and combat mechanics that fans love. Its introduction of the collectible letter system and emphasis on environmental interaction distinctively carved Mega Man 5's spot in the series' lineage.
Embark on a heavenly quest as Pit, a young angel seeking to free the godly realm from the evil Medusa. The gameplay is a blend of platforming and exploration, with power-ups and recovery items along the way. Kid Icarus is mythologically profound, standing tall among NES titles for its unique premise and challenging ascents.
As soldier Ladd Spencer, you're armed with a bionic arm that you use to grapple across levels and thwart terrorists. Gameplay is a unique fusion of platforming and shooting, eschewing jumping for a unique, swinging mechanic. Bionic Commando swung into the platformer scene with flair, bringing innovative gameplay mechanics and a quirky charm that endeared it to NES gamers.
Stepping into the shoes of four unique warriors, players embark on a dungeon-crawling adventure fraught with deadly traps and hordes of enemies. The gameplay is a hectic blend of hack-and-slash action and strategy, with power-ups and treasure to collect. Gauntlet stands as a monument to co-op gaming, encouraging team strategy to tackle its relentless waves of enemies.
In this debut of the iconic blue bomber, players control Mega Man on his journey to stop Dr. Wily's plans for world domination. The gameplay is a tight, side-scrolling platformer with a unique power-absorbing mechanic. Mega Man's impact cannot be overstated, setting up a firm foundation for a franchise that stands tall in the annals of gaming history.
Bringing Major League Baseball to the NES, R.B.I. Baseball grants players control over real teams and their rosters. The gameplay is a simplified take on baseball, focusing on the pure abilities of the virtual athletes, making every pitch and hit feel intense. R.B.I Baseball hit a home run, setting a precedent for realistic sports games and proving that sports and video games are a match made in heaven.
As the hero, Thomas, you battle through five levels of a dojo to rescue your beloved, Sylvia, from the grips of a ruthless crime boss. The gameplay is a side-scrolling beat 'em up, with kicks and punches being your weapons against the boss' minions. Kung Fu was one of the early pioneers of the beat 'em up genre, and its legacy continues to pack a punch to this day.
As the iconic foursome, players navigate the sewers and streets of New York to thwart Shredder's evil plans. Combining a mix of side-scrolling action with exploration and puzzle-solving, TMNT demanded quick reflexes and strategic use of each turtle's abilities. Its radical depiction of beloved characters and punishing gameplay solidified it as a love-hate gem of the NES era.
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