These Were the Best Video Games of 1990

May 17, 2026 - 10:59

The year 1990 was a landmark time for video games. While the world watched Nelson Mandela walk free and NASA send the Hubble telescope into orbit, living rooms were filled with the glow of CRT televisions and the sound of 16-bit chiptunes. McDonald's may have stopped using beef tallow for its fries, but gamers were feasting on a new generation of interactive entertainment.

This was the year the Super Nintendo Entertainment System launched in Japan, setting the stage for a console war that would define the decade. But the games themselves were what truly shined. Titles like "Super Mario World" redefined platforming with its tight controls and hidden exits, while "The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past" set the gold standard for action-adventure games with its sprawling overworld and clever dungeons.

On the Sega Genesis, "Streets of Rage" brought arcade-style brawling home with a thumping soundtrack, and "Phantasy Star IV" delivered a deep, story-driven RPG experience. PC gamers were not left out, as "Commander Keen" proved that shareware could be a viable model for quality games, and "Wing Commander" pushed the boundaries of space combat simulation.

Even handheld gaming got a boost with the release of "Dr. Mario" for the Game Boy, proving that puzzle games could be just as addictive on the go. 1990 was a year of transition, where 8-bit classics gave way to 16-bit wonders, and the foundation for modern gaming was firmly laid.