Nintendo has been a key player in the gaming world for more than 40 years. Their consoles and handhelds have delivered some of the most memorable games ever created. To celebrate this legacy, Nintendo Life collaborated with IGN to rank the 100 best Nintendo games of all time.
This new list isn’t just based on personal opinions. It combines insights from expert fans like Logan Plant, Simon Cardy, and Rebekah Valentine, ensuring a more rounded perspective. Unlike previous lists that focused on first-party titles, this one includes beloved third-party games like Final Fantasy and GTA, highlighting the broad appeal of Nintendo consoles.
Some noteworthy titles deserve a mention:
Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem (GCN): Released in 2002, this horror game broke boundaries with its unique storytelling and mechanics, such as the frightful “sanity meter.” It remains a cult classic, influencing later horror titles.
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars (DS): This installment brought the chaotic world of GTA to the handheld, offering innovative gameplay mechanics that adapted to its platform without losing the essence of the series.
Star Fox (SNES): This game showed off the potential of 3D graphics at the time, creating a unique behind-the-ship view that was innovative for its day.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses (Switch): A fundamental shift in the series, this game emphasized character development and relationships alongside strategic gameplay, making it a fan favorite.
Recent statistics suggest that around 61% of gamers still play classic Nintendo titles, indicating their lasting impact. Social media is buzzing too, with Twitter trending discussions on “Nintendo nostalgia” gaining traction as fans reminisce about their childhood gaming experiences.
In addition to nostalgia, expert opinions illustrate how Nintendo has influenced game design and mechanics across genres. For example, a study from the Entertainment Software Association notes that games like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time significantly contributed to the evolution of adventure and action games.
While the landscape of gaming has changed, Nintendo’s creativity and commitment to fun remain relevant. Its blend of captivating stories, innovative gameplay, and beloved characters ensures that classic and new games will always find a place in players’ hearts.
With the modern resurgence of retro gaming, it’s clear that Nintendo’s influence is far-reaching and enduring, reminding us why these games are celebrated today.
Explore more about Nintendo’s rich gaming history and see what other titles made the list in the full collaboration with IGN.
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Features, Guides, Best Games, Nintendo, All Time

