“The 12 Best Video Game Series of the 1980s and '90s, Ranked” — what this page in the network covers. The 1980s and '90s were a golden age for video games, giving rise to franchises that would define the medium for decades. This ranking of the 12 best series from that era highlights the titles that not only sold millions of copies but also shaped gaming culture and technology. From the platforming perfection of Super Mario Bros.
and Sonic the Hedgehog to the epic adventures of The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy, these series set standards for gameplay, storytelling, and innovation. Others like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat revolutionized competitive fighting games, while franchises such as Mega Man and Castlevania became synonymous with challenging, rewarding play. The list also recognizes the enduring influence of series like Metroid and Donkey Kong, which pushed the boundaries of exploration and design. The full version stays on the original page, which this listing opens directly.