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The 1980s were a pivotal decade for Nintendo, as the company rose to prominence with the release of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). This console introduced a new era of gaming, and some of the most iconic action games in history were released during this time. Whether through intense platforming, thrilling combat, or groundbreaking mechanics, these titles established Nintendo as a leader in the gaming world. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the best action Nintendo games from the 1980s.
1. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
No list of Nintendo action games from the 1980s would be complete without Super Mario Bros. Released in 1985, this platformer revolutionized the gaming world. Mario’s quest to save Princess Toadstool from the evil Bowser captured the hearts of millions, thanks to its accessible yet challenging gameplay, innovative level design, and memorable music. The game’s tight controls and vibrant world made it a must-play for anyone with a NES, and it became the best-selling game of its time.
2. The Legend of Zelda (1986)
The original The Legend of Zelda, released in 1986, took a unique approach to the action-adventure genre. It combined elements of action, exploration, and puzzle-solving, setting the stage for an entirely new type of video game experience. Players took control of Link as he ventured through the land of Hyrule to rescue Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Ganon. With its top-down perspective, expansive world, and the introduction of the now-famous Triforce, Zelda became a foundational title for future action-adventure games.
3. Metroid (1986)
Nintendo’s Metroid is another classic that was released in 1986. This sci-fi action-adventure game introduced players to Samus Aran, one of the first strong female protagonists in video games. The game’s non-linear design, atmospheric setting, and thrilling exploration were groundbreaking at the time. Players navigated through a vast, interconnected world, battling alien creatures while upgrading their abilities. Metroid’s mix of action, exploration, and mystery made it one of the NES’s most influential games.
4. Contra (1987)
If there’s one game from the 1980s that epitomizes the term “action-packed,” it’s Contra. Released in 1987, Contra is a run-and-gun game where players fight their way through various levels filled with enemies and bosses. The game’s hallmark is its intense difficulty and cooperative two-player mode, which became a hallmark of its success. The iconic Konami Code, which granted players extra lives, is also a famous piece of gaming history, solidifying Contra’s place as one of the best action games of the era.
5. Kid Icarus (1986)
Kid Icarus, released in 1986, is a unique action-platformer that combines elements of Greek mythology with fast-paced gameplay. Players control Pit, a young angel, as he battles through various stages to rescue the goddess Palutena. The game featured tight controls, tricky platforming, and a series of tough enemies that required precise jumping and shooting. Kid Icarus was a standout title on the NES, offering a fresh mix of action and mythology.
6. Ninja Gaiden (1988)
For players seeking a fast-paced, action-filled experience, Ninja Gaiden was a must-play. Released in 1988, this game put players in the shoes of Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja on a quest to avenge his father’s death. The game combined side-scrolling action with intricate combat, allowing players to execute devastating sword attacks and magical abilities. With its challenging difficulty, memorable cutscenes, and epic battles, Ninja Gaiden set a new standard for action games in the 1980s.
7. Castlevania (1986)
Released in 1986, Castlevania took players into the gothic, monster-infested castle of Count Dracula. As Simon Belmont, players had to navigate through treacherous levels filled with enemies like skeletons, bats, and zombies while wielding a whip as their primary weapon. With its atmospheric presentation, challenging gameplay, and boss fights against iconic creatures like Frankenstein’s monster, Castlevania became a timeless action game that led to a long-running franchise.
8. River City Ransom (1989)
In 1989, River City Ransom blended beat-em-up action with RPG elements, creating a game that was both fun and strategic. Set in the fictional River City, players control two high school students, Alex and Ryan, as they fight their way through the city to rescue a kidnapped girlfriend. The game’s open-world structure, combo-based combat, and ability to upgrade characters made it one of the most innovative action games of its time, influencing future beat-em-ups and RPGs.
9. The Adventure of Link (1987)
While The Adventure of Link, the sequel to The Legend of Zelda, took a different approach by incorporating side-scrolling action, it’s a game that shouldn’t be overlooked. Released in 1987, it combined platforming with RPG elements, including leveling up and spell-casting. Link’s quest to awaken the sleeping princess Zelda required him to battle through dungeons, face enemies, and solve puzzles. Despite its departure from the first game’s top-down perspective, Zelda II: The Adventure of Link is an action game that remains fondly remembered by fans.
10. Punch-Out!! (1987)
Punch-Out!!, released in 1987, brought an exciting sports action experience to the NES. Players controlled Little Mac, a boxer aiming to rise through the ranks and become the world champion. What set Punch-Out!! apart from other sports games was its unique gameplay style, which focused on memorizing enemy patterns, timing, and quick reflexes rather than simply button-mashing. The game’s quirky characters and challenging difficulty made it a standout in the action genre, offering a truly unforgettable experience.
11. DuckTales (1989)
Though based on the popular animated television series, DuckTales (1989) stands out as one of the best action-platformers on the NES. Players took control of Scrooge McDuck as he embarked on an adventure to find treasure across various levels. The game’s fast-paced action, great level design, and use of the iconic pogo-stick attack made it a standout title. With catchy music and fun gameplay, DuckTales became a favorite among fans, with its success leading to sequels and remakes.
Conclusion
The 1980s were a defining decade for action games, especially with Nintendo leading the charge with its NES console. The titles from this era were more than just games; they were groundbreaking experiences that shaped the future of gaming. Whether through platforming, combat, or adventure, these Nintendo classics laid the foundation for what would become some of the most beloved franchises in the industry. From Super Mario Bros. to DuckTales, the action games of the 1980s remain iconic and continue to influence modern gaming.