Imagining Popular Modern Games as If They Were Released in the '90s

June 18, 2025 - 19:32

The gaming landscape of the '90s was defined by 16-bit graphics, pixel art, and the rise of 3D gaming. If popular modern games were released during this vibrant era, they would undoubtedly reflect the technological limitations and cultural trends of the time.

For instance, a game like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" would feature a more linear gameplay style, with 2D graphics and simpler mechanics. The expansive open world would be replaced with smaller, segmented levels, and the storytelling would likely rely on text boxes rather than cinematic cutscenes.

Similarly, titles like "Fortnite" would have a different aesthetic, resembling classic arcade shooters with pixelated characters and chiptune soundtracks. Multiplayer features would be limited to split-screen gameplay, emphasizing local co-op rather than online connectivity.

In this reimagined '90s version, the emphasis on narrative depth and character development would be replaced by straightforward gameplay and high scores, capturing the essence of that nostalgic gaming era.