The 80s were a golden age for video games, with many classic titles and iconic franchises being born during this time. But among the well-known and well-loved games of the era, there are also many lesser-known gems that are just as deserving of attention. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of these hidden gems and why they rule.
One such game is “H.E.R.O.” for the Atari 2600. Released in 1984, this game puts you in the role of a rescue worker who must navigate a series of underground caves to save trapped miners. The game’s graphics may be simple, but its gameplay is engaging and addictive. The use of a helicopter backpack to fly through the levels adds a unique twist to the traditional platformer genre.
Another overlooked gem is “Spelunker” for the NES. This game, released in 1986, puts you in the role of an adventurer exploring a series of underground caves in search of treasure. The game is known for its challenging difficulty and precise controls, which require careful planning and quick reflexes. Despite its unforgiving nature, “Spelunker” remains a cult classic among fans of the genre.
One game that may be familiar to some but is still not as well-known as it should be is “Gauntlet” for the arcade. Released in 1985, this game is a cooperative dungeon crawler in which up to four players team up to fight their way through hordes of monsters and collect treasure. The game’s simple yet satisfying gameplay and addictive multiplayer experience make it a must-play for any fan of arcade games.
“Rescue on Fractalus!” for the Atari 2600 may be well-known for some. Released in 1984, this game puts you in the role of a space pilot who must navigate a treacherous alien planet to rescue stranded pilots. The game’s use of 3D graphics for its landscapes was groundbreaking for the time, and the immersive gameplay still holds up today.
These are just a few examples of the many little-known video games from the 80s that are worth checking out. While these games may not have the same level of recognition as some of the era’s more popular titles, they are no less deserving of our attention and appreciation. So next time you’re feeling nostalgic for the golden age of gaming, why not give one of these hidden gems a try and discover why they rule.
