Blast from ’96: The Games Everyone Was Obsessed With

Ah, 1996—it was a year when neon windbreakers were in style, and the “Macarena” took over dance floors. But let’s not forget the standout stars of that era: the games that occupied countless hours and inspired friendly (and sometimes not-so-friendly) competitions. Dive into this nostalgic trip down memory lane and discover the most popular games that ruled 1996.

1. Super Mario 64

firstly, Super Mario 64 brought a model shift in the gaming world. Released for the Nintendo 64, this game was one of the first to offer a fully 3D world, allowing players to check out Princess Peach’s castle and various other realms. The excitement of collecting Power Stars and outmaneuvering Bowser grabbed the attention of gamers everywhere. Mario’s leap into 3D wasn’t just a step forward—it was a revolutionary leap.

2. Pokémon Red and Blue

In addition, few games have ignited as much cultural phenomena as the release of Pokémon Red and Blue on Game Boy. These games launched an international craze that had kids and adults alike hunting for Pikachu, battling gym leaders, and trading Pokémon with friends. The tagline “Gotta Catch ‘Em All!” became a household phrase and kicked off a franchise that’s still popular today.

3. Tomb Raider

also, Tomb Raider, featuring the iconic adventurer Lara Croft, was a trailblazer in action-adventure gaming. With its intricate puzzles, extensive exploration, and action-packed sequences, it offered players a gripping solo experience. Lara’s character quickly became emblematic of female empowerment in gaming culture, something relatively new for that time.

4. Resident Evil

Additionally, Resident Evil practically defined the survival horror genre when it was released for the PlayStation. The game’s eerie mansion setting, combined with its haunting storyline and formidable zombies, captivated players and kept them on the edge of their seats. It was a masterclass in atmosphere and suspense, paving the way for endless sequels and spin-offs.

5. Diablo

Finally, Diablo delivered a dark, addictive dungeon-crawling experience on PC. Its randomly generated dungeons, coupled with the loot system, ensured that no two playthroughs were exactly the same. The multiplayer feature allowed gamers to team up and tackle the forces of evil together, setting the groundwork for future role-playing games. Diablo’s blend of strategy and action was nothing short of spellbinding.

The games of 1996 weren’t just entertainment—they were milestones in gaming history. They transported players into different worlds, introduced revolutionary gameplay mechanics, and left a lasting impact on the industry. Whether you were saving Princess Peach, capturing elusive Pokémon, raiding ancient tombs, surviving zom​​bie-infested mansions, or battling demonic forces, 1996 was a year of unforgettable adventures.