The 75+ Best '80s Arcade Games, Ranked
Vote on the best arcade games released and popularized in the 1980s.
Step back into the neon glow of the 80s arcade scene, where the clink of quarters and the blips of digital battles defined a gaming golden age. This era introduced us to an iconic cast of characters, from power-pellet chomping heroes to spaceship pilots dueling in the cosmos. The 80s arcade games were not just about high scores; they were cultural touchstones that captivated players and secured their place in digital history.
Among these timeless classics, Pac-Man gobbled its way into our hearts with its maze-running, ghost-dodging gameplay that still echoes in the world of gaming today. Not to be outdone, Galaga invited sharpshooters to defend against waves of alien forces, offering the thrill of the space battle in every pixelated volley.
Our list celebrates these legendary 80s arcade games and more, each offering a unique escape into worlds of imagination and challenge. Get ready to relive the joystick joys and button-mashing victories that defined a decade. Whether you're an old-school gamer or a curious newcomer, these games continue to resonate, reminding us why the 80s still rule the arcade roost.
- Photo:
- Pac-Man/Namco
Pac-Man is arguably one of the most iconic video games of all time, and it all started in the 80s. The game's simple yet addictive gameplay, cute graphics, and catchy music made it an instant hit with gamers around the world.
Agree or disagree?Buy at
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Galaga/Namco
Galaga was another 80s classic that is still remembered fondly by many gamers. It was a space-themed game that required players to shoot down waves of alien invaders while avoiding their fire. What made Galaga so special was the variety of enemies and the patterns they followed, which made each level a unique challenge.
Agree or disagree?Buy at
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Donkey Kong/Nintendo
Donkey Kong was one of the most popular video games of the 80s, and for a good reason. It was a simple game with a straightforward objective: rescue the princess from the clutches of the big bad gorilla. But it was also incredibly addictive, with challenging levels that required precision and skill to navigate.
Agree or disagree?Buy at
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Space Invaders/Taito Corporation
Space Invaders was one of the earliest and most popular arcade games of the 80s. It was a simple game that required players to shoot down waves of invading aliens while avoiding their fire. The game's graphics were basic but effective, and its challenging gameplay kept gamers coming back for more.
Agree or disagree?Buy at
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Frogger/Konami
Frogger was a unique game that required players to guide a frog across a busy road and river. The game was highly strategic as players had to time their moves and avoid obstacles like cars along the way.
Agree or disagree?Buy at
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Ms. Pac-Man/Midway Games
Ms. Pac-Man was a sequel to the original Pac-Man game that proved to be even more popular than its predecessor. Ms. Pac-Man also introduced new mazes and enemy behavior, keeping the game fresh and exciting.
Agree or disagree?Buy at
- Photo:
