The 1990s marked a pivotal era in gaming history, with numerous groundbreaking titles captivating audiences worldwide. Let’s delve into the top ten-selling games of the decade, each leaving an indelible mark on gaming culture.
Tetris
Sales Figures: Over 35 million copies sold
Available on Various platforms, including NES, Game Boy, and PC
A-Type game screenshot of the official NES version of Tetris
Tetris, with its simple yet addictive gameplay, became a global phenomenon, transcending generations and platforms.
Pokémon Red, Green, and Yellow
Sales Figures: Over 31 million copies sold
Available on: Game Boy
The player’s Bulbasaur engaged in battle with a Charmander
Pokémon revolutionized handheld gaming with its collectible monsters and engaging gameplay, captivating players of all ages.
Super Mario Bros. 3
Sales Figures: Over 17 million copies sold
Available on: Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
Super Mario Bros. 3 is credited for introducing overworld maps in the Mario series.
Super Mario Bros. 3 introduced innovative power-ups and vibrant levels, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
Super Mario World
Sales Figures: Over 20 million copies sold
Available on: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
Luigi riding Yoshi during one of the game’s early stages in the GBA re-release Super Mario World: Super Mario Advance 2.
Super Mario World transported players to Dinosaur Land, offering expansive levels and introducing Yoshi to the series.
Final Fantasy VII
Sales Figures: Over 10 million copies sold
Available on: PlayStation
The cutscene of Sephiroth killing Aerith Gainsborough. This key story sequence has been called one of the most “shocking,” “cinematic,” and “genre-defining” moments in video games.
Final Fantasy VII redefined RPGs with its epic story, memorable characters, and groundbreaking visuals, setting new standards for the genre.
Gran Turismo
Sales Figures: Over 10.85 million copies sold
Available on: PlayStation
Gameplay from the first Gran Turismo featuring a Mitsubishi FTO GPX on the fictional Trial Mountain Circuit.
Gran Turismo revolutionized racing games with its realistic physics and extensive car lineup, becoming a hallmark title for the PlayStation.
Donkey Kong Country
Sales Figures: Over 9 million copies sold
Available on: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
The player character, Diddy Kong, jumps on a Kremling in a jungle-themed level.
Donkey Kong Country wowed players with its groundbreaking graphics and inventive level design, revitalizing the franchise.
GoldenEye 007
Sales Figures: Over 8 million copies sold
Available on: Nintendo 64
When the player takes damage, red and blue bars are displayed on the game’s HUD, representing Bond’s health and armour levels respectively. Ammunition information is displayed at the bottom right corner.
GoldenEye 007 set the standard for console FPS games with its immersive single-player campaign and groundbreaking multiplayer mode.
Street Fighter II: The World Warrior
Sales Figures: Over 6.3 million copies sold
Available on Various platforms, including arcade, SNES, and Sega Genesis
Guile defeats Ken with his Flash Kick on the arcade version.
Street Fighter II became a cultural phenomenon, revolutionizing the fighting game genre with its diverse roster of characters and competitive gameplay.
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sales Figures: Over 4 million copies sold
Available on: Sega Genesis
The game’s first level: Green Hill Zone.
Sonic the Hedgehog introduced Sega’s iconic mascot and redefined platformers with its fast-paced gameplay and colorful graphics.
As we reflect on these top ten selling games of the 1990s, we’re reminded of the decade’s lasting impact on gaming culture. Each title contributed to a golden era of innovation and creativity, shaping the industry for future generations.
Fantastic Nerdom 