Data East Corporation, a powerhouse in the video game industry during the 1980s and 1990s, left an indelible mark with a range of iconic games. From action-packed arcades to innovative puzzle games, Data East’s catalog boasts titles that have shaped the gaming landscape. Here are the ten best Data East video games of all time, each a testament to the company’s creative genius.

1. BurgerTime (1982)

A culinary classic, BurgerTime has players stepping into the shoes of chef Peter Pepper. The goal? Assemble massive burgers while evading pesky food foes. Its unique gameplay and charming graphics made it a hit in arcades and home consoles alike.

2. Karate Champ (1984)

Karate Champ is a pioneer in the fighting game genre. With its innovative dual-joystick control scheme and competitive two-player mode, this game set the stage for future fighting games, blending skill and strategy in martial arts combat.

3. Bad Dudes Vs. DragonNinja (1988)

“Are you a bad enough dude to rescue the president?” This iconic question sums up Bad Dudes Vs. DragonNinja, an adrenaline-fueled beat ’em up where players battle ninjas across America to save the president. Its co-op gameplay and memorable one-liners cemented its place in arcade history.

4. Caveman Ninja (Joe & Mac) (1991)

Joe & Mac takes players on a prehistoric adventure with two cavemen battling dinosaurs and rival tribes. Its colorful graphics, cooperative gameplay, and quirky humor made it a standout platformer of the early ’90s.

5. Heavy Barrel (1987)

A top-down run-and-gun shooter, Heavy Barrel offers intense action as players fight through waves of enemies to assemble the powerful Heavy Barrel weapon. Its cooperative play and strategic weapon usage keep players coming back for more.

6. Shadowrun (1994)

Based on the popular tabletop RPG, Data East’s Shadowrun for the Sega Genesis combined cyberpunk aesthetics with deep role-playing mechanics. Its engaging story and unique setting have earned it a cult following among RPG fans.

7. Magical Drop III (1997)

Magical Drop III is a fast-paced puzzle game that captivated players with its colorful characters and addictive gameplay. Matching colored balls under time pressure provides a satisfying challenge, making it a beloved title in the puzzle genre.

8. Robocop (1988)

Based on the blockbuster movie, Robocop brings the futuristic law enforcer to arcades with action-packed gameplay. Faithfully recreating scenes from the film, this game is a must-play for fans of the franchise and classic arcade action.

9. Windjammers (1994)

A unique blend of sports and fighting game elements, Windjammers pits players against each other in a fast-paced disc-throwing competition. Its vibrant graphics, smooth controls, and competitive gameplay have made it a favorite among arcade enthusiasts.

10. Night Slashers (1993)

Night Slashers combines horror and beat ’em up action, featuring heroes battling hordes of zombies, werewolves, and other supernatural foes. Its gory visuals and engaging co-op gameplay make it a hidden gem in Data East’s catalog.

Data East’s legacy is defined by its diverse and innovative game library. From the frantic burger-building of BurgerTime to the cyberpunk intrigue of Shadowrun, these titles showcase the creativity and influence of Data East in the gaming world. Whether you’re revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, these ten games represent the best of what Data East had to offer.