When you play a really good retro game for the first time, there’s an undeniable magic to the sense of whimsical discovery. For many gamers, it’s a feeling we’re forever chasing, and one that we would give anything to replicate. While it’s impossible to experience the classics again, there’s one way that we can come close: playing ROM hacks. ROM hacks are modified versions of retro games that change the game in a meaningful way, whether by altering gameplay, changing the graphics, or sometimes creating entirely new games out of old ones. However, like a lot of user-created content, the world of ROM hacks is overflowing with choices and it can be hard to figure out where to start. Whether you’re new to ROM hacks or are simply looking for a list of some of the best, these are a handful of retro gaming ROM hacks that you absolutely have to play.
Note: To legally enjoy these ROM hacks, you must obtain your ROM file from a physical copy of your desired retro game using game dumping software. We do not condone the use of piracy or any illicit means of ROM acquisition.
Banjo-Kazooie: Nostalgia 64
Created by Kurko Mods, a true master of Banjo-Kazooie mods, Banjo-Kazooie: Nostalgia 64 is a perfect representation of what makes ROM hacks fun. In this version of Banjo-Kazooie, our bear and bird duo are not exploring Grunty’s Castle, but instead, the inside of a Nintendo 64 itself! To progress through the game, you must travel through worlds that are based on other N64 classics, offering a collect-a-thon through the console’s greatest hits. You’ll talon trot through GoldenEye 007, frolick through Mario 64‘s Bob-omb Battlefield, go on a photo safari in Pokemon Snap, and much more. Not only does BK: Nostalgia 64 offer cool throwback levels, but it also integrates elements of the original games in smart ways, making for an extremely fun and often challenging 3D platformer.
The Legend of Zelda: The Missing Link
Speaking of Nintendo 64, there are few games that are as revered as Ocarina of Time, and though Majora’s Mask offered an entertaining albeit quirky sequel, I always felt like the N64 deserved one more Zelda title. That’s exactly what The Legend of Zelda: The Missing Link sets out to do, by giving us an all-new adventure in the Zelda universe, set between the events of Ocarina and Majora. Borrowing elements from both of those classic games, The Missing Link tells an all-new story, features new items, and a full dungeon to explore. Though it’ll only take you a couple of hours to finish, The Missing Link is a treat for N64 Zelda fans, and one of the best ROM hacks of its kind.
Pokemon: Unbound
There are so many Pokemon games that it’s almost impossible to list them all, but for retro gamers, there are few as memorable as the Game Boy and Game Boy Advance series. Pokemon: Unbound does its best to merge the worlds of retro Pokemon and modern Pokemon, providing a wholly original game built around the bones of Pokemon: FireRed. With a Pokedex that contains Pokemon up to generation seven, tons of missions, and some significant post-game content, Pokemon: Unbound has a lot of content. Often, this feels less like a ROM hack and more like a brand new game for the GBA, fusing some of the best aspects of the series’ history into one unbelievably fun retro title.
A Plumber For All Seasons
In the ROM hack scene, Super Mario World is easily one of the most active communities, with new levels being created almost daily. Though many of these custom Super Mario World games are often very challenging, some are still enjoyable for players of all skill levels. Of these more casual ROM hacks, A Plumber For All Seasons stands out, thanks to its gorgeous pixel art and refreshing level design. Each world is based on a different season, and with 37 levels, there’s enough variety regardless of whether it’s Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter. While other Super Mario World ROM hacks like to chew up the player and spit them out, A Plumber For All Seasons offers a picturesque stroll through the seasons with just the right level of difficulty.
TMNT: Shredder’s Re-Revenge
Back in the 16-bit era, beat ’em up games were all the rage, and after playing one for just a few minutes, it’s easy to see why. In this brilliant genre, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Streets of Rage were two of the best franchises, both of which have seen modern reboots in the past few years. However, TMNT: Shredder’s Re-Revenge does something different: it takes the base Streets of Rage 2 game, but updates all of the characters, enemies, and bosses, all reminiscent of the new TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge game. When combined like this, you get a Streets of Rage 2 experience that’s familiar, but with the smooth movement and excellent animation of the modern TMNT titles. It’s a cross-over that’s super fun to play, and if you’ve already played Streets of Rage 2 to death, this is one of the best ways to keep it fresh.
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