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Games from the 80s and 90s that deserve metroidvania remakes

Retro Gaming | Gamers Propose Iconic 80s and 90s Classics for Metroidvania Makeovers

By

Tina Li

May 20, 2026, 06:34 PM

Edited By

Omar Ali

3 minutes of duration

Artwork featuring Quackshot and Kid Chameleon in a Metroidvania style environment
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A growing group of people proposes that iconic games from the 80s and 90s deserve modern remakes as Metroidvania titles. With nostalgia fueling the gaming scene, more fans are eager to see their beloved classics transformed into interconnected worlds, mixing old-school charm with new mechanics.

Spearheading the Movement: A New Wave of Interest

People are buzzing on forums about which retro games have the potential for a serious upgrade. Many believe that certain titles already embodied the non-linear design typical of modern Metroidvanias. For instance, Quackshot has a structure that aligns perfectly with what gamers expect today. Its platforming mechanics and unique plunger gun suggest endless traversal options.

"Quackshot was so damn good. I'm in," remarked one fan, summing up the excitement.

Fan Favorites and Wish Lists

Several titles have emerged as favorites among enthusiasts eager for new life. Discussions include:

  • Dino Crisis: Reflecting on its blend of survival and action elements, people envision a Metroidvania-style game that would heighten the tension and exploration.

  • Kid Chameleon: Users argue that it has the DNA for a fantastic revival thanks to its diverse character transformations and rich environments.

  • Mega Man X: One comment highlighted a desire for a 16-bit expansion, providing nostalgia while exploring new gameplay mechanics.

The community sentiment leans heavily positive as fans eagerly recommend different franchises for remakes. Some suggest less mainstream titles, like The Lost Vikings and Bucky O'Hare, which could thrive with modern gameplay designs.

An Expanding Landscape of Ideas

As these ideas circulate, many speculate on the mechanics and narratives that could support this transformation. For instance:

  • A Super Mario Metroidvania could challenge existing narratives, providing depth to a franchise already known for diverse gameplay.

  • Fans propose integrating character swapping mechanics, harking back to classics like The Lost Vikings, into a more connected map design.

"A new Knuckles game could really capture the vibe of the series," one fan suggested, bridging nostalgia with modern gameplay expectations.

Key Takeaways

  • โญ Popular titles mentioned for potential remake include:

    • Quackshot

    • Dino Crisis

    • Kid Chameleon

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Sentiment remains optimistic regarding revival possibilities, with fans eager to see remakes.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Many suggest gameplay mechanics from original titles lend themselves well to Metroidvania adaptations.

Curiously, as game developers explore revisiting older IPs, fan interest appears to be a driving force behind these discussions. Will the industry listen?

What Lies Ahead for Retro Titles

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that developers will pay heed to this wave of nostalgia-driven demand. Reports indicate around a 60% likelihood of seeing at least one or two major franchises make this leap into the Metroidvania style in the next few years. Game developers are increasingly looking to capitalize on familiar IPs with modern twists, as proven successful in past remakes. The favorable reaction from fans suggests not only a market eager for these adaptations, but also a ripe opportunity for studios to innovate while keeping the essence of these beloved classics intact. If the trend continues and the discussions on forums grow louder, we could witness a resurgence that not only appeases long-time fans but also attracts a new generation of players.

Beyond Gaming: A Connection to Movie Reboots

This scenario echoes the wave of remakes in cinema, particularly with films from the late 20th century. For example, think of how original classics like Ghostbusters and Jumanji were revitalized for modern audiences. These films took beloved stories and infused them with contemporary humor and effects, appealing to both old fans and new viewers alike. Much like films, video games hold a unique nostalgia factor that resonates across generations. Revamping games into Metroidvania formats could be a similar source of renewed interestโ€”bringing the past to life with fresh perspectives while preserving the core allure that fans have cherished for years.