Behold, we have for you today a compilation of best DOS games which is sure to take you down memory lane. The 90s were a volatile decade in more ways than one, but those who’ve lived through those years will never stop short of speaking about the wonderful memories they hold dear from those years. Recounted among those reminisces most of the time are video games that occupied the new and lavish PCs which had become an integral part of people’s living rooms. These titles chewed up hours and hours of our time, despite their very basic nature as compared to today’s offerings. As a salute to all those legendary games, we’ve concocted this list so those who’re willing to relive lost experiences don’t have to worry about which games to choose from. Remember, you can play them by downloading any of the emulators which are available online for free.
1 – Mortal Kombat
One of the most controversial games of its time, Mortal Kombat was the first title to receive an ESRB rating owing to its depiction of graphical violence. The fighting game laid the foundation for a number of other incredible titles from the said genre, with its diverse gameplay and most importantly, its ghastly finishing moves called Fatalities. The popularity of this Arcade-based title even led to the launch of an eponymous movie in 1995.
2 – Grand Theft Auto
Ain’t no one here who wouldn’t love themselves some good old GTA. Released in 1997 by ace developers Rockstar North (then DMA Design), this game is based on the same concept of stepping into the shoes of a criminal who can roam freely around a big city, performing acts of violence and what not. Bank robberies, assassinations, and other crimes can all be performed in this action-adventure game which laid the foundation for some of the greatest games of all time.
3 – Prince of Persia
Initially developed by video game veteran Jordan Mechner, the first ever Prince of Persia managed to spawn a massive franchise which is alive even till today. The title is known for its fluid animations, its cinematic visuals and most importantly, its incredibly challenging yet satisfying puzzle-platformer gameplay. You play the prince who must make his way out of palace dungeons in order to rescue the princess who has been locked up in a tower.
4 – UFO: Enemy Unknown
A near perfect blend of science fiction and strategy, UFO: Enemy Unknown asks you to assume the role of a commander in a secret international paramilitary organization which is tasked with defending the Earth from an alien invasion. In involves real-time management simulation as well as turn-based tactics. Last year’s hit offering, XCOM: Enemy Unknown was a remake of this classic title.
5 – Tomb Raider
In 1996, one of the most well known video game characters of all time, Lara Croft made her debut with this superb offering that eventually served as a major influence for a large number of 3D action-adventure offerings afterwards. Inviting puzzles, challenging platforming and superb gunplay all contribute towards making Tomb Raider a wonderful experience to soak in.
6 – SimCity 2000
SimCity 2000 had every ingredient needed for it to appeal to strategy fans. It throws at you the ability to build your own city from scratch, and that itself proves to be one of its main selling points. Equipped with memorable music, beautiful pixel art graphics and realistic simulation elements, SimCity 2000 is a classic by every sense of the term.
7 – Doom and Doom II: Hell on Earth
Counted among the greatest games of all time, Doom features sci-fi horror mixed with first-person shooter gameplay. It lets you play as a space marine who must fight off invading demons from hell. Its equally successful sequel dubbed Doom II: Hell on Earth didn’t introduce many technical changes, but only expanded upon the fantastic experience provided by its predecessor.
8 – Ultima VII: The Black Gate
If you’re all for role-playing games, Ultima VII: The Black Gate is one of the finest of all time. Played with an isometric viewpoint, it presents you with an unbelievably engrossing world filled to the brim with role-playing brilliances.
9 – Another World
Also known as Out of This World, this next entry of our list is a cinematic platformer responsible for acting as an inspiration for a number of renowned developers and their games. Its simple and cinematic visuals work in its favor, and so does its peculiar story.
10 – The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall
Bethesda’s The Elder Scrolls series was as popular in the 90s as it is today. Its second iteration which was released in 1996 took gamers by storm with its lavish role-playing offerings. And just like other titles from the series, its overall atmosphere is an unforgettable one.
11 – Wolfenstein 3D
Created by the makers of Doom, Wolfenstein 3D allows you to play as a World War II Allied spy named William ‘B.J.’ Blazkowicz who’s attempting to free himself from the Nazi German prison of Castle Wolfenstein. Apart from MS-DOS, the game is also available for a number of other platforms, including modern ones.
12 – Carmageddon
This graphically violent vehicular combat title generated quite a controversy when it was first released back in 1997. This resulted in censored releases in certain regions which eventually generated the same amount of popularity that the uncensored version did. It involves you in dangerous car races taking place across a number of different settings.
Conclusion:
So there you have it – a list of 12 best DOS games that should keep you busy with their nostalgic brilliance. All you need in order to play them are their game files which are available easily and a suitable emulator. And some of these offerings are available for modern platforms as well.