10 Sega Genesis Games That Are Still Worth Playing
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VOICE OVER: Geoffrey Martin
WRITTEN BY: Geoffrey Martin
As one of Sega's most cherished consoles, there are still a lot of Genesis games worth playing. For this list, we'll be looking at some top-notch Genesis games that hold up well today and are a real treat to play and experience, all these years later. Our list of Sega Genesis games that are still worth playing includes “Gunstar Heroes” (1993), “Castlevania: Bloodlines” (1994), “Aladdin” (1993), “Comix Zone” (1995), and more!
Script written by Geoffrey Martin
Welcome to MojoPlays, and today we’re counting down our picks for 10 Sega Genesis games that are still worth playing today. For this list, we’ll be looking at some top-notch Genesis games that hold up well today and are a real treat to play and experience, all these years later. Since Sega Genesis does what Ninten-don’t, be sure to let us know down in the comments section which game you think is still worth playing today.
If you blend the speed of the 2D Sonic games, the fun platforming of the Super Mario games, and the zany cartoon world of Tiny Toon Adventures, then you end up with Buster’s Hidden Treasure. This fast-paced platformer is frantic and fun in equal measures, and features some of the best sprite and animation work of any game on the Genesis. In this madcap adventure, you play as the blue bunny himself, Buster. He must stop the dastardly deeds of Montana Max and his minions all while trying to rescue Babs and reclaim the titular hidden treasure. With plenty of collectibles, lots of secret paths, and tons of gameplay variety, this gem of a game is well worth a play today. Just beware that the iconic music will get stuck in your head for days.
Yes, I know what you are thinking. How could you be so daft as to include a McDonald’s game on this list? Well, as the saying goes: “you shouldn’t knock it until you try it” or something along those lines. I’m here to tell you that McDonald’s Treaureland Adventure is a superb platforming game, one with tight controls, a quirky grapple arm/hand hook mechanic, utterly creative levels, unique boss fights, a plethora of collectibles, and some of the very best music in all of video gaming…period. This delightful game was actually developed by Treasure which means it’s both crafted with love and care but it’s also downright bananas. Ronald McDonald must recover the pieces of a treasure map, something that takes him across a crazy range of stages while meeting some interesting characters along the way. Don’t let the McDonald’s license fool you, Treasureland Adventure is a real treat on the Genesis.
They sure don’t make them like they used to. Even to this day, Aladdin feels and plays just like the actual Disney cartoon. It’s that darn good! Aladdin for Sega Genesis essentially re-tells the movie story, something that leads to some delightfully fun stages to platform around in. Variety is truly king in this game as Aladdin can jump, climb, swing, throw apples, attack with his sword, and even fly on the magic carpet. Each stage ups the ante when it comes to gameplay challenge and there are even some bonus stages that let you play as Abu. Yes, it’s a short game; however, the amount of pure gameplay goodness packed into this licensed game makes it one that is just as playable today as it was back in the good ol’ 90s.
Wonky text translation aside… yes I’m looking at you “Do Baseball!” and “It’s like Boo!” posters, you simply can’t deny just how much fun it is to actually play Streets or Rage 2, especially with a buddy along for the ride. While the beat ‘em up brawler genre is certainly making a resurgence with the likes of Streets of Rage 4, Toxic Crusaders, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, it’s Streets of Rage 2 from 1992 that is an absolute blast to play even when booting up your Genesis today. It’s polished, weighty, punchy, creative, and just downright fun. The 90s was brimming with games like this one but Streets of Rage 2 showcased why it was the pinnacle of the genre, especially with its brooding cast of characters and unique set of stages and baddies.
The Sega Genesis was known for its hyper-vibrant games, at least when it came to platformers, with this point being heavily proved in Ristar. The sheer charm and creativeness on display in Ristar makes it stand out from the pack, and could even pass as a brand new indie game today. In Ristar, you, of course, play as Ristar…big surprise there. Ristar uses his extendable arms to grasp and grapple enemies, platforms, and poles alike in order to survive each stage. While it does take a bit to wrestle with the controls and abilities Ristar has at his disposal, there’s simply no denying that this game upends the platforming genre with new and unique ways to navigate each otherworldly stage. And, that’s not even mentioning the exciting and challenging boss fights at the end of each colorful world.
Another Treasure-developed game makes its way onto this list in the form of Gunstar Heroes. Often revered as one of the best Sega Genesis games of all time, this one is the epitome of pure freneticism. Playing like a supercharged and cartoony version of something like Contra, Gunstar Heroes more often than not feels like a shoot ‘em up more than a 2D action platformer. What makes this gem of a game so darn good is just how fluid and polished the whole experience is, even when there are dozens of baddies on screen, tons of projectiles coming your way, and the background is moving behind you. Swapping out and combining different weapon abilities quickly shakes up your moment-to-moment attacks, something you will have to do often in order to contend with the challenge level this game throws your way.
While any of the other Mickey-themed games could have been slotted into this entry, including Castle of Illusion, Mickey Mania, or The Great Circus Mystery; it’s World of Illusion that truly takes the cake here. The standout gameplay feature this time around comes in the form of tandem/co-op gameplay featuring both Mickey and Donald. When playing solo, players must use both characters to navigate the whimsical and imaginative stages and its many puzzles, with the game occasionally sending Mickey and Donald out on their own depending on the scenario. However, the game can also be played locally in 2-player co-op with each player taking control of either Mickey or Donald. Thinking about it just now, it’s kinda like the precursor to It Takes Two, but with a cartoony, Disney flair.
If you were to show Comix Zone to someone today, someone who isn’t at all familiar with the Sega Genesis game from 1995, they would likely say “Hey, what an awesome and creative-looking indie game from Devolver Digital.” It’s hard to deny just how fresh Comix Zone truly is, even almost 30 years after its initial release. Taking place across stages broken up by literal comic panels, protagonist Sketch Turner gets sucked into his comics and he now needs to find a way out, back to his home in New York City. Seeing Sketch hop between panels of the comic never gets old. Between these moments, you get to take part in some top-notch beat ‘em up brawler combat scenarios, light environmental puzzles, and fourth wall breaking moments where the comics themselves start to burn, tear, or fall apart in front of you.
Step into the vampire hunting boots of John Morris and Eric Lecarde as you traverse your way through the dark, haunted, and deeply moody early 20th-century European lands in search of Count Dracula, since, well, he is being resurrected by Elizabeth Bartley. This Genesis exclusive Castlevania game was crafted with so much care and passion since it was built from the ground up for the console. You can dive into the spooky and harrowing adventure with either character. John uses his all-powerful whip whereas Eric utilizes a deadly spear. Each stage is broken up into distinct areas with a mix of sub-bosses and uber-challenging main bosses. The chunky visulas of Bloodlines really stand out from any other 2D Castlevania game, and boy oh boy, that music from composer Michiru Yamane is downright stunning. If you can manage to find and afford a copy of this gem then you are in for a real treat.
Yes, Sonic 3 is a likely contender for the best Sonic game to play today on your Sega Genesis, however, it’s Sonic’s second outing that really proved why he was the king of speed. Well, that and chili dogs, of course. Sonic 2 took everything that made the OG Sonic so darn fun and memorable, namely, the blazing speeds, intricately crafted levels, and fun powerups, and dialed everything up multiple notches, especially with the new spin dash; a real game-changer for the mascot platformer. Plus, Sonic 2 has some of the most beloved stages in the franchise from the likes of Emerald Hill Zone, Chemical Plant Zone, Casino Night Zone, and my personal favorite, Mystic Cave Zone. Plus, you can’t deny that having Tails along for the ride truly added to the game’s charm and fun. Revisiting this title today is just as thrilling as it was way back in 1992 with precise gameplay, stellar music, and incredible replayability.
Welcome to MojoPlays, and today we’re counting down our picks for 10 Sega Genesis games that are still worth playing today. For this list, we’ll be looking at some top-notch Genesis games that hold up well today and are a real treat to play and experience, all these years later. Since Sega Genesis does what Ninten-don’t, be sure to let us know down in the comments section which game you think is still worth playing today.
“Tiny Toon Adventures: Buster’s Hidden Treasure” (1993)
If you blend the speed of the 2D Sonic games, the fun platforming of the Super Mario games, and the zany cartoon world of Tiny Toon Adventures, then you end up with Buster’s Hidden Treasure. This fast-paced platformer is frantic and fun in equal measures, and features some of the best sprite and animation work of any game on the Genesis. In this madcap adventure, you play as the blue bunny himself, Buster. He must stop the dastardly deeds of Montana Max and his minions all while trying to rescue Babs and reclaim the titular hidden treasure. With plenty of collectibles, lots of secret paths, and tons of gameplay variety, this gem of a game is well worth a play today. Just beware that the iconic music will get stuck in your head for days.
“McDonald’s Treasureland Adventure” (1993)
Yes, I know what you are thinking. How could you be so daft as to include a McDonald’s game on this list? Well, as the saying goes: “you shouldn’t knock it until you try it” or something along those lines. I’m here to tell you that McDonald’s Treaureland Adventure is a superb platforming game, one with tight controls, a quirky grapple arm/hand hook mechanic, utterly creative levels, unique boss fights, a plethora of collectibles, and some of the very best music in all of video gaming…period. This delightful game was actually developed by Treasure which means it’s both crafted with love and care but it’s also downright bananas. Ronald McDonald must recover the pieces of a treasure map, something that takes him across a crazy range of stages while meeting some interesting characters along the way. Don’t let the McDonald’s license fool you, Treasureland Adventure is a real treat on the Genesis.
“Aladdin” (1993)
They sure don’t make them like they used to. Even to this day, Aladdin feels and plays just like the actual Disney cartoon. It’s that darn good! Aladdin for Sega Genesis essentially re-tells the movie story, something that leads to some delightfully fun stages to platform around in. Variety is truly king in this game as Aladdin can jump, climb, swing, throw apples, attack with his sword, and even fly on the magic carpet. Each stage ups the ante when it comes to gameplay challenge and there are even some bonus stages that let you play as Abu. Yes, it’s a short game; however, the amount of pure gameplay goodness packed into this licensed game makes it one that is just as playable today as it was back in the good ol’ 90s.
“Streets of Rage 2” (1992)
Wonky text translation aside… yes I’m looking at you “Do Baseball!” and “It’s like Boo!” posters, you simply can’t deny just how much fun it is to actually play Streets or Rage 2, especially with a buddy along for the ride. While the beat ‘em up brawler genre is certainly making a resurgence with the likes of Streets of Rage 4, Toxic Crusaders, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, it’s Streets of Rage 2 from 1992 that is an absolute blast to play even when booting up your Genesis today. It’s polished, weighty, punchy, creative, and just downright fun. The 90s was brimming with games like this one but Streets of Rage 2 showcased why it was the pinnacle of the genre, especially with its brooding cast of characters and unique set of stages and baddies.
“Ristar” (1995)
The Sega Genesis was known for its hyper-vibrant games, at least when it came to platformers, with this point being heavily proved in Ristar. The sheer charm and creativeness on display in Ristar makes it stand out from the pack, and could even pass as a brand new indie game today. In Ristar, you, of course, play as Ristar…big surprise there. Ristar uses his extendable arms to grasp and grapple enemies, platforms, and poles alike in order to survive each stage. While it does take a bit to wrestle with the controls and abilities Ristar has at his disposal, there’s simply no denying that this game upends the platforming genre with new and unique ways to navigate each otherworldly stage. And, that’s not even mentioning the exciting and challenging boss fights at the end of each colorful world.
“Gunstar Heroes” (1993)
Another Treasure-developed game makes its way onto this list in the form of Gunstar Heroes. Often revered as one of the best Sega Genesis games of all time, this one is the epitome of pure freneticism. Playing like a supercharged and cartoony version of something like Contra, Gunstar Heroes more often than not feels like a shoot ‘em up more than a 2D action platformer. What makes this gem of a game so darn good is just how fluid and polished the whole experience is, even when there are dozens of baddies on screen, tons of projectiles coming your way, and the background is moving behind you. Swapping out and combining different weapon abilities quickly shakes up your moment-to-moment attacks, something you will have to do often in order to contend with the challenge level this game throws your way.
“World of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck” (1992)
While any of the other Mickey-themed games could have been slotted into this entry, including Castle of Illusion, Mickey Mania, or The Great Circus Mystery; it’s World of Illusion that truly takes the cake here. The standout gameplay feature this time around comes in the form of tandem/co-op gameplay featuring both Mickey and Donald. When playing solo, players must use both characters to navigate the whimsical and imaginative stages and its many puzzles, with the game occasionally sending Mickey and Donald out on their own depending on the scenario. However, the game can also be played locally in 2-player co-op with each player taking control of either Mickey or Donald. Thinking about it just now, it’s kinda like the precursor to It Takes Two, but with a cartoony, Disney flair.
“Comix Zone” (1995)
If you were to show Comix Zone to someone today, someone who isn’t at all familiar with the Sega Genesis game from 1995, they would likely say “Hey, what an awesome and creative-looking indie game from Devolver Digital.” It’s hard to deny just how fresh Comix Zone truly is, even almost 30 years after its initial release. Taking place across stages broken up by literal comic panels, protagonist Sketch Turner gets sucked into his comics and he now needs to find a way out, back to his home in New York City. Seeing Sketch hop between panels of the comic never gets old. Between these moments, you get to take part in some top-notch beat ‘em up brawler combat scenarios, light environmental puzzles, and fourth wall breaking moments where the comics themselves start to burn, tear, or fall apart in front of you.
“Castlevania: Bloodlines” (1994)
Step into the vampire hunting boots of John Morris and Eric Lecarde as you traverse your way through the dark, haunted, and deeply moody early 20th-century European lands in search of Count Dracula, since, well, he is being resurrected by Elizabeth Bartley. This Genesis exclusive Castlevania game was crafted with so much care and passion since it was built from the ground up for the console. You can dive into the spooky and harrowing adventure with either character. John uses his all-powerful whip whereas Eric utilizes a deadly spear. Each stage is broken up into distinct areas with a mix of sub-bosses and uber-challenging main bosses. The chunky visulas of Bloodlines really stand out from any other 2D Castlevania game, and boy oh boy, that music from composer Michiru Yamane is downright stunning. If you can manage to find and afford a copy of this gem then you are in for a real treat.
“Sonic the Hedgehog 2” (1992)
Yes, Sonic 3 is a likely contender for the best Sonic game to play today on your Sega Genesis, however, it’s Sonic’s second outing that really proved why he was the king of speed. Well, that and chili dogs, of course. Sonic 2 took everything that made the OG Sonic so darn fun and memorable, namely, the blazing speeds, intricately crafted levels, and fun powerups, and dialed everything up multiple notches, especially with the new spin dash; a real game-changer for the mascot platformer. Plus, Sonic 2 has some of the most beloved stages in the franchise from the likes of Emerald Hill Zone, Chemical Plant Zone, Casino Night Zone, and my personal favorite, Mystic Cave Zone. Plus, you can’t deny that having Tails along for the ride truly added to the game’s charm and fun. Revisiting this title today is just as thrilling as it was way back in 1992 with precise gameplay, stellar music, and incredible replayability.
