A few iconic names emerge when we think about the best video game franchises from the ’80s and ’90s, each leaving a lasting mark on both culture and the gaming industry. These franchises laid the foundation for the gaming experiences we cherish today. Here’s a look at the top 12 ranked video game series that defined a generation.
Top 12 Ranked Video Game Series
12. Madden
Electronic Arts launched _John Madden Football_ in 1988, starting a franchise built around a partnership with the NFL that drew in fans who weren’t interested in princes or galactic bounty hunters.
11. Mega Man
After a rocky start, Capcom’s _Mega Man_ series hit its stride with _Mega Man 2_ and kept delivering action platforming for years. The blue hero battled robots with unique powers in each installment, and the franchise is still active – _Mega Man: Dual Override_ arrives in 2027.
10. Castlevania
Konami’s _Castlevania_ series has been crucial in shaping the gothic adventure genre, especially with the release of _Symphony of the Night_ in 1997, which inspired the Metroidvania subgenre. The series continues to evolve, with a revival on the horizon in _Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse_ for multiple platforms.
9. Donkey Kong
Nintendo’s _Donkey Kong_ series began with the original arcade game and later expanded into titles like _Donkey Kong Country_. This franchise was pivotal in demonstrating Nintendo’s gaming innovation and played a key role in maintaining the Super Nintendo’s popularity. Recently, it thrilled fans with _Donkey Kong Bananza_.
8. Resident Evil
Capcom’s _Resident Evil_ series introduced players to the terrifying world of Raccoon City, significantly impacting the survival horror genre. These games feature memorable locations, such as haunted mansions and police stations, and have spawned numerous sequels, spinoffs, and adaptations across various media.
7. Street Fighter
Capcom’s _Street Fighter 2: The World Warrior_ hit arcades in 1991 and drew crowds wherever a cabinet appeared – not just in arcades, but in laundromats, pizza parlors, and convenience stores. When it reached home consoles, players could run as many matches as they wanted without dropping more quarters.
6. Sonic the Hedgehog
Sega’s _Sonic the Hedgehog_ debuted in 1991, giving Mario some direct competition. Where Mario looked the part of a hard worker, Sonic was a blue hedgehog with an attitude, red sneakers, and one very obvious advantage: he runs fast.
