With all the rage on retro gaming, I thought I would ask some people what games they have played back from the NES. The answers surprised me. There were even several people who have not played some of the most important games on the console. So, I have put together a list of the top 5 games that everyone should play at least once.

5. Battletoads

Battletoads was one of the hardest games I played on the NES. Come to think of it, it is one of the hardest games I have ever played. If you managed to beat this game, I congratulate you. Even better than taking it solo, you could even have a friend join in with you. With its extreme difficulty, amazing gameplay, and great soundtrack, this game ranks in at number 5.

4. Metroid

Metroid was one of the first of its kind. Mixing platformer with an exploration adventure, this game quickly became a favorite. With fascinating action, great stages, and over-the-top gameplay, this game takes the number 4 spot.

3. Final Fantasy

Very few games have created such a following as the Final Fantasy games. Millions of gamers around the world wait in anticipation for each new release. Drawing in players with the story, and keeping with the amazing RPG system, this game takes the number 3 spot.

2. Legend of Zelda

The arguable king of action-adventure games. Legend of Zelda was one of the first games to put the player in an open world rather than guide them through a level. Zelda combined the adventure genre with puzzle elements making this game a fan favorite from day 1. With the outstanding gameplay, fun puzzles, and interesting enemies, this game takes number 2.

1. Super Mario Bros.

Hopefully no one is surprised by this. If you are, you need to go back and play this some more. This game is the game that everyone knows. The father of all video games, the beginning of all. Video games were around for a while before this one, but this is the game that put video games into the world. With the iconic gameplay, classic soundtrack, and original design, this game is our number 1.

While there are at least 30 games I would recommend, these are the top five. Not what you expected? What would your list look like?