1988 5 games

Best Video Games of 1988

All 5 classic games released in 1988 — with reviews, cheats, and trivia.

💡 1988 Gaming Overview

  • 5 classic games released in 1988
  • Available on SEGA-GENESIS, NES
  • Top rated: Mega Man 2 (9.5/10)
  • Genres represented: Beat 'em Up, Action, Platformer

1988 Game Releases

Sorted by rating
Mega Man 2 screenshot
NES
9.5
1988 · Capcom

The pinnacle of the NES Mega Man series. Mega Man 2 perfected the formula of absorbing defeated bosses' weapons and applied it to eight masterfully designed stages with an all-time great soundtrack.

Ninja Gaiden screenshot
NES
9
1988 · Tecmo

Ryu Hayabusa's first mission introduced cinematic storytelling to the NES with anime-style cutscenes, while delivering punishingly precise action-platformer gameplay that tested every ninja's patience.

Bionic Commando screenshot
NES
8.8
1988 · Capcom

The NES game that dared to remove the jump button. Bionic Commando replaced conventional platforming with a grappling hook mechanic that created one of the most unique action experiences of the era.

Double Dragon screenshot
NES
8.5
1988 · Technos Japan

The beat-em-up that started it all. Double Dragon's blend of martial arts combat, weapon pickups, and mission-based brawling defined the belt-scrolling genre for years to come.

Altered Beast screenshot
SEGA-GENESIS
7.5
1988 · Sega

The Genesis launch pack-in that greeted millions of new console owners. Altered Beast's transformation mechanic was innovative and memorable, even if the overall game was short and repetitive by modern standards.

1988 Gaming FAQ

What were the best video games of 1988?
The best games of 1988 include Mega Man 2, Ninja Gaiden, Bionic Commando, Double Dragon, Altered Beast. It was a year that brought some outstanding Platformer and Action titles.
What consoles were popular in 1988?
In 1988, games were released for SEGA-GENESIS, NES.
How many games were released in 1988?
Our database contains 5 games from 1988, spanning 2 platforms.