Retro gaming has a charm that’s hard to resist, especially for those who grew up with pixelated adventures and simplistic yet addictive gameplay. If you are a fan of Terraria and the nostalgia of classic 2D games, this guide is your ultimate resource. From complex world-building to action-packed platforming, we have put together a list of the best 2D games that bring back the feel of retro gaming and offer modern twists.
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Game Rant’s Best 2D Games for Gamers who love Terraria and Retro Nostalgia
Best Overall 2D Game for Retro Nostalgia Gamers
Stardew Valley
You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot in Stardew Valley. Armed with hand-me-down tools and a few coins, you set out to begin your new life. Can you learn to live off the land and turn these overgrown fields into a thriving home? It won’t be easy. Ever since Joja Corporation came to town, the old ways of life have all but disappeared. The community center, once the town’s most vibrant hub of activity, now lies in shambles. But the valley seems full of opportunity. With a little dedication, you might just be the one to restore Stardew Valley to greatness!
- Released
February 26, 2016- Developer(s)
ConcernedApe
- Publisher(s)
ConcernedApe
- Multiplayer
Local Multiplayer
, Online Multiplayer- Engine
Proprietary
- ESRB
E for Everyone (Fantasy Violence, Mild Blood, Mild Language, Simulated Gambling, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco)
- How Long To Beat
53 Hours
- Steam Deck Compatibility
Verified
- X|S Enhanced
No
- File Size Xbox Series
1 GB (November 2023)
- Split Screen Orientation
Vertical or Horizontal
- Number of Players
1-4
- Local Co-Op Support
1-4 Players
- Cross Save
cross-progression is only available between the PC and mobile versions of the game
- Cross-Platform Play
Stardew Valley does not currently support crossplay between different consoles and PC
Pros
- Rich blend of RPG and simulation genres
- Supports local and online multiplayer
- Compatible with Steam Deck
Cons
- Time management can be stressful
- Simulated gambling elements
Stardew Valley, developed and published by ConcernedApe, is the best overall 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers. Released on February 26, 2016, it blends RPG and simulation elements, providing a captivating experience. Available on multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox One, PS4, Switch, Android, and iOS, it has a Top Critic Rating of 90 and a 99% Critics Recommend score.
Though it presents a challenge in time management, the game offers endless activities and discoveries. The option to play both locally and online with friends enhances the experience. With continuous updates and compatibility with platforms like Steam Deck, Stardew Valley remains a cherished classic and the best overall 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers.
Best PlayStation 5 2D Game for Retro Nostalgia Gamers
Animal Well
Shared Memory’s Animal Well is a Metroidvania with exploration, puzzles, and platforming. Billy Basso’s game takes place in a dense labyrinth filled with animals.
- Released
May 9, 2024- Developer(s)
Shared Memory
- Publisher(s)
Bigmode
- ESRB
E For Everyone Due To Mild Fantasy Violence
- How Long To Beat
7 Hours
- PS Plus Availability
Extra & Premium
Pros
- Immersive atmosphere
- Challenging puzzles
- Beautiful visuals
Cons
- Relatively short gameplay duration
- Can be quite challenging
Animal Well is a Metroidvania-style game that offers a mesmerizing experience for fans of classic titles, making it the best PlayStation 5 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers. Developed by Shared Memory and published by Bigmode, the game combines exploration, puzzles, and platforming within a dense labyrinth filled with various animals. Moreover, Animal Well is available on PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch and is included in the PS Plus Extra & Premium categories, making it accessible to a wide range of players.
Animal Well is relatively short, with an estimated completion time of about 7 hours. Despite this, it impresses with its rich, atmospheric storytelling and challenging gameplay. The game has received high praise, with a top critic rating of 89 and 98% of critics recommending it. Its availability on PS Plus under the Extra & Premium categories makes it more appealing. This exceptional feature is why “Animal Well” is the best PlayStation 5 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers.
Best Xbox 2D Game for Retro Nostalgia Gamers
Ori and The Blind Forest
4.5
Moon Studios’Ori and the Blind Forest is a Metroidvania that focuses on platforming rather than combat. Ori, a guardian spirit, heads out on a journey to bring balance back to Nibel’s forest. Originally released on Xbox One and PC, the game’s Definitive Edition was eventually ported onto the Nintendo Switch.
- Released
March 11, 2015- Developer(s)
Moon Studios
- ESRB
E For Everyone due to Mild Fantasy Violence
- How Long To Beat
9 Hours
- X|S Enhanced
No
- File Size Xbox Series
9 GB (November 2023)
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Challenging platforming
- High replay value
Cons
- Not enhanced for Xbox X|S
- Can be very difficult
Ori and the Blind Forest, developed by Moon Studios and published by Xbox Game Studios, is the best Xbox 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers. This Metroidvania platformer, known for its stunning design and touching story, challenges players with intricate platforming rather than combat, making it a unique entry in the genre. Released on multiple platforms, including Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, it has captivated a wide audience and earned a Top Critic Rating of 90.
Even with its high difficulty, the game is engaging and rewarding for those who love both beauty and challenge in their games. The Definitive Edition makes it easier to play, allowing more players to enjoy its charm. Ori and the Blind Forest’s visual appeal and high replay value make it the best Xbox 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers.
Best Single-player 2D Game for Retro Nostalgia Gamers
Balatro
Balatro is a poker-inspired roguelike deck builder all about creating powerful synergies and winning big.
The poker roguelike. Balatro is a hypnotically satisfying deckbuilder where you play illegal poker hands, discover game-changing jokers, and trigger adrenaline-pumping, outrageous combos.
Combine valid poker hands with unique Joker cards in order to create varied synergies and builds. Earn enough chips to beat devious blinds, all while uncovering hidden bonus hands and decks as you progress. You’re going to need every edge you can get in order to reach the boss blind, beat the final ante and secure victory
Strategy
Digital Card Game
Roguelike
- Released
February 20, 2024- Developer(s)
LocalThunk
- Publisher(s)
Playstack
- ESRB
E For Everyone
Pros
- Highly addictive gameplay
- Extremely polished visuals
- Endless synergy possibilities
Cons
- Can be overwhelming for new players
- Requires time to learn
Balatro is the best single-player 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers, capturing the feel of deck-building roguelikes with a modern twist. Developed by LocalThunk and published by Playstack, it offers a highly addictive experience with endless possibilities for building synergies. Further, the game is polished to perfection, and its visuals are stunning, providing an engaging experience across multiple platforms, including PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.
The game can be overwhelming for new players because it requires time to learn. However, the depth of gameplay and the satisfaction of crafting effective decks make it worthwhile. With a top critic rating of 91 and 100% critic recommendation, it’s no wonder this game has received overwhelmingly positive reviews. Balatro is the best single-player 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers.
Best Multiplayer 2D Game for Retro Nostalgia Gamers
Terraria
3.5
Dig, Fight, Explore, Build: The very world is at your fingertips as you fight for survival, fortune, and glory. Will you delve deep into cavernous expanses in search of treasure and raw materials with which to craft ever-evolving gear, machinery, and aesthetics? Perhaps you will choose instead to seek out ever-greater foes to test your mettle in combat? Maybe you will decide to construct your own city to house the host of mysterious allies you may encounter along your travels?
In the World of Terraria, the choice is yours!
Blending elements of classic action games with the freedom of sandbox-style creativity, Terraria is a unique gaming experience where both the journey and the destination are completely in the player’s control. The Terraria adventure is truly as unique as the players themselves!
Are you up for the monumental task of exploring, creating, and defending a world of your own?
- Platform(s)
PC
, PS3
, PS4
, PS5
, Xbox 360
, Xbox One
, Xbox Series S
, Xbox Series X
, Switch
, Vita
, iOS
, Android
, macOS
, Linux
, 3DS
, Stadia- Released
May 16, 2011- Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer
- Engine
Proprietary
- ESRB
T for Teen: Blood and Gore, Cartoon Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol
- How Long To Beat
100 Hours
- Steam Deck Compatibility
Verified
- X|S Enhanced
No
- PS Plus Availability
Extra & Premium
- File Size Xbox Series
418 MB (March 2023)
Pros
- Rich, immersive environments
- Comprehensive crafting system
- Supports online multiplayer
Cons
- Blood and gore may not be suitable for all players
- Lack of enhancements for Xbox Series X|S
Terraria, developed by Re-Logic and published by 505 Games, is considered the best multiplayer 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers that offers classic pixel art with modern gameplay elements. It is available on many platforms, including PS3, PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch, Vita, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, 3DS, and Stadia. This action-adventure sandbox game offers exploration, building, combat, and survival, making it ideal for fans of retro nostalgia.
The game’s multiplayer mode is great because it allows players to team up to conquer challenges together, making it more fun and interactive. Even with the potential drawbacks like the lack of enhancements for Xbox Series X|S, Terraria’s immersive environments, fitting music, and extensive crafting system provide a deeply rewarding experience. This exceptional makes Terraria the best multiplayer 2D game for retro nostalgia gamers who want an enjoyable sandbox adventure.
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Choosing the Best 2D Game
When choosing a 2D game, consider:
- Gameplay Mechanics: Look for games with easy-to-use controls and engaging gameplay loops.
- Visual Style: Choose games with appealing art styles that resonate with your nostalgic preferences.
- Replayability: Games that offer various modes, challenges, or unlockables tend to keep players hooked longer.
FAQ
Q: What defines a 2D game?
A 2D game is one where gameplay occurs in two dimensions, typically featuring side-scrolling or top-down perspectives. These games emphasize pixel art and simpler mechanics compared to 3D games.
Q: How does Terraria compare to other 2D sandbox games?
Terraria stands out due to its deep crafting system, expansive exploration, and challenging combat. It offers a blend of action and creativity that appeals to fans of retro-style 2D games.
Q: Are 2D games still popular today?
Yes, 2D games remain popular, particularly among indie developers and retro gaming enthusiasts. Their nostalgic appeal and unique art styles continue to attract a dedicated fanbase.
