10 Video Games That Only Exist Because Of Nostalgia

A 2D side-scrolling platformer, Shovel Knight plays homage to the gameplay and visuals of the Nintendo Entertainment System. Upon its release, the game received near-universal acclaim, and garnered multiple awards. Since then, the character himself has received his very own Amiibo, and it was even rumoured that he was being added to the roster of Super Smash Bros. Wii U, though it never came to fruition.

In the game, players take on the role of Shovel Knight, a renowned knight seeking to rescue his estranged lover, Shield Knight, from her imprisonment inside the Tower of Fate. Gameplay is divided between traditional platforming and exploration; during the former, players must utilise their shield in order to defeat enemies, overcome obstacles and progress through each of the various stages. While exploring, players are able to interact with villagers, purchase equipment, complete side-objectives, and uncover hidden secrets.

It would be criminal to dismiss Shovel Knight as mere nostalgia-bait. The game is simply incredible, and it brings more than enough new ideas to the table, fully justifying its own existence in the process. However, the game does undoubtedly owe much of its success to nostalgia. In fact, it’s undeniable, seeing as how everything about the game is essentially a throwback, from its pixelated visuals to its fast-paced, unforgiving gameplay. It certainly evolves these elements significantly, but denying their nostalgic appeal is downright impossible.