8 Best Retro Game Collections on the PS5

Sometimes, one simply cannot surpass the classics. With an increasing number of publishers assembling their retro games into elegant collections for modern consoles, it is becoming easier than ever to indulge in these iconic titles. Often, this is accompanied by impressive fan service in the form of artwork, music, and much more.

The PlayStation 5 hosts a multitude of these magnificent retro game collections - some resurrect older games from beloved series, while others conceal hidden treasures, granting them a second chance to shine. These collections provide the perfect gateway into these retro games or serve as an ideal means to rediscover old favorites from the past.

8 Mega Man Legacy Collection

The first six games of the Mega Man series are regarded as some of the most meticulously crafted titles on the NES, and their quality has effortlessly stood the test of time in the decades since their release. Each game is a masterclass in action-platform design, captivating players with immersive 8-bit music and audio.

The Mega Man Legacy Collection was one of the earlier retro compilations to be released. It encompasses features that have become staple elements of such collections, such as the ability to rewind, classic artwork, a music player, and above all, precise emulation.

7 Sega Genesis Classics

The Sega Genesis holds a special place in the hearts of many people, and this comprehensive collection provides a thorough overview of the system's iconic catalog. It includes classics like Sonic and Streets of Rage, but also features many fantastic, lesser-known games such as Landstalker and Alien Soldier.

Admittedly, the Sega Genesis Classics commits the unforgivable sin of not allowing you to view any cover artwork of the games. So if you wish to spend hours staring at the cover image of Kid Chameleon, this is not the right place for you. However, the robust collection of 16-bit gems compensates for the somewhat lacking fan service features.

6 SNK 40th Anniversary Collection

In the 1980s, SNK was a significant developer with an arcade and console game catalog that could rival giants like Capcom and Konami. However, due to a lack of major modern games, especially in the Western market, SNK has fallen into relative obscurity in recent years.

The SNK 40th Anniversary Collection catapults these classic games back into the spotlight through an outstanding compilation that leaves no stone unturned. It features timeless gems such as Ikari Warriors, Baseball Stars, and Crystalis, along with a wealth of additional goodies that delve into the history of this esteemed developer.

5 Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle

During the golden years of the early 90s, Capcom reigned as the undisputed kings of the beat 'em up genre, and this compilation brings together some of the developer's absolute finest works in the brawler scene. These games are still perfect for playing, whether alone or with friends, and the addition of online multiplayer is a natural complement.

The best thing about the Capcom Beat 'em Up Bundle is that the included games cover nearly a decade of glorious arcade entertainment. Sure, everyone knows Final Fight. But games like Armored Warriors and Battle Circuit had little chance to shine in the 90s, despite being absolute gems. Therefore, it is delightful to see them resurrected for the 21st century.

4 Capcom Arcade Stadium

Capcom Arcade Stadium transports you straight back to the 80s and 90s with a fantastic compilation of some of the publisher's best games. The variety of eras, genres, and series presented here will leave any retro arcade fan salivating.

Although it's somewhat frustrating to have to purchase the games in separate bundles instead of having them all complete from the start, the collection of classics in Capcom Arcade Stadium is simply too strong to ignore. It brings together all the colors and joy of the old arcade halls, transferring that magic for the modern audience to immerse themselves in.

3 Castlevania Anniversary Collection

Before Castlevania became a successful Netflix series, before it even introduced the "vania" in Metroidvania, it was a series of extremely high-quality action-platformers, each wrapped in a creepy, gothic aesthetic that has stood the test of time. The Castlevania Anniversary Collection brings together these early games of the series, offering a wonderful lesson in 8- and 16-bit history.

The opportunity to experience the growth of the Castlevania series in its formative years is a great demonstration of how developers learn, refine, and ultimately perfect a formula that has endured steadily throughout the years. The introduction of save states smooths out some of the rougher edges of these games, making them more accessible than ever before.

2 Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection

In the world of fighting games, Street Fighter is to the genre what Super Mario is to platform games. No series is more strongly associated with the genre than Capcom's Street Fighter, so it was only fitting that the 30th anniversary of the series was celebrated with a collection that is worthy of its glorious history.

The Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection is a treasure trove of retro fighting game enjoyment, covering a wide range of the series' popular offerings. From the groundbreaking success of Street Fighter 2 to the refined mechanics of the Alpha games, it's hard to find a weak spot in this excellent collection.

1 Atari 50: The Anniversary Collection

Atari 50: The Anniversary Collection is more than just a retro game collection. It is an interactive documentary that seamlessly combines gameplay, video interviews, and archival material about this groundbreaking company to create a multimedia celebration of one of the most renowned names in the gaming industry.

Even if you don't have a particular connection to Atari's retro game collection, the love and care put into the meticulous selection of these games speak to a higher level of commitment compared to any other retro game collection on the PS5.