
Old school fans usually have a soft spot for retro games that are punishing and even a little frustrating. Classic games like Contra, Super Mario Bros., and Double Dragon all provide thrilling gameplay that leaves players wanting more, even if it means dealing with grueling level design and ridiculously tough boss battles. These days, retro gamers miss the challenge of that golden era of video games. Luckily, the tough-as-nails side-scroller genre has seen something of a renaissance over the past several years, so plenty of difficult 2D titles are available to keep retro game lovers satisfied. Here are five great nostalgia-inspired titles to check out if you crave the good ol’ days of gaming.

Humble Bundle is back with a new bundle, offering 8 classic titles for a low price - including titles such as Super Meat Boy and Worms WMD.

As the first game to be released in the DKC series in 11 years, fans of Donkey Kong were eager to see how the iconic ape’s adventures continued. And when it was finally released, the game proved well worth the wait. With incredible level design, difficult yet fun platforming gameplay, vibrant presentation and an amazing soundtrack, “Donkey Kong Country Returns” is an amazing side-scrolling platformer and an incredible comeback for one of Nintendo’s oldest mascots.

Microsoft is a little slow this month when it comes to announcing the Games with Gold lineup for June 2022. This has led to the lineup leaking ahead of the announcement.
Super Meat Boy was a Games with Gold title back in 2016..It's leftover Meat from 2016
I actually really enjoyed Aven Colony when it was on Gamepass. I got it for free from Epic Store a few months back.
I’ll give it another go.
Here's my 5:
Mario lost levels (original 1986 version)
Sonic 3 and Knuckles
Bionic Commando (NES version)
Ninja Gaiden 2 (NES version)
Mario 3
Super Meat Boy is one of the most fun (and hardest) platformers I have ever played.
Another excellent game is, I Wanna be That Guy.