The crossroads between classic games and contemporary software 

As gaming technology advances rapidly, with cutting-edge graphics and immersive virtual reality experiences, it's easy to overlook the charm and nostalgia of retro games. Fortunately, Steam, the popular digital distribution platform, offers a treasure trove of classic titles that allow gamers to relive the magic of gaming’s past. In this blog, we'll embark on a journey down memory lane and explore some of the best retro games available on Steam. From pixelated adventures to timeless classics, these games evoke a sense of nostalgia while showcasing the enduring appeal of retro gaming. Today, we will be diving deeper into what Steam is, what retro games are available to play, and how to start playing!

What is Steam?

Steam is self-described as "the ultimate destination for games, chat, and game creation." Steam is a digital distribution platform developed by Valve Corporation, a well-known developer and publisher of video games. It acts as a hub for PC gaming, allowing users to buy, download, and play a variety of games—from action and adventure, to Indie or 3rd person shooters. There’s something for everyone. Steam provides a central platform where players can access their game collection, connect with friends, join communities and discover new games. One of the main features of Steam is its wide selection of games that cover genres such as Action, Adventure, Strategy, RPG, Simulation and more. Users can browse an extensive library of approximately 30,000 games, read reviews, watch trailers and purchase games. After purchase, the game is digitally downloaded and stored in the user's Steam library, available to play at any time. 

Steam also offers community features such as forums, chat features, and social networks. Players can contact friends, join groups and participate in chats. The platform also supports multiplayer, allowing users to participate in online multiplayer games or collaborate with friends in a cooperative game. In addition, Steam offers services and features such as automatic game updates, cloud storage to synchronize game progress, achievements to fix game problems, and in-game item trading and markets. Another cool feature is the Steam Workshop, which allows players to create and share user-generated content, including mods, maps, and adaptations of supported games. In addition to games, Steam has also expanded to other digital media such as movies and TV shows, offering users a comprehensive entertainment experience. Overall, Steam has changed the gaming industry immensely by providing a convenient and user-friendly platform to buy, organize, and enjoy a wide range of games. Its extensive features, strong community support, and constant updates have made it an integral part of the gaming community.

What are the best retro games on Steam?

From your favorites to ones you may have never heard of before! For you nostalgia seeking gamers out there, you may be wondering what retro games you can find on Steam. We have 7 right here!

1. Super Mario Bros. 3

Without adding Mario, no list of classic video games would be complete. The most well-known of the list, a timeless classic, "Super Mario Bros. 3," was released in 1988. This platforming gem features memorable stages, power-ups, and unique boss encounters as it leads players on a journey through the Mushroom Kingdom. Gamers of various ages are still drawn in by its colorful graphics, catchy soundtrack, and precise controls. Levels, power-ups, and boss fights that players will never forget.

2. Doom

"Doom," widely regarded as a pioneer of the first-person shooter sub-genre, debuted in 1993 and profoundly altered the game industry. Retro gamers still need to play this groundbreaking game. Players experience fast-paced action, violent combat, and evocative stages that are dripping with tension while taking on the role of the anonymous marine facing swarms of demons on Mars. "Doom" has been given fresh life by the game's modding community, demonstrating its ongoing appeal.

3. Hotline Miami

With "Hotline Miami," a top-down shooter game that perfectly combines fast-paced action with classic visuals, get ready for an adrenaline rush. Players go on a vicious and fashionable killing spree in this 1980s Miami neon-filled setting. "Hotline Miami" provides a distinctive and intense gaming experience with its hard gameplay, retro aesthetics, and outstanding synth-wave soundtrack.

4. Psychonauts

A humorous and innovative platform game called "Psychonauts" transports players into the bizarre brains of oddball characters. Players take on the role of young psychic Raz as they traverse colorful and fantastical levels, solving puzzles and learning mysteries. "Psychonauts" continues to be a cult favorite among fans of classic video games thanks to its humorous banter, endearing characters, and deft combination of action and platforming.

5. Terraria

A sandbox adventure game called "Terraria" encourages players to let their imaginations run wild and set off on an unending journey of discovery. You must explore a huge and varied environment filled with treasures, foes, and mysteries through digging, fighting, and building. The cooperative multiplayer, strong crafting system, and retro-inspired aesthetics of "Terraria" provide countless hours of exploration and adventure.

6. Super Meat Boy

Get ready for a challenging platforming experience with "Super Meat Boy." This punishing yet addictive game will test your reflexes and determination as you navigate through treacherous levels full of deadly obstacles. With its precise controls, flashbacks and pulsating soundtrack, "Super Meat Boy" is a testament to the golden age of platformers.

7. The Secret of Monkey Island

“The Secret of Monkey Island” is an adventure game released in 1990 that showcases the wit and humor that popularized the genre. Playing as aspiring pirate Guybrush Threepwood, players will navigate a fun and imaginative world, solve puzzles, engage in witty dialogue and discover an exciting pirate story. With its clever writing, charming characters and memorable moments, this game has stood the test of time.

How to Start Playing Retro Games on Steam

Signing up for Steam is free, and you can complete the process using a web browser. All you need is a modern web browser and a working email address.

Here's how to sign up for a Steam account:

1. Head to over to Steam 
2. Enter your email address, and re-enter it to confirm. Then, select your country of residence, and respond to the robot check or enter the captcha code in the Enter the characters above box.
3. Click the links to review the Steam Subscriber Agreement and Valve Privacy Policy, and then check the box to acknowledge you've read and agree to them.
4. Select Continue.
5. Leave this page open. If you access your email with a web browser, do it in a new tab. After you confirm your email address, you will return to this page to complete the signup process.
6. When the Verify Your Email dialog box appears, Valve sends you a confirmation email.
7. Look for an email from Steam titled New Steam Account Email Verification.
8. Open the email, and select Verify My Email Address.
9. Close the email verification page and return to the Steam signup page that you left open earlier.
10. In the Steam Account Name box, enter a Steam account name. Steam checks to ensure the name you choose is available. If you don't like the name you chose during this step, you can change the username that other Steam users see at any time. Changing your Steam name is free, and you can do it as often as you like.
11. In the Choose Password box, enter a password, then re-enter it to confirm.
12. Select Done.

And that’s it! From there you will set up your Steam profile, and can begin playing the nearly 30,000 games on your browser or by installing Steam onto whatever device you choose. You can even play the best retro games on steam that were discussed above! Play Away!