The TurboGrafx-16, also known as the PC Engine in Japan, was a console released in 1987 by Hudson Soft and NEC. Although it didn’t reach the popularity of its contemporaries like the Nintendo Entertainment System and Sega Genesis, the TurboGrafx has a cult following to this day. In this article, I’m going to explore the 15 best TurboGrafx games that every gamer should try.
The TurboGrafx was the first console to use a CD-ROM peripheral for games, which gave it a technological edge over its competitors. This allowed developers to create larger and more complex games with better sound and graphics. The TurboGrafx also had a unique controller design with a turbo switch that allowed for rapid-fire shooting in games. Despite these advantages, the console struggled to gain a foothold in the American and European markets.
The 15 Best TurboGrafx-16 Games Overview
While the TurboGrafx may not have had the same level of success as other consoles, it had a robust library of games that shouldn’t be overlooked. By knowing the best games for the console, gamers can experience some of the most innovative and exciting games of the time. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the 15 best TurboGrafx-16 games.
| Title | Genre | Publisher | Year of Release |
| Blazing Lazers | Shooter | Hudson Soft | 1989 |
| R-Type | Shooter | Hudson Soft | 1989 |
| Soldier Blade | Shooter | Hudson Soft | 1992 |
| Gate of Thunder | Shooter | Hudson Soft | 1992 |
| Super Star Soldier | Shooter | Hudson Soft | 1990 |
| Bonk’s Adventure | Platformer | Hudson Soft | 1990 |
| Splatterhouse | Platformer | NEC | 1990 |
| New Adventure Island | Platformer | Hudson Soft | 1992 |
| Ninja Spirit | Platformer | Irem | 1990 |
| Ys Book I & II | Action RPG | Hudson Soft | 1989 |
| Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes | Action RPG | Hudson Soft | 1992 |
| Neutopia II | Action RPG | Hudson Soft | 1992 |
| Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair | Action/Platform | Hudson Soft | 1989 |
| Dungeon Explorer | Action RPG | Hudson Soft | 1989 |
| Devil’s Crush | Puzzle | NEC | 1990 |
More 90s Gaming Memories
1. Blazing Lazers
Blazing Lazers, released for the TurboGrafx-16 in the late 1980s, is a top-down shooter that dazzles with its vibrant visuals and pulse-pounding action. It stands out for its incredibly smooth gameplay, thanks to the TurboGrafx’s robust processing capabilities, and its rich, colorful graphics that pushed the system’s capabilities. With nine distinct and upgradable weapons, players are offered a smorgasbord of firepower, allowing them to blast through levels in style, taking down a variety of alien foes in satisfying and visually spectacular ways.
But what truly makes Blazing Lazers a standout gem is its masterful balance of challenge and fun. Whether you’re a shoot-’em-up veteran or a newcomer, the game scales difficulty seamlessly, ensuring players are engaged but not overwhelmed. Accompanied by a catchy and memorable soundtrack, this game is not just a series of frantic battles; it’s an electrifying experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats, proving why Blazing Lazers is a hallmark title for the TurboGrafx and a must-play for any retro gaming aficionado.
2. R-Type
R-Type, a classic side-scrolling shooter, found a stellar home on the TurboGrafx-16 as a port of the original arcade sensation. This celebrated title thrusts players into an intergalactic mission to halt the sinister Bydo Empire, with the TurboGrafx-16 showcasing the game’s detailed, vibrant visuals that once dominated the arcade scene. The port faithfully retains the innovative Force mechanic—an indestructible, controllable orb that players wield as both a shield and a weapon—bringing a defining strategic layer that sets R-Type apart from other games of its genre.
But it’s not just the mechanics that make this port shine; R-Type on the TurboGrafx-16 maintains the original’s challenging yet deeply gratifying experience. Each level is a meticulously designed gauntlet that pushes players to learn, adapt, and strategically navigate through deadly obstacles and colossal, unforgettable bosses. The compelling soundtrack, a hallmark of the arcade classic, is preserved beautifully in this home console version, turning each playthrough into a pulse-pounding, nostalgia-infused journey through hostile alien territories. R-Type for the TurboGrafx-16 is more than just a game; it’s a faithful homage to its arcade roots and a definitive title in the console’s storied library.
3. Soldier Blade
Soldier Blade, a standout vertical shooter for the TurboGrafx-16, is a high-speed, action-packed experience that pushes the console’s graphical capabilities to the max. With its vivid and colorful sprite work, detailed backgrounds, and buttery-smooth scrolling, the game is a visual spectacle that showcases the raw power of the TurboGrafx-16. The game’s intuitive controls and varied weapon power-ups, from pulsing lasers to screen-clearing bombs, allow players to engage in frenetic battles with a symphony of explosions and laser fire, making every play session feel like an epic space opera.
Beyond the eye-catching visuals, Soldier Blade is a paragon of design and pacing. The game features a perfect balance of escalating challenge and accessibility, welcoming newcomers while also providing a formidable test for seasoned shoot-’em-up veterans. Each stage is a thrilling ride, with unique enemy patterns and intense, memorable boss battles that demand strategic thinking and quick reflexes. Complemented by a rousing, adrenaline-pumping soundtrack, Soldier Blade doesn’t just stand as a fantastic game for the TurboGrafx-16; it solidifies itself as one of the greatest shooters of its time, proving why it’s a must-play title for any retro gaming enthusiast.
4. Gate of Thunder
Gate of Thunder, a tour-de-force scrolling shooter for the TurboGrafx-CD, bursts onto the scene with jaw-dropping graphics and an electrifying hard rock soundtrack. As a showcase title for the TurboGrafx-CD’s expanded capabilities, this game delivers detailed, colorful visuals and smoothly animated sprites that set a new standard for console shooters of its time. With its fast-paced gameplay and a variety of customizable weapon systems, Gate of Thunder allows players to blaze through levels in style, piloting the starfighter “Hunting Dog” against waves of menacing foes and gargantuan bosses.
But Gate of Thunder is more than just a visual and auditory feast; it’s a masterfully designed experience. The game strikes a perfect balance between challenge and playability, offering multiple difficulty settings that welcome newcomers while still providing a rigorous challenge for veteran players. Each level is thoughtfully crafted with clever enemy placement and intricate patterns, making every playthrough feel like a fresh, engaging challenge. Add to this the game’s unforgettable, pulse-pounding soundtrack, and Gate of Thunder firmly secures its place as a must-play epic in the TurboGrafx-CD’s stellar library. It’s not just a game—it’s an experience that defines what the platform could achieve.
5. Super Star Soldier
Super Star Soldier, a top-tier vertical shooter for the TurboGrafx-16, takes players on a relentless, action-packed journey through hordes of enemies and challenging boss encounters. The game flaunts the console’s graphic capabilities with its bright, detailed visuals, crisp sprite work, and frenetic on-screen action. Players are armed with a spectacular array of weapon upgrades, from destructive lasers to homing missiles, allowing them to strategize and adapt as they navigate the vibrant and chaotic battlefields laid out in each stage.
But Super Star Soldier is more than just a dazzling light show; it’s a brilliantly crafted gaming experience. The game strikes a delicate balance, offering a challenge that is intense but never feels unfair. Each stage is meticulously designed, introducing new enemies and obstacles at a steady pace that keeps players engaged without overwhelming them. With its rapid-fire gameplay and a pulse-pounding soundtrack that perfectly complements the on-screen action, Super Star Soldier doesn’t just stand as a fantastic game for the TurboGrafx-16—it’s a seminal entry in the shoot-’em-up genre, marking it as a must-play title for any retro gaming enthusiast.
6. Bonk’s Adventure
Bonk’s Adventure, a flagship title for the TurboGrafx-16, introduces players to Bonk, a charming, headstrong caveman with an appetite for adventure. With its playful, cartoon-like graphics and vibrant, colorful levels, this platformer effortlessly showcases the console’s ability to render detailed and expressive characters, making the prehistoric world Bonk navigates feel alive and captivating. Bonk’s main weapon—his comically oversized head—offers a unique and memorable twist on platforming combat, as players bash and bonk their way through enemies and obstacles alike.
Beyond its delightful visuals, Bonk’s Adventure is a triumph of design and gameplay. The levels are meticulously crafted, offering a perfect blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat that keeps players engaged from start to finish. Each stage is a unique environment, filled with quirky enemies, inventive challenges, and hidden secrets that invite and reward exploration. The game’s difficulty curve is expertly tuned, welcoming to newcomers while providing enough depth and challenge to satisfy platforming veterans. In the rich library of TurboGrafx-16 games, Bonk’s Adventure stands as a defining classic, embodying the heart, soul, and fun that retro gaming is all about.
7. Splatterhouse
Splatterhouse, a horror-themed beat ’em up for the TurboGrafx-16, plunges players into a dark and gruesome world as Rick, a protagonist whose hockey-masked appearance unmistakably echoes the iconic Jason Voorhees. With its gory, graphic aesthetic and mature themes, Splatterhouse was a bold departure from the norm, instantly grabbing players’ attention with its blend of horror movie tropes and visceral, arcade-style action. Rick’s journey through a monster-infested mansion is rendered with detailed, creepy visuals that pushed the boundaries of what video games could depict, making it a standout title in the TurboGrafx-16 library.
But Splatterhouse is more than just a shock to the system; it’s a well-crafted, engaging brawler. The game challenges players to navigate Rick through a gauntlet of monstrous foes, using an array of brutal weapons—from cleavers to shotguns—to survive. Each level is a harrowing, pulse-pounding experience, designed with a careful balance of combat and platforming elements that keep players on the edge of their seats. The eerie, unsettling soundtrack further immerses players into its nightmarish world. In Splatterhouse, players don’t just play a game; they step into a horror film, becoming the protagonist of their own gruesome, adrenaline-fueled saga.
8. New Adventure Island
New Adventure Island, an entrancing action-platformer for the TurboGrafx-16, takes players on a vibrant, tropical escapade with the ever-resilient hero, Master Higgins. Racing against time to save his beloved from peril, Higgins bounds through beautifully rendered stages, from balmy beaches to perilous volcanoes, that vividly showcase the TurboGrafx-16’s graphical prowess. The game’s sprites are colorful and lively, and the world is filled with charming details, creating a sun-soaked atmosphere that’s irresistibly inviting.
But New Adventure Island is more than just a picturesque romp; it’s a skillfully constructed platforming challenge. Each level is thoughtfully designed, offering a delectable mix of enemy encounters, platforming sequences, and hidden bonuses that keep players eager to explore every nook and cranny. The gameplay is finely tuned, offering a level of difficulty that is welcoming for newcomers but still poses a hearty challenge for seasoned gamers. Complemented by an upbeat, catchy soundtrack that captures the island vibe perfectly, New Adventure Island stands as a classic, joyful adventure that is emblematic of what makes the TurboGrafx-16 such a beloved console for retro gaming enthusiasts.
9. Ninja Spirit
Ninja Spirit, a riveting action-platformer for the TurboGrafx-16, is a stellar arcade port that immerses players in the stealthy and intense world of a vengeful ninja. With its faithful adaptation of the arcade classic, this game transports players into beautifully rendered Japanese landscapes, complete with atmospheric visuals that the TurboGrafx-16 replicates with striking detail and vibrant color. As the protagonist, players wield a variety of deadly weapons, from katanas to shurikens, to battle through waves of enemies in a quest for justice, mirroring the fast-paced and challenging experience of the original arcade game.
But Ninja Spirit is more than just a visual treat; it’s a masterful and strategic action game. Each level is a meticulously designed gauntlet of enemies and obstacles, offering a stiff but rewarding challenge that requires quick reflexes and sharp strategy. One of the game’s standout features is the “spirit” mechanic, where players are accompanied by ghostly duplicates that mimic their actions, adding a unique, tactical layer to combat and navigation. The haunting, traditional Japanese-inspired soundtrack further immerses players into its mystical, shadowy world. In the TurboGrafx-16 library, Ninja Spirit stands as a superb arcade port that retains all the thrill and challenge of its coin-op roots, making it a must-play for fans of action-packed retro gaming.
10. Ys Book I & II
Ys Book I & II, a groundbreaking action RPG compilation for the TurboGrafx-CD, invites players to embark on an epic journey with red-haired hero, Adol Christin. This title was one of the first to truly showcase the potential of CD-ROM technology in gaming, offering beautifully animated cutscenes, a rich and sprawling world, and a magnificent, fully orchestrated soundtrack that was revolutionary at the time. As players explore the mythical land of Esteria, they’ll encounter detailed environments and colorful characters that come to life through the TurboGrafx-CD’s impressive graphical capabilities.
But Ys Book I & II is more than just a technological showpiece; it’s an enthralling and deeply engaging storytelling experience. The game weaves a compelling narrative, filled with memorable characters, treacherous villains, and intricate subplots that keep players invested in Adol’s quest from start to finish. The combat is innovative and fast-paced, relying on a unique ‘bump’ system that eschews traditional attack buttons for strategic movement-based encounters. This design choice, combined with intricate dungeons and challenging boss fights, ensures that players are constantly engaged, both in mind and reflex. In the realm of classic RPGs, Ys Book I & II stands tall as a pivotal and cherished chapter in the TurboGrafx’s storied library.
11. Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes
Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes, an epic role-playing adventure for the TurboGrafx-CD, immerses players in a vast, richly detailed fantasy world where every decision counts. This game marked a significant step forward for console RPGs, showcasing the TurboGrafx-CD’s ability to deliver deeper, more intricate narratives and expansive environments, complemented by an atmospheric, orchestrated soundtrack that heightened the emotional stakes of the player’s journey. As players guide the young prince Selios through perilous quests, they encounter a myriad of vibrant characters, each with their own stories to tell and roles to play in the unfolding drama.
But Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes is more than just a sprawling fantasy epic; it’s a masterclass in RPG design and storytelling. The game presents a complex and layered narrative, rich with political intrigue, endearing characters, and dramatic twists that keep players captivated from beginning to end. The combat is strategic and engaging, offering a turn-based system that demands thoughtful planning and tactical prowess. With a plethora of side quests, secret treasures, and strategic battles to engage in, Dragon Slayer ensures that players are continually rewarded for their exploration and efforts. In the annals of TurboGrafx-CD’s library, Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes stands as a seminal title that helped to shape the future of console RPGs.
12. Neutopia II
Neutopia II, a cherished action-adventure title for the TurboGrafx-16, propels players back into the vivid and entrancing world of Neutopia. As a direct sequel, this game elevates everything fans loved about the original, showcasing the console’s ability to render vibrant, detailed environments. Players assume the role of Jazeta’s son and embark on a quest across sprawling dungeons, mysterious forests, and dangerous volcanoes, all depicted with rich, colorful graphics that are a hallmark of the TurboGrafx-16’s visual capabilities.
But Neutopia II is more than just a stunning visual journey; it’s a refined and engaging gameplay experience. The game builds on its predecessor’s foundation with more intricate dungeons, clever puzzles, and a plethora of new weapons and items that empower players to approach challenges in diverse and strategic ways. Each enemy encounter and boss fight is crafted to test players’ combat skills and strategic thinking, making every victory feel hard-earned and satisfying. With its captivating narrative, which picks up where the original left off, and a soundtrack that perfectly complements the on-screen action, Neutopia II doesn’t just stand as a fantastic sequel for the TurboGrafx-16—it solidifies its legacy as a classic action-adventure game that continues to enchant players to this day.
13. Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair
Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair, an exhilarating action-platformer for the TurboGrafx-CD, invites players to embark on a vibrant and whimsical quest to save Monster World. This installment in the beloved Wonder Boy series shines brightly on the TurboGrafx, boasting colorful, detailed graphics that make each stage a visual delight, from lush jungles to fiery caverns. The lively characters and vividly animated enemies pop on screen, showcasing the console’s knack for rendering engaging, eye-catching environments.
But Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair is far more than just a visual charmer; it’s an exciting, action-packed adventure through and through. The game ingeniously blends platforming stages, where players navigate tricky terrain and combat quirky foes, with auto-scrolling shoot-’em-up sections that ratchet up the intensity and variety. Players are treated to an arsenal of upgradeable weapons and power-ups that add depth and strategy to the frenzied action. Plus, the soundtrack is a catchy, upbeat affair that perfectly complements the game’s playful atmosphere and keeps players humming along as they leap and blast their way through Monster World. In the library of TurboGrafx gems, Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair stands tall as a fun-filled, genre-blending classic that continues to captivate gamers of all ages.
14. Dungeon Explorer
Dungeon Explorer, a standout action RPG for the TurboGrafx-16, thrusts players into a dark and dangerous world teeming with monsters, mayhem, and mystic artifacts. This dungeon-crawling classic showcases the TurboGrafx-16’s capability for creating rich, detailed environments, from gloomy catacombs to vibrant, monster-infested forests. With up to five players in co-op mode—a groundbreaking feature at the time—Dungeon Explorer was a pioneer in social gaming, bringing friends together for a shared quest that felt every bit as epic as solo adventurers could hope for.
But Dungeon Explorer is more than just a cooperative romp through monster-laden labyrinths; it’s an intricate and engrossing RPG experience. The game offers a diverse roster of characters, each with unique abilities, allowing players to customize their party and strategize their approach to combat. The dungeons are designed with intelligence and care, packed with challenging enemies, devious traps, and rewarding puzzles that demand both brawn and brains to conquer
15. Devil’s Crush
Devil’s Crush, a devilishly addictive pinball game for the TurboGrafx-16, catapults players into a dark and gothic fantasy world, where flippers and silver balls become tools for epic battles against sinister forces. Sporting rich, detailed visuals that fully utilize the TurboGrafx-16’s graphical prowess, the game’s three-tiered pinball table is a living, breathing diorama of demonic knights, sinister skulls, and eerie occult imagery. Every nook and cranny of the table is meticulously crafted, each animated element adding layers of atmosphere to the fiendish fun.
But Devil’s Crush is far more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a masterstroke of game design that takes pinball to otherworldly heights. The physics are spot-on, making each ball’s trajectory feel satisfyingly real, while the game constantly surprises players with a variety of mini-games and secret bonuses, turning each session into a unique adventure. Scoring is not just a matter of keeping the ball in play; players are tasked with taking down monstrous enemies and triggering explosive chain reactions, adding a strategic layer that pinball purists and newcomers alike can sink their teeth into. With its hypnotic, rocking soundtrack intensifying the action, Devil’s Crush stands as a crowning jewel in the TurboGrafx-16 library, turning the simple joy of pinball into an epic battle between good and evil.
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The TurboGrafx-16 may not have reached the same level of popularity as other consoles of its time, but it had a robust library of games that still holds up today. From shooters to platformers to RPGs, the TurboGrafx-16 had something for every type of gamer. By knowing the best TurboGrafx games, you can experience some of the most innovative and exciting games of the time for the system.
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