Passing the Controller: Sharing My Favorite Retro Games With My Son

I still remember the first time I played Super Mario World for the Super Nintendo. It was field day at my elementary school and someone brought a TV for some reason and had the game set up as an activity station. The first stage I ever played was the Donut Plains Ghosthouse - I had never played the game before and naturally I died immediately. But it was the only activity I did the entire time it was set up. I kept getting back in line over and over again until other kids had moved on and there was no longer a line. Only me. Now at 43, it is a struggle to tear my son away from whatever ridiculous game he is playing at any given time. But when I am able to get him to play a classic with me, seeing him go through the same trial-and-errors that I went through and seeing how he figures out solutions is a wonderful feeling that you can't quantify.

Sharing retro games with your kids isn't just about nostalgia. It's about connection.

Why I Share These Games

Most modern games are micro-transaction slop, theres always something missing - a memorable sense of accomplishment. The Legend of Zelda taught me to explore and problem-solve. Super Mario Bros. taught me that failure is just another attempt. These weren't just games; they were lessons I didn't even realize I was learning. 

When I introduced my son to these classics, I wasn't just sharing a hobby. I was sharing a piece of who I am.

The First Game We Played Through

We started with Super Mario 64 on the N64 when he was 3 - I thought the bigger controller and the thumbstick might be easier for him at that age. He struggled with the first few levels — the same levels I once struggled with — and then, rather quickly, he got better. The frustration turned to focus, and focus turned to triumph! Within a few weeks, nearly 100% on his own he managed to get 70 stars and make his way to the final boss.

He is 11 now and to this day he still hums music from various levels or if he hears the music somewhere he'll give me a nudge because he remembers where it came from.

Tips for Introducing Retro Games to Your Child

• Start simple — Games like Super Mario Bros., Pac-Man, Sonic the Hedgehog,  or Super Mario 64 have intuitive controls that kids pick up quickly.
• Play together — Take turns, cheer each other on, and don't be afraid to let them see you fail too.
• Tell the story — Share your memories. "I used to play this with my friends after school" makes the game come alive in a whole new way.
• Be patient — Retro games can be tough! Celebrate small wins and keep the experience fun.

Building a Collection Together

One of the best joys is sharing your collection with the next generation. My son now rummages through my handheld game collection often looking for games for his DS or the Game Boy. He has opinions about which games he wants to try next, which consoles look coolest, and which cartridges should be displayed on the shelf. As we are forced into an all digital future, I think about how my son will share his gaming experiences with his own children. So many digital only games are here one minute then gone next. Never to be seen or played by anyone ever again. There is no longer a sense of accomplishment in games. Nothing memorable, only loot boxes, downloads, and DRM control. But, decades from now I'll still be able to get Super Mario World off of the shelf and it will play just as it did in the 90s. No subscription required.

Looking to start your own family gaming tradition? Browse our retro game collection at Video Game Champs and find the perfect game to pass down to the next generation.