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I want to introduce my kids to some retro video games from when I was growing up. What are a few classic, easy-to-pick-up games from the SNES or Genesis era that still hold up well for young kids today?

Start simple with SNES Super Mario World and Genesis Sonic 2; both are easy picks.

Good starter picks for kids include SNES Super Mario World, Yoshi’s Island, and Donkey Kong Country. On Genesis, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Castle of Illusion offer quick, forgiving runs. They feel nostalgic without being too complicated, and the bright pixel art helps keep little eyes engaged, like NES classics.

These games also work well for a shared screen sesh, which helps younger kids stay focused. You can pair up in co op modes or take turns with a couple of friends on the couch version if you’re playing retro emulation. Look for titles with simple goals and forgiving lives, so frustration doesn’t derail the fun. If you want to keep it light, start with the first few levels and celebrate small wins, then slowly introduce slightly tougher sections. Finally, consider accessibility and controls; some kids find certain button layouts easier, so don’t be afraid to remap or switch between a gamepad and a retro style controller. The point is to capture the magic of the era without turning it into a test.