Top 5 Underrated Nintendo Classics Across Generations

In the long history of Nintendo games, many titles have failed to become the "big hit" of their times despite their innovative gameplay, storytelling, and artistic prowess. Some of the classics herein mentioned may not have sold too well at their time or risen to the status of headline grabbers, but they have certain qualities about them that definitely make for a cult following.

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Ranking Nintendo's Top-5 Underrated Classics

The following criteria—independent games with unique gameplay mechanics, others with critical acclaim vs. commercial success, and growing fanbases—are what we believe can truly put the spotlight on games across Nintendo platforms that deserve another look.

5. Gris (Nintendo Switch)

Gris Cover Art | Image: Nintendo

One of those recent masterpieces that seemingly are only marked for obscurity, Gris presents expressive watercolor art and deep storytelling. Upon its release, this game was critically acclaimed by many who noticed its art direction and emotional storytelling, though it didn't reach a mainstream audience, perhaps since it hails from the indie status. Yet, its impact on players and critics alike marks it as a significant title in the Switch's indie library.

4. Muramasa: The Demon Blade (Wii)

Demon Blade | Image: Nintendo

The beautiful, hand-ddrawn visuals combined with exciting action gameplay ensure that Muramasa: The Demon Blade is nothing less than a visual delight. Its art style and manner of play received very positive reviews from critics, which led to the estimation of The Last Story among the most beautiful games for the Wii. His sales were at the modest level, however, reflecting the niche market for action RPGs in the Wii era. Its spirit still remains, carried by fans who could not but see the beauty within the game.

3. Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem (GameCube)

Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem | Image: Nintendo

Eternal Darkness introduced a new sanity system to the player, which would affect his gameplay unexpectedly. This GameCube title was critically acclaimed, lauded for an innovative approach to storytelling and horror, and given high marks for its execution. Despite the positive reception, Eternal Darkness did not sell well and is generally attributed to staying in its niche. However, it set a benchmark for the horror genre and made an impact on the games that followed in this genre.

2. Blast Corps (N64)

Blast Corps | Image: Nintendo

Blast Corps presented a novel concept to N64 players: demolish anything in your path to ensure clear passage for a runaway nuclear missile carrier. When the game came out, it gained critical acclaim, being that of innovation in its gameplay and strategic depth, yet failing in blockbuster sales. It's a game that many did not play but generally speak fondly of when it comes to games considered standouts for creativity and fun within the N64 library.

1. EarthBound (SNES)

Earth Bound | Image: Nintendo

EarthBound came across as rather unique within the RPG genre, combining odd humor with a really touching story in this retro title on the SNES. The game initially saw commercial difficulty in the west, with sales figures not meeting the desired mark exactly. That's not to say it approached its subject matter without a proper sense of respect; the game holds a Metacritic score of superb. Over the years, EarthBound has developed a fanatic following and, in the end, became somewhat of a cult classic by reputation alone.

If you're interested in learning more about the title, there is a must-watch EarthBound documentary that dives into the history of what makes this game so popular.