DOS (Disk Operating System) was the most popular operating system for personal computers in the 1980s and early 1990s. It was the platform for some of the most iconic and influential video games of all time. While DOS may be long gone, these classic games are still available to play for free online. Here are 10 classic DOS games that every gamer should experience:
1. Commander Keen
Commander Keen is a side-scrolling platform game developed by id software. It follows the adventures of an eight-year-old boy genius named Billy Blaze as he travels through space to save the galaxy. The game features colorful graphics, challenging levels, and a catchy soundtrack.
2. Prince of Persia
Prince of Persia is a cinematic platformer game developed by Jordan Mechner. Players control an acrobatic prince who must navigate through dungeons, avoid traps, and defeat enemies to rescue the princess. The game is known for its fluid animations and challenging gameplay.
3. Doom
Doom is a first-person shooter game developed by id Software. It is considered one of the most influential games of all time, popularizing the first-person shooter genre. Players control a space marine as they battle demons on Mars. The game features fast-paced action, intense combat, and iconic weapons.
4. The Oregon Trail
The Oregon Trail is an educational simulation game developed by MECC. Players must guide a wagon train of settlers from Missouri to Oregon in the 19th century. Along the way, they must manage resources, make decisions, and survive various challenges. The game is known for its historical accuracy and educational value.
5. Lemmings
Lemmings is a puzzle-platform game developed by DMA Design. Players must guide a group of lemmings through hazardous levels by assigning them specific tasks such as digging, building, and blocking. The game requires strategic thinking and quick reflexes to save as many lemmings as possible.
6. SimCity
SimCity is a city-building simulation game developed by Maxis. Players must manage and develop a virtual city by zoning land, building infrastructure, and managing resources. The game allows players to experiment with urban planning and economics to create a thriving metropolis.
7. Wolfenstein 3D
Wolfenstein 3D is a first-person shooter game developed by id Software. Players control an Allied spy as they infiltrate a Nazi stronghold to defeat Hitler. The game is known for its fast-paced action, maze-like levels, and intense combat. It is considered one of the first true 3D shooters.
8. Duke Nukem 3D
Duke Nukem 3D is a first-person shooter game developed by 3D Realms. Players control Duke Nukem as he battles aliens in a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles. The game features interactive environments, humorous one-liners, and a wide variety of weapons. It is considered a classic of the genre.
9. Jazz Jackrabbit
Jazz Jackrabbit is a side-scrolling platform game developed by Epic MegaGames. Players control a green hare named Jazz as he battles his arch-nemesis, Devan Shell, to rescue Princess Eva Earlong. The game features colorful graphics, fast-paced gameplay, and a rocking soundtrack.
10. Commander Keen 4: Secret of the Oracle
Commander Keen 4: Secret of the Oracle is the fourth installment in the Commander Keen series. In this game, Billy Blaze must travel to the Oracle on the planet Gnosticus IV to prevent an alien invasion. The game features new enemies, levels, and abilities for players to enjoy.
FAQs
1. Can I play these DOS games on modern computers?
Yes, many of these classic DOS games have been ported to run on modern operating systems. There are also emulators available that allow you to play DOS games on your computer or mobile device.
2. Are these DOS games legal to play for free?
Most of the DOS games listed in this article are now considered abandonware, meaning they are no longer being actively sold or supported by their developers. As a result, they are often available for free download from various websites that specialize in preserving retro games.
3. Are there any modern games that have been inspired by these classic DOS games?
Yes, many modern game developers have been inspired by the gameplay and design of classic DOS games. For example, the indie game Celeste draws inspiration from platformers like Commander Keen and Prince of Persia, while the first-person shooter Dusk pays homage to games like Doom and Wolfenstein 3D.
