Castlevania II: Simon's Quest is one of those NES classics that feels totally different from the first game—less linear, more exploration-heavy, and weirdly cryptic at times. You’re still whipping monsters, but now there’s day/night cycles (night means tougher enemies, obviously) and towns where you can buy upgrades or get vague hints from NPCs. The controls are simple—jump, attack, use sub-weapons—but some of the puzzles? Good luck without a guide.

Oh, and the music slaps. That gloomy, looping overworld theme sticks in your head forever. Just don’t expect it to hold your hand—half the fun (or frustration) is figuring out where to go next. If you’re into old-school adventure with a side of trial-and-error, this one’s a trip.