The games we grew up with hold a unique kind of magic. Nintendo classics shaped generations of gamers, offering unforgettable adventures, iconic characters, and moments that remain etched in our memories. While some of these beloved titles have been re-released in virtual libraries or received minor updates, many are overdue for a full remake that harnesses the power of modern technology. Just imagine your favorite Nintendo classics brought to life with breathtaking visuals, refined mechanics, and fresh gameplay features—revitalized to captivate both longtime fans and a new generation of players. Here’s our list of Nintendo classics we’re dying to see remade, and how they could shine in a new generation.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

If there’s one game that defined an era of gaming, it’s The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Originally released on the Nintendo 64 in 1998, this groundbreaking adventure transported players to the vast, enchanting world of Hyrule. While the 3DS version offered an enhanced port of the game, it’s high time for a full remake that rivals modern Zelda titles like Breath of the Wild.

Picture Ocarina of Time with open-world exploration, detailed environments, and updated combat systems. The heroics of young Link, the haunting melodies of the ocarina, and the mystery of dungeons like the Water Temple could be even more immersive with dynamic lighting, updated puzzles, and richer storytelling. A full remake could introduce a larger Hyrule filled with surprises, elevating it to meet the standards of today’s RPG epics.

2. Super Mario RPG

Released in 1996 on the SNES, Super Mario RPG combined the whimsy of the Mushroom Kingdom with the depth of a role-playing game. Developed in partnership with Square (now Square Enix), it was an unexpected but delightful blend of humor, exploration, and turn-based combat. What makes this particularly special is the vibrant cast, including characters like Mallow and Geno, who haven’t appeared in Mario titles since.

A remake of Super Mario RPG could breathe life into the series with a visual overhaul reminiscent of Square Enix’s stunning 2D-HD games, like Octopath Traveler. Enhanced combat mechanics, character customization, and expanded quests could modernize the experience while maintaining its charm. Plus, who wouldn’t want to see Bowser wielding his iconic Chain Chomp weapon in glorious 4K?

3. Metroid Prime

The original Metroid Prime on the Nintendo GameCube set the bar for first-person exploration games. Released in 2002, it successfully brought Samus Aran’s intergalactic exploits into 3D, immersing players in atmospheric alien worlds. With the announcement of Metroid Prime 4 on the horizon, now is the perfect time to reintroduce fans to the game that started the Prime series.

A remake of Metroid Prime could benefit from modern graphics engines, delivering lifelike alien environments and fluid movement. Imagine Samus’s visor seamlessly reacting to environmental effects like fog and ice, and revamped combat systems that balance nostalgic mechanics with innovations inspired by recent FPS games. For new players, a remake could serve as the perfect introduction to the Metroid saga.

4. Donkey Kong 64

The King of the Jungle made a splash in the 3D arena with Donkey Kong 64. Released in 1999, this massive platforming adventure featured five playable characters, collectible-filled levels, and entertaining mini-games. While it’s fondly remembered, critics and fans alike have noted that parts of the gameplay haven’t aged gracefully, with extensive backtracking being one of its most significant criticisms.

An updated version of Donkey Kong 64 could streamline the mechanics for a modern audience, incorporating tighter level design and more balanced pacing. With Nintendo’s expertise in creating brilliant platformers (see Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze), a remake could add intuitive controls, dynamic environments, and co-op multiplayer to bring the Kong family back into the spotlight.

5. EarthBound (Mother 2)

There’s no cult classic quite like EarthBound. Originally released for the SNES in 1994, this quirky RPG delighted players with its witty dialogue, psychedelic visuals, and unconventional story. Its protagonist, Ness, is still celebrated in games like Super Smash Bros., but we’ve yet to see his full adventures adapted for a new generation.

A full remake of EarthBound could visually enhance its trippy world while maintaining the quirky charm that made it special. Imagine its iconic battle sequences rendered with bold new animations, or its zany locales revamped in gorgeous detail. Add voice acting and orchestrated versions of its catchy music, and suddenly, the beloved RPG would feel like a fresh but familiar experience.

6. F-Zero GX

We haven’t seen a new F-Zero title since F-Zero GX wowed players on the GameCube in 2003. This futuristic racer is renowned for its lightning-fast gameplay, razor-sharp controls, and exhilarating tracks, but the series has since taken an unfortunate hiatus. Fans have been begging Nintendo to revisit F-Zero for years, and remaking GX would be the perfect way to test the waters.

A F-Zero GX remake could include upgraded visuals for an even greater sense of speed, expanded track designs, and a dynamic online multiplayer mode. With the resurgence of competitive racing games, a visually spectacular reboot of F-Zero would remind the gaming world why Captain Falcon’s high-speed exploits deserve a spot in every player’s library.

7. Star Fox 64

The definitive Star Fox game, Star Fox 64 soared onto the Nintendo 64 with thrilling space battles, memorable voice acting, and a branching storyline that encouraged replayability. It’s a pinnacle of the rail-shooter genre, but outside of a 3DS port, it hasn’t been rereleased to modern audiences.

A remake of Star Fox 64 would benefit enormously from modern graphics engines. Imagine dynamic dogfights rendered in stunning detail, with rich, volumetric explosions and improved AI for your wingmates. Enhanced branching paths and even a deeper online multiplayer mode could breathe new life into this intergalactic adventure. Wouldn’t you love to hear Peppy exclaim “Do a barrel roll!” with modern voice acting?

8. Pokémon Red & Blue

The original Pokémon Red and Blue introduced us to the world of Pokémon, sparking a global phenomenon when they first hit the Game Boy in the late '90s. While these games have been reimagined with Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen, and touched upon through Pokémon Let's Go Pikachu/Eevee, fans still dream of a true modern remake that reaches the production value of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

A switch-era reimagining of Red and Blue could reintroduce Kanto with an open-world approach and refined mechanics. Picture an updated battle system, fully explorable towns, and the ability to bond with your Pokémon in deeper ways. A remake could redefine Kanto for a brand-new generation while retaining the magic of the originals.

9. The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap

Capcom’s collaboration with Nintendo on The Minish Cap for the Game Boy Advance holds a special place in many fans’ hearts. The game’s extraordinary shrinking mechanic allowed Link to explore both grandiose environments and teeny-tiny details, creating some of the most inventive puzzles in Zelda history.

A remake could take this clever concept to new heights, creating a magical, seamless world blending micro and macro perspectives. Add modernized combat and a reorchestrated soundtrack, and this portable gem could become a standout title on the big screen for the first time.

10. Punch-Out!!

Nintendo’s beloved boxing game has been thrilling players since the NES, and while the Wii version delighted fans with its nostalgic charm, it’s time to bring Punch-Out!! back for another round in HD glory. The series’ cartoonish humor, memorable opponents, and reflex-based gameplay make it a perfect candidate for a remake.

Pairing Punch-Out!!’s core mechanics with modern features like online multiplayer, motion-tracking controls, and a workout-inspired mode could revitalize the classic for lifelong fans and newcomers. Imagine squaring off against Glass Joe or King Hippo with refined animations and silky-smooth gameplay.