MSX Top 20 Games
by romhoard-research ยท 2026/02/14
The MSX computer platform (1983-1993) was a standardized home computer standard that became a treasure trove of gaming excellence, particularly in Japan. The platform saw strong support from major developers including Konami, Nihon Falcom, Compile, and Hudson Soft. MSX games are especially celebrated for their shoot-'em-ups, RPGs, and early action-adventure titles.
20
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msx
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MSX
JRPG
RPG
Hideo Kojima's creative adaptation of the original Snatcher text adventure into a turn-based RPG with "super deformed" (chibi) character graphics. Features an innovative battle system and remains one of the most beloved MSX games. Dominated the MSX Resource Center community poll with 1,249 points.
MSX
Action
Adventure
The game that defined the stealth genre and launched one of gaming's most iconic franchises. Solid Snake's infiltration mission into Outer Heaven remains revolutionary in its approach to avoiding detection rather than confronting enemies directly. Second place in MSX Resource Center poll with 1,244 points.
80
80
MSX
Shoot'em Up
Vertical
Arguably the best-looking MSX2 game of all time with impressive visuals, smooth scrolling despite being packed with sprites, excellent backgrounds, memorable boss battles, and an innovative directional weapon system. Third place in community poll with 1,104 points.
60
60
MSX
Action
Adventure
Ranked by some critics as the best MSX game ever made. This Zelda-inspired adventure combines overhead exploration with side-scrolling dungeon exploration, featuring password saves, fairy interactions, and satisfying boss battles. An MSX original that defined the action-RPG genre on the platform.
MSX
The true sequel to Metal Gear (MSX1 sequel was console exclusive). Features enhanced enemy AI, new mechanics like kneeling and crawling, and introduced popular characters to the series such as Campbell, Miller, and Gray Fox. Received 530 points in MSX Resource Center poll.
90
90
MSX
JRPG
RPG
A highly polished action RPG from Nihon Falcom featuring deep gameplay systems and exploration elements. Ranked 6th in MSX Resource Center poll with 469 points.
Ys III: Wanderers from Ys
MSX
A landmark RPG sequel with unique angled-run combat mechanics, magical spells, side-quests, and leveling systems. Epic RPG action and beloved by fans. Ys III received 441 points in community poll.
100
100
MSX
Platform
Fighter Scrolling
A Castlevania spin-off that arrived on MSX2 a month after the original Famicom Castlevania. Features a remixed castle layout, whip-based combat, and emphasizes exploration and puzzle-solving rather than pure action. Won't find a better action-adventure game on MSX2.
The Maze of Galious
The Maze of Galious
MSX
One of the greatest games on MSX, blending the best of early Metroidvania design with influences from The Legend of Zelda. Non-linear exploration through an 8-world castle with unique computer-specific mechanics. Remains a rewarding experience for those willing to explore its depths.
MSX
Platform
Arguably the best multiplayer game on the system and still fun to play today. Two dragons blow bubbles to trap enemies and create platforms in this colorful, addictive single-screen adventure. Features infectious music and strong two-player gameplay across 100+ stages.
90
MSX
A technical marvel directed by a young Hideo Kojima, featuring an innovative into-the-screen perspective and diverse stage designs with RPG elements. Players guide Pentarou around the world searching for a magic apple. Praised for its slick presentation and seemingly endless secrets.
90
90
MSX
Shoot'em Up
Horizontal
A special Konami exclusive for MSX with R-Type-inspired weapon systems, smooth scrolling, and challenging level design. Features detailed sprites and memorable boss encounters. Rarely reissued since its original release.
70
70
MSX
Shoot'em Up
Vertical
The game that put Compile on the map. Features innovative artificial intelligence that adjusts difficulty dynamically based on player actions - one of the first implementations of this concept. Abundant enemies and power-ups make it one of the most important and influential shoot-'em-ups of all time.
70
MSX
A Metroidvania-like design differentiated by the need to switch between various members of a family (including the dog). Each character has unique abilities, creating diverse gameplay as players search for crowns to unlock the Dragon Slayer weapon. Praised for its exploration and Metroidvania design.
MSX
JRPG
RPG
The MSX2 version of the landmark RPG features a larger color palette with more vibrant graphics than the Famicom version, improved music and sound effects, and party customization. Allows players to select four characters from six classes with challenging gameplay requiring experience grinding.
90
90
MSX
Platform
Shooter Scrolling
Shooter
Konami's classic run-and-gun action game remains at the top of most platform lists. The MSX version uses single-screen levels without scrolling or multiplayer but retains core gameplay excellence. A timeless action classic that stole countless hours from players.
90
90
MSX
Shoot'em Up
Horizontal
A unique Gradius sequel featuring new ideas including the wild option to fly inside the core of a destroyed boss. Players defend planet Gradius against Dr. Venom's forces with customizable weapons including napalm missiles. Despite some choppy scrolling due to hardware limitations, it delivers core Gradius excellence.
MSX
A vertically-scrolling fantasy-horror shooter that innovatively combines RPG mechanics with selectable stages and leveling systems. A unique hybrid that stands apart from traditional shmups.
80
80
MSX
Platform
Shooter Scrolling
A technically impressive action game featuring a mecha robot that can transform into a plane. Includes smooth scrolling, maze-like level design, and auto-aim shooting mechanics. Praised for its innovative transformation mechanic and exploration elements.
85
MSX
Platform
Fighter Scrolling
One of the best games you've probably never heard of. Described as a Metroidvania precursor with exploration through vast castle environments and unique puzzle-solving. Features cooperative two-player gameplay and memorable boss encounters.