If you’re a fan of classic arcade games, you may have heard of MAME, or Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator. MAME allows users to play old arcade games on their computers, using ROMs. But with so many MAME ROMs out there, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we’ll be looking at some of the best MAME ROMs you need to try.
Check out our article on What Are MAME ROMs and How to Use Them
What is MAME?
Before we dive into the ROMs, let’s first take a look at what MAME is. MAME is an emulator program that allows users to play old arcade games on their computers. It was first released in 1997, and since then has become one of the most popular emulator programs available. MAME is able to emulate a wide range of arcade machines, allowing users to play classic games from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
The Best MAME ROMs
Now that we know what MAME is, let’s take a look at some of the best MAME ROMs out there.
- Pac-Man
No list of classic arcade games would be complete without Pac-Man. This iconic game was first released in 1980 and has since become a cultural icon. In Pac-Man, players control a yellow character who must navigate a maze, eating pellets and avoiding ghosts. It’s a simple but addictive game that is still fun to play today.
- Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong was first released in 1981 and is another classic arcade game that is still fun to play today. In the game, players control a character named Mario who must rescue a woman named Pauline from a giant gorilla named Donkey Kong. The game is challenging but rewarding, and is a must-play for any fan of classic arcade games.
- Street Fighter II
Street Fighter II was first released in 1991 and is one of the most popular fighting games of all time. In the game, players select a character and then battle other characters in one-on-one fights. The game is known for its deep gameplay mechanics and memorable characters, and is still played competitively today.
- Metal Slug
Metal Slug was first released in 1996 and is a side-scrolling shooter game. In the game, players control a soldier who must fight his way through enemy lines, using a variety of weapons and vehicles. The game is known for its challenging gameplay and memorable characters, and is still popular today.
- Galaga
Galaga was first released in 1981 and is a classic space shooter game. In the game, players control a spaceship and must fight off waves of enemy ships. The game is known for its challenging gameplay and addictive power-ups, and is still fun to play today.
- Mortal Kombat
Mortal Kombat was first released in 1992 and is another popular fighting game. The game is known for its brutal violence and memorable characters, and is still played competitively today. Mortal Kombat has since become a cultural icon, with multiple sequels and adaptations.
- Bubble Bobble
Bubble Bobble was first released in 1986 and is a platform game. In the game, players control two characters who must navigate a series of levels, defeating enemies by trapping them in bubbles. The game is known for its colorful graphics and catchy music, and is still fun to play today.
- Street Fighter Alpha 3
Street Fighter Alpha 3 was first released in 1998 and is another popular fighting game. The game features a large roster of characters and deep gameplay mechanics, making it a favorite among fighting game enthusiasts.
- The King of Fighters ’98
The King of Fighters ’98 was first released in 1998 and is a fighting game that features characters from various SNK franchises. The game is known for its fast-paced gameplay and complex fighting system, and is still played competitively today.
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was first released in 1989 and is a side-scrolling beat ’em up game. In the game, players control one of the four turtles and fight their way through hordes of enemies. The game is known for its fun co-op gameplay and nostalgic charm.
- Final Fight
Final Fight was first released in 1989 and is another side-scrolling beat ’em up game. In the game, players control one of three characters who must fight their way through a city to rescue the mayor’s daughter. The game is known for its tough difficulty and memorable characters.
- Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid was first released in 1998 and is a stealth game. In the game, players control Solid Snake as he infiltrates a nuclear weapons facility to neutralize a terrorist threat. The game is known for its cinematic storytelling and innovative gameplay mechanics, and is still regarded as one of the best games of all time.
- X-Men: Children of the Atom
X-Men: Children of the Atom was first released in 1994 and is a fighting game that features characters from the X-Men comic book series. The game is known for its colorful graphics and fun gameplay mechanics, and is a must-play for any fan of the X-Men franchise.
- Contra
Contra was first released in 1987 and is a side-scrolling shooter game. In the game, players control one of two commandos who must fight their way through a series of levels to stop an alien invasion. The game is known for its challenging gameplay and memorable boss fights.
- Samurai Shodown II
Samurai Shodown II was first released in 1994 and is a fighting game that takes place in feudal Japan. The game is known for its unique fighting system and diverse cast of characters, and is still played competitively today.
Conclusion
There are countless MAME ROMs out there, but these are some of the best that you should definitely try. From classic games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong to newer titles like Metal Gear Solid and Street Fighter Alpha 3, there’s something for everyone. So fire up your emulator and start playing!
FAQs
- What is MAME?
- MAME is an emulator program that allows users to play old arcade games on their computers.
- Are these ROMs legal to download and play?
- It depends on your country’s laws regarding emulation and copyright. Make sure to do your research before downloading any ROMs.
- Can I play these ROMs on my phone?
- It depends on your phone’s capabilities and the emulator program you’re using. Some MAME emulators are available for mobile devices.
- What’s the best way to play MAME ROMs?
- It’s best to use a keyboard or gamepad to play MAME ROMs. Using a mouse can be difficult and inaccurate.
- Can I play these ROMs online?
- Some websites allow you to play MAME ROMs online, but be wary of viruses and legal issues.
Arcade-museum.com – This website is a comprehensive database of classic arcade games, cabinets, and related memorabilia.
