The 25 best Dreamcast games - of all time

We'll now look at the top Dreamcast games that are still enjoyable to play today.

When it was first released, the Dreamcast was a gaming system that was way ahead of its time. Think pioneer of online gaming, arcade experience at home and many more.

It had excellent graphics and music, as well as a large game library that appealed to a diverse spectrum of gamers.

We'll take a closer look at some of the most intriguing games that contributed to the Dreamcast's continuing success.

There is a Dreamcast game for everyone, whether you like old gaming or want to try something new.

It's a shame that piracy and the absence of a DVD player were the Dreamcast's downfall, and we believe it deserves greater attention.

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25. Metropolis Street Racer

The graphics of Metropolis Street Racer are fantastic and bring the metropolis to life. The attention to detail is outstanding, with each car and location well conceived and portrayed. The lighting effects and shading in the game give an extra level of realism, resulting in a very realistic experience.

Metropolis Street Racer's soundtrack is fantastic, with a combination of techno and hip-hop tunes that perfectly match the game's urban atmosphere. The sound effects for the automobiles and the landscape are also well-executed, contributing to the game's overall realism.

From the automobiles to the music, you're able to fully customize the experience to your preferences. The open world environment of the game also provides for flexibility of exploration and discovery.

One potential drawback is that the races can get repetitive after a few playthroughs, with some feeling overly similar.

You can't go wrong with one of the best racing games on the Dreamcast.

24. Headhunter

We found Headhunter to be a fun and exciting game to play. The game provides a wonderful blend of action, adventure, and mystery, and the intricate storyline keeps you involved and committed in the ending. We were extremely impressed by the overall look of the game, especially for a Dreamcast release.

This didn't come without its fair share of quirks The controls can be a little on the cumbersome side, making some of the more difficult aspects of the game annoying. The difficulty level can at times be uneven, with some portions of the game appearing unfairly difficult.

The graphics of Headhunter are quite stunning. The game makes use of the strong hardware of the Dreamcast to create aesthetically gorgeous settings and intricate character models. Headhunter's landscapes are varied and vivid, ranging from gritty city streets to futuristic laboratories, offering a fascinating backdrop to the game's action.

23. Confidential Mission

One of our favourite aspects of Confidential Mission is its compelling storyline, which keeps us coming back for more. The action is also fairly smooth, and we appreciated the game's many weapons.

We did find it to be a bit short as most arcade style games are and there really wasn't much more to do once we beat the game.

Overall, we had a good time playing Confidential Mission. It's a game that will keep you interested for hours because to its compelling storyline, outstanding graphics, and excellent sound effects.

While the game is brief, it's definitely worth a look if you enjoy action-packed shooting games.

22. Dead or Alive 2

Some people might wonder if Dead or Alive 2 vs 3 makes for the better experience. In our opinion, Dead or Alive 2 is a fantastic option for a fighting game on the Dreamcast.

We did find that the game's complex storyline and playing structure difficult to adjust to. Being set on a 3d pane, you'll need to take some getting used to. But when you do, boy you're in for a treat with the amazing gameplay and combos you can pull off.

Dead or Alive 2 is a fantastic game that immersed us in the gameplay experience from the moment we popped in the GDROM into our Dreamcast console. It's clearly no surprise that it's a favourite among many fighting game fans, with its unique gaming system, gorgeous graphics, and sound effects.

We recommend the game to everyone who like fighting games, even if the plot might be a little confused at times.

21. The Typing of the Dead

If you're a fan of lightgun games, you'll want to check out The Typing of the Dead. The concept is extremely similar, type to survive fast enough.

That's right, fight off hordes of enemies with the keyboard in your lap. It's clearly a pioneer of games of it's kind. Who would have thought a game revolved around teaching people how to type could be this much fun.

It's definetely an obscure Dreamcast game and it makes for a lovely experience from beginning to end. Even if you're not a fan of this style of game, at least you'll learn a new skill by trying it.

20. Sword of the Berserk: Guts' Rage

One of the aspects of Sword of the Berserk: Guts' Rage that I like was the story and how it intertwined with the gameplay mechanics. The fighting mechanism is simple, making the game more approachable to newbies.

The camera mechanics, on the other hand, weren't too great as you can't exactly turn properly without the second analog stick. They tried to make it work for these style of games on the Dreamcast but the controller wasn't up to par.

Sword of the Berserk: Guts' Rage is an intriguing game with fascinating gameplay and tempting graphics that are well-balanced with the game's story. Fans of the manga and anime series will find much to enjoy here, while newbies will appreciate the game's simple gameplay principles.

Sword of the Berserk: Guts' Rage is a game worth checking out, and it would be a shame to pass it up.

19. Samba de Amigo

Samba de Amigo's gameplay is built on rhythm and motion. Controlling a figure who shakes maracas to the beat of the music. The game tracks the player's motions using motion capture technology, creating a highly engaging and dynamic experience.

With so many difficulty levels to choose from and a wide range of tunes at your selection, we had a blast with this simple to pick up and play game.

Samba de Amigo's sound design is great, with a wide range of Latin American songs to choose from.

The game includes a wide variety of music, such as salsa, samba, and bossa nova, giving gamers a genuinely authentic and immersive experience.

18. ChuChu Rocket!

One of ChuChu Rocket!'s strongest points is its multiplayer mode, which is a lot of fun and offers a lot of replayability. The single-player campaign is also interesting and demanding. We did at times find that the game's lack of diversity and complexity to be a detriment.

ChuChu Rocket! is a timeless puzzle game that is still enjoyable today. It's a joy to play because of its engaging and difficult gameplay, appealing graphics, and playful sound design.

While the game's complexity is inadequate, the multiplayer mode alone is worth the price of entry. It's a game that should be in the library of each puzzle fan.

17. Space Channel 5

Space Channel 5's graphics are vibrant, colourful, and alive. The art style is so unique for a game of this timeframe, with vividly drawn character designs and landscapes that are a joy to explore. The animations are smooth and flawless, and the whole presentation contributes to the overall attractiveness of the game.

One of Space Channel 5's most notable aspects is its inventive use of music and rhythm-based gameplay. The tale is compelling, the characters are memorable, and the game is simply enjoyable to play. We did at times find the game's high difficulty curve annoying.

Overall, you can't go wrong with a pioneer in the rythm game department. It's bright, colorful and a ton of fun.

16. Ikaruga

Shmup fans are always wondering is ikaruga harder than touhou. Well, we don't seem to think so. The use of the swapping color mechanic that allows you to suck in enemy fire as energy and swap to do the same for the opposite color was fantastic.

We love how Ikaruga was one of the first of many arcade games that were truly a port on the home console. The Dreamcast was  the first of it's generation to make you feel like the arcade experience was truly brought home.

Ikaruga is a game that we'll ocassionally pick up, get a 1cc and put it back down. We highly suggest you give it a shot if you're a fan of shmups.

15. Virtua Tennis

Virtua Tennis has intuitive and natural controls that make playing feel intuitive and natural. The gameplay is fast-paced and enjoyable, whether you're serving an ace or returning a booming volley. A career mode is also included, which adds depth and replayability to the game.

The graphics in Virtua Tennis are remarkably good considering the game's age. The player models are detailed and dynamic, while the court environs are produced with great care. Overall, the aesthetics contribute to the game's immersive nature.

This is one of those games where you can play up to 4 players in a coop setting. We had a blast in a couch coop game with three of our pals. The addicting gameplay always makes someone scream out, one more!

14. Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike

One of the things that fans of the game appreciate is its depth and replayability. There's surely a tier of who's the better characters in the game (we're looking at you, Chun Li).

You can easily practice 3rd Strike for years and there's always someone who's going to be better than you at the game.

Luckily with advancements like Fightcade, you can play this online with a ton of your friends or just someone who's looking for a challenge. All with almost zero input lag using their connection.

13. Power Stone 2

Power Stone 2 takes everything that the original launch title brought to the table and amplifies it. For starters, there's now a multiplayer mode that you can battle off against 3 of your friends.

There's more characters, weapons to choose from and the levels are much more entertaining than the first 3d top down fighting game.

We don't see too many brawlers that put you in the top down perspective. Power Stone 2 is an excellent choice for a fighting game on the Dreamcast.

12. Crazy Taxi

What's there not to love about Crazy Taxi?

Listening to your favorite Offspring song, picking up pedestrians and driving them to their local KFC restaurant.

That's exactly the premise of the gameplay. Sure, it's not the deepest game by any means, but it's a ton of fun to play.

We loved the endless amount of routes you can take. Picking up the passengers and drop them off at a short distance to pick up some much needed time to let you continue was a blast to go through.

Crazy Taxi is a very unique concept, making it one of the best Dreamcast games ever.

11. Rez

Rez's graphics are stunning, with its distinct blend of minimalism and futuristic style generating an otherworldly environment. The game's use of colour and light effects is simply breathtaking, resulting in a seamless and immersive experience.

Rez's audio is just as spectacular as its images, with an expertly designed soundtrack that perfectly complements the game's aesthetics. The music is a perfect synthesis of electronic and traditional sounds, with a focus on rhythm and melody.

The overall sound effects are also amazing for the time, adding to the overall immersive gameplay experience.

10. Sonic Adventure

If we could go back to a time where the Dreamcast was brand spanking new and the kiosks had those colorful graphics on full display in Sonic Adventure, we totally would!

Sonic Adventure takes the world by storm and blasts Sonic into true 3D mode. The gameplay is still true to the games before it, with the emphasis on speed.

We loved how you were able to explore each of the worlds and loop through some of the faster sections in the game in quite the hurry.

Sonic Adventure brings us back to a simpler time, it's colorful, runs extremely well on the Dreamcast hardware and is a ton of fun.

9. Grandia II

Grandia II is one of those RPGs that's extremely different. Now there weren't many role playing games on the Dreamcast, but the ones that were available were heavy hitters.

Grandia II makes use of the fantastic turn based RPG elements where you're constantly moving around on the fighting field.

The characters were charming, the storyline makes for one epic experience and the gameplay is buttery smooth.

You won't feel like you have to constantly grind either, everything flows so naturally in Grandia II. This is one RPG you won't want to miss.

8. Resident Evil Code: Veronica

Resident Evil Code: Veronica's plot is interesting and entertaining. It expands on the previous titles' lore and introduces new characters and settings. The storyline of the game is well-written and engaging, with exciting plot twists and turns that keep players involved throughout.

Because Resident Evil Code: Veronica was released almost two decades ago, the images have aged slightly. However, the graphics are still outstanding, and the game's design and mood contribute to the horror theme effectively.

The tank controls aren't exactly modern, but they're still functional once you get used to them.

We loved the side storyline of Code Veronica and you'll enjoy it too if you're a fan of Resident Evil games.

7. Marvel vs. Capcom 2

If you're like us, you probably have the main jingle of the character select screen stuck in your head too right about now.

Marvel vs. Capcom 2 is a fantastic fighting game with a bunch of characters from both universes. You can seriously get lost with the amount of characters on screen here.

This was one of those arcade to home console smash hits that the Dreamcast had to offer. The port is absolutely perfect considering the hardware used in the arcades is almost identical to what was brought home in 99.

Marvel vs. Capcom 2 is a fantastic option for a head to head fighting game.

6. Capcom vs. SNK 2

Some people are always wondering what is Capcom vs SNK's best version. We believe that Capcom vs. SNK 2 is the ideal candidate on the Dreamcast. It runs so perfectly.

We loved how you got a blend of your favorite characters from the Street Fighter and SNK lineups. Not only that, but the style of gameplay that you can select from is also here. Leading to unqiue combos or super attacks that you can punish your enemy with.

The soundtrack is also very catching for a late 90s fighting game. What a fantastic time it was to be a fighting game fan.

5. Skies of Arcadia

Skies of Arcadia put you on an epic journey that allowed you to travel the skies. Along with your party you'll be set out where air travel is the main element to see.

The planet is divided into factions, and Vyse, the main character, is a young air pirate who sails the sky with his gang.

Vyse's on a serious quest to stop an evil empire from destroying the planet as the plot unfolds The characters are memorable and likeable, and the tale is beautifully crafted.

Seriously, we won't want to spoil too much that goes on in Skies of Arcadia. You'll have to experience this epic RPG for yourself.

4. Phantasy Star Online

PSO had outstanding graphics that were ahead of their time when it was introduced.

The game's art style is anime-inspired, and all of the landscapes, characters, and monsters are meticulously crafted. The game also includes dynamic lighting and weather effects to increase immersion.

PSO's multiplayer function, which lets users to team up and do tasks together, is one of its main strengths. This adds to the game's enjoyment, especially when played with companions.

Another plus is the game's distinct look and storyline, which distinguishes it in the crowded RPG market. Making Phantasy Star Online one of the best Dreamcast games available.

3. Jet Set Radio

What an unique concept the original Jet Set Radio was. Roam around on your roller skates completing for challenges.

Along the way, you'll unlock new characters and bring all new gameplay techniques throughout the game.

Beating the game was a ton of fun, with many different options and paths to choose from throughout the game.

The music is incredibly memorable and epic and the cel shaded art style still holds up today.

This is one experience you won't want to miss out on.

2. Soul Calibur

What's there not to like about the original Soul Calibur game?

It's a complete fighting game that was a launch title on the Dreamcast. It's quite the memorable experience for those who've watched it in person for the first time when it was released at a local video game store.

We loved the various gameplay modes, cast of characters and sound design. The fighting style is so addicting, you'll be begging for more combos once you learn the pacing of the game.

You could pick up Soul Calibur today, or even 20 years from now and be completely blown away, simply by how good it actually is.

1. Shenmue

Shenmue on the Dreamcast is a pioneer in the adventure game genre. Telling the storyline is such an epic experience. It's almost straight out of a movie scene the way the plot unfolds.

We loved the simplicity of going gambling, unwinding for a couple of rounds of the arcade port of Space Harrier and just hanging out in a local restaurant.

Shenmue blew us away at the time it was released. The epic storyline, super realistic graphics and gameplay were fantastic uses of the Dreamcast hardware.

You can't miss out on Shenmue and it's clear to see why it's the best Dreamcast game of all time.

Conclusion

The Dreamcast was a game console that was ahead of its time.

It had great visuals and music, as well as a big game catalogue that catered to a wide range of gamers.

Despite the fact that the Dreamcast system is no longer in production, the Dreamcast games are still pleasant to play today.

Some of the best Dreamcast games that have stood the test of time include Metropolis Street Racer, Headhunter, Confidential Mission, Dead or Alive 2, and The Typing of the Dead.

These games offer unique and fascinating gameplay experiences that will keep you occupied for hours.

While the Dreamcast was hampered by piracy and the lack of a DVD player, it is nevertheless fondly regarded by gamers.

1. Shenmue
2. Soul Calibur
3. Jet Set Radio
4. Phantasy Star Online
5. Skies of Arcadia
6. Capcom vs. SNK 2
7. Marvel vs. Capcom 2
8. Resident Evil Code: Veronica
9. Grandia II
10. Sonic Adventure
11. Rez
12. Crazy Taxi
13. Power Stone 2
14. Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike
15. Virtua Tennis
16. Ikaruga
17. Space Channel 5
18. ChuChu Rocket!
19. Samba de Amigo
20. Sword of the Berserk: Guts' Rage
21. The Typing of the Dead
22. Dead or Alive 2
23. Confidential Mission
24. Headhunter
25. Metropolis Street Racer