Translation guide
A video game from an older generation, often played for nostalgia. In Japanese, the concept is expressed through specific terms rather than a single direct translation.
Referring to a game from a past console generation, often played for nostalgia.
The most direct and common loanword for 'retro game'. Widely understood, especially among gamers.
週末はよくレトロゲームをプレイしています。
I often play retro games on weekends.
Literally 'old game'. A natural, everyday way to refer to older games without using loanwords.
昔のゲームは今のゲームより難しいと思う。
I think old games are harder than modern games.
Emphasizes the nostalgic feeling. 'Natsukashii' means 'nostalgic' or 'dear to one's heart'.
この懐かしいゲームをまたやりたい。
I want to play this nostalgic game again.
Loanword 'classic game'. Used occasionally, but 'retro game' is more common.
クラシックゲームのコレクションを集めています。
I collect classic games.
Specifying a game from a particular retro platform like Famicom or Super Famicom.
Attach the console name to 'no geemu'. For example, 'Famicom no geemu' means 'Famicom game'.
ファミコンのゲームを集めるのが趣味です。
My hobby is collecting Famicom games.
Adds 'retro na' before the console name for emphasis.
レトロなスーパーファミコンのゲームが好きです。
I like retro Super Famicom games.
A new game designed to look or play like an old game.
Means 'retro-style game'. Used for modern games with a retro aesthetic.
最近のインディーゲームにはレトロ風のゲームが多い。
There are many retro-style games among recent indie games.
Specifically refers to pixel-art games. 'Dotto-e' means 'pixel art'.
ドット絵のゲームが好きで、よくプレイしています。
I like pixel-art games and play them often.
The word 'retro' (レトロ) is commonly used in Japanese to describe old-fashioned things, not just games. You can say レトロな雰囲気 (retro atmosphere) or レトロなデザイン (retro design).