Got RetroArch setup and working, got a controller, got PS2, N64, SNES emulators currently but likely get all old systems at some point.
Recommendations for games you found worth goong back to?
Earthbound, GTA San Andreas, Mario 64, DK64, Gauntlet Legends
SNES - Act Raiser - It’s quite literally a mix of RTS and 2d action platforming. You build and manage your villiage while protecting it from monsters. Highly recommend!
N64 - Kirby 64 - Kirby is a game series that lets you eat enemies and gain their power. This one lets you combine powers! You can make fun combos, like rock + fire to make yourself a volcano, or electricity + bombs to make yourself into fireworks. Really fun and easygoing game! Worth playing through at least once.
PS2 - Parappa the Rapper 2 - A fun and weird game, Parappa 2 is a rhythm game where you have to repeat the raps your opponent dishes out using the face and L&R buttons. The setting and story make this game more than worth it, as you’ll be saving the town against shrink rays, a mad hairstylist, and a noodle-hungry maniac. It’s another fairly short game, you can beat it in two sittings if you’re good. There’s also a fun vs multiplayer mode.
I enjoy super mario world. Games primo mario action. Super mario RPG is great as well.
OOT and SM64 are great play throughs, and if you’re interested in learning some speed run tech it can expand the fun.
PS2, you gotta play some GTA vice city and San Andreas. Shadow of the colossus is great.
You don’t have to limit yourself to old games if you don’t want to. If you’re into Pokemon there are some pretty good Romhacks out there. I liked Unbound a lot and I’m playing Liquid Crystal at the moment.