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Bubble Bobble is an all-time arcade classic that made the (100) rounds on just about every console in some fashion. Taito saved the best version for the Master System, doubling the length and adding a lot of new content. It remains one of the best two-player cooperative experiences on the hardware, and any fan of old school, single-screen games should give it a try.
The Game Gear is beginning to get more aftermarket releases, and one you should definitely look out for is Dracula’s Castle. It’s a Japanese, single-screen, action/maze game that is simple enough to get into quickly but that will become quite challenging over the course of its 32 stages. The lack of a password features hurts it somewhat, but there’s still a lot of fun to be had here, and you don’t need to know Japanese to enjoy it!
Lode Runner is one of the most widely-ported games of all time, and the SG-1000 version is among the best. Sega did an excellent job of making the game fit on its console and even included a neat level editing feature. If you’re looking for a cool rendition of Doug Smith’s classic title to play on console, then this might be one you try.
As a precursor to Taito’s Bubble Bobble series, Chack’n Pop is a great little maze game that far too few people have had the chance to play. It’s one of the great number of fun SG-1000 titles that don’t get enough love, and it’s entirely playable in English.
The SG-1000 had some fun games that too few people outside its native Japan have had the chance to experience. Compile’s Hustle Chumy is one title that deserves a second look, with its solid blend of old school arcade action and great presentation. It’s a game you’ll find yourself coming back to often.