Sun, sound of waves, warm sand… and nice retro pixels! To celebrate the summer solstice, here’s a selection of ten games that breathe vacation vibes. Beaches, convertibles, surfing or jet skiing: these video game classics evoke carefree summer days and flip-flop gaming sessions. Ready to dive back into your summer memories in 8, 16, or 64-bit style?

Out Run – SEGA, 1986 – Arcade

Developed by Yu Suzuki for SEGA AM2, Out Run is the very embodiment of the 80s summer fantasy: a convertible Ferrari Testarossa, a blonde passenger, palm-lined roads, and a legendary soundtrack composed by Hiroshi Kawaguchi. A global success at release, the game made arcade history with its branching road system, its "Mediterranean vacation" aesthetic, and its chill vibe long before the term was popular.

Windjammers – Data East, 1994 – Neo Geo

Behind its somewhat quirky sports game appearance, Windjammers gained cult status thanks to its fast-paced gameplay and flashy style straight out of the 90s. The concept is simple: two opponents throw a frisbee on a rectangular court, like Pong on steroids. The vibe is undeniably summery: beaches, deck chairs, sweaty crowds, and hyped-up characters. The game was rediscovered thanks to its competitive scene before enjoying a revival with a sequel in 2022.

California Games – Epyx, 1987 – Commodore 64, Atari, Lynx, Mega Drive...

Developed by Epyx, this game compiles several mini-games inspired by popular sports on the US West Coast: BMX, surfing, skating, frisbee... All soaked in a postcard-like Californian atmosphere. California Games was a huge hit on microcomputers, especially on the Commodore 64. Its Mega Drive version is often considered the most polished.

Wave Race 64 – Nintendo, 1996 – Nintendo 64

The first truly convincing 3D jet-ski game, Wave Race 64 was praised for its revolutionary water physics. Developed by Nintendo EAD, it offers breathtaking maritime races between tropical beaches, ports, and misty bays. The atmosphere is sunny, the waves realistic, and the sense of speed exhilarating.

Super Mario Sunshine – Nintendo, 2002 – GameCube

Mario in shorts with a water backpack, on a paradise island called Isle Delfino: Super Mario Sunshine is probably the most "vacation" episode of the saga. Developed by Nintendo EAD, it divided opinions at release, but its summery vibe and water-cleaning gameplay make it a unique experience, now widely appreciated.

Beach Spikers – SEGA AM2, 2001 – Arcade, GameCube

Less known, Beach Spikers is a women's volleyball game developed by SEGA AM2. First released in arcades, then on GameCube, the game shines with its sunny graphics and simple but effective gameplay. A refreshing, fun, and rare title.

T&C Surf Designs: Wood & Water Rage – Atlus, 1988 – NES

This NES game lets you skate or surf in a vibe directly imported from Californian culture. Based on a real surf brand, with cartoon characters and a flashy aesthetic, the game became cult despite its difficulty.

Paperboy – Atari Games, 1985 – Arcade, NES, Master System...

Deliver newspapers by bike in a quiet neighborhood under the sun, while avoiding dogs, cars, and absurd obstacles. Paperboy evokes American suburban summers. Its arcade cabinet with bike handlebars and numerous ports make it a memorable classic.

Pokémon Snap – HAL Laboratory, 1999 – Nintendo 64

In Pokémon Snap, you explore a tropical island aboard a rail-bound vehicle to photograph Pokémon in their natural habitat. Paradise-like settings, zen atmosphere, and originality make it a cult title, perfect for a calm summer session.

Parappa the Rapper 2 – NanaOn-Sha, 2001 – PlayStation 2

This crazy rhythm game plunges you into a cartoonish, musical universe with ice cream, heat, and summer vacations. Less known than the first episode, it remains a colorful pop treat perfect for summer.

Of course, this list is neither exhaustive nor objective; we all have our own memories of “summer holidays.” I could also have mentioned Crash Bandicoot with its tropical setting, especially the first installment (and what about CTR!), Donkey Kong, GTA Vice City, or even Final Fantasy X with a very summery atmosphere. And you probably have even more fitting examples!

🎮 And you, which retro games remind you of summer?
A memory of a gaming session between swims? A console taken on vacation? Tell us in the comments or on social media!