The 1990s—a time of dial-up internet, iconic fashion, and groundbreaking entertainment. Let’s rewind and explore ten nostalgic gems that made the 90s so unforgettable. Get ready for a blast from the past!
Big Brother Magazine
Big Brother Magazine was the anti-establishment skater’s dream. Launched in 1992, it flipped the bird at corporate-run skate mags with its crude, in-your-face content. From controversial articles to bonkers stunts, it was a raw, uncensored reflection of 90s counterculture.
POGs
Who remembers collecting POGs? This game, with roots stretching back to an Edo Period game called Menko, became a global phenomenon in the 90s. From milk caps to licensed character designs, POGs were everywhere, until the market became flooded and the craze faded as quickly as it began.
Goldeneye 64
Goldeneye 64 redefined first-person shooters. Released in 1997 for the Nintendo 64, it broke away from fixed-rail formats and pioneered multi-screen deathmatches. Many gamers have fond memories of countless hours spent perfecting those no-scope headshots.
JNCOs
JNCOs, with their ridiculously wide legs, were a symbol of 90s rebellion. Founded by brothers Haim Milo Revah and Jacques Yaakov, the brand shattered denim norms. The wider the leg, the cooler you were. Though sales dwindled in the 2000s, these jeans remain a nostalgic icon.
Surge Soda
In the Cola Wars, Coca-Cola introduced Surge in 1997 to compete with Mountain Dew. Marketed as a “hardcore” soda, it used maltodextrin for an extra energy kick. Despite its initial hype, Surge was discontinued in 2003 but has seen limited re-releases, fueling 90s nostalgia.
Sony Playstation 1
The Sony Playstation, launched in Japan in 1994 and North America in 1995, revolutionized gaming. Born from a broken partnership with Nintendo, the PS1 took a gamble on 3D gaming and won. Its black disks and iconic games like Crash Bandicoot cemented its place in gaming history.
McDonald’s Big N’ Tasty
McDonald’s Big N’ Tasty was their attempt to dethrone Burger King’s Whopper. Debuting in 1997, it aimed to offer a similar experience but ultimately fell short. Despite being demoted to the dollar menu and eventually replaced, it remains a nostalgic menu item for many.
Pokemon
Originally Pocket Monsters, Pokémon was developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo in 1996. Beginning as a mini-comic, Game Freak evolved into a gaming giant. The initial Green and Red versions transformed into the international Red and Blue sensations, sparking a global phenomenon.
Titanic
James Cameron’s Titanic was a cultural reset. Released in 1997, it became the most expensive film ever made and a box office behemoth. From casting choices to on-set anecdotes, Titanic remains a cinematic touchstone of the 90s.
The O.J. Simpson Trial
The O.J. Simpson trial captivated the world. From the infamous car chase to the courtroom drama, it was a media frenzy. The trial’s live coverage and controversial verdict remain a significant cultural and historical moment.
The 90s were a unique blend of innovation, style, and unforgettable moments. These gems remind us of a time when life felt a bit simpler, and the future seemed full of endless possibilities.
What are your favorite 90s memories? Share your thoughts in the comments below!