A game's era is often a topic of discussion among players and programmers alike, with 'Retro' being a term commonly used. However, defining what makes a game retro can be somewhat subjective, as it involves a mix of nostalgia, technical expertise, and design principles specific to a particular epoque.

Starting from the most obvious characteristic, audiovisual elements, art direction, and aesthetic play a significant role in identifying a classic game as retro. These may include pixelated graphics, with pixelated characters, simple movement sequences, and limited color ranges characteristic of older home consoles like the Sega Genesis. The iconic chiptune melodies composed using SID chips on the Amiga, the Sega Genesis' PCM sound effects, dendy online and the Super Nintendo's ADPCM audio compression are other indications of a bygone era.

Another essential aspect of retro games is gameplay simplicity. Games often rely on straightforward controls that guide players through levels, making it fun and engaging. This often manifests in platforming challenges, side-scrollers, turn-based combat systems, or endless challenge. These types of gameplay provide a sense of nostalgia and instant satisfaction.

Retro games frequently possess distinct personalities, captured through likable characters, iconic plots, and engaging soundtracks. Older games often had much more limited development teams and yet left their imprint through creative ways to reuse assets, simple but smooth animations, and colorful imaginative worlds.

One common trait observed in many retro games is a feeling of discovery or excitement whenever one discovers something new.

Furthermore, certain genres are traditionally associated with earlier eras. For instance, the early 8-bit home consoles' palette preference for more intense characters and actions heavily influenced the rise of side-scrolling beat-em-ups like Contra. Similarly, sports games such as Tecmo Super Bowl captured the exuberance of the late 1980s and early 1990s in their extreme and vibrant styles.

Finally, while nostalgic experiences tend to connect our perceptions of retro games to earlier systems like the Game Boy, contemporary developments in gaming have resulted in updated remasters of some of these titles. This provides gamers access to some of their favorite retro games but also a personal sentimental way to experience how the classic gameplay style has been preserved while improved.

Taking these retro characteristics together, we gain a insight into an complex past where art, innovation, sound, and expertise formed the foundation for rich, inclusive, emotional experiences, transcending abstract limitations. In terms of evoking that particular era's ambiance, influence, and charm, the characteristics outlined earlier should undoubtedly serve as enlightening recommendations for all who seek the unvarnished essence of 'retro' - within an ever-evolving gaming landscape.