Power-ups have long been a staple element in various video game genres, particularly in the older titles. These enhancements provide players with temporary boosts, helping maintain the game’s pace and excitement. While the concept of a power-up has evolved over time, several classic examples remain timeless.
In this article, we’ll explore and rank some of the most memorable power-ups in gaming history. To establish a fair criteria for our selection, we will adhere to the following guidelines: firstly, a power-up must be temporary, with limitations based on time or damage; secondly, weapons will not be categorized as power-ups; and finally, we will list only one power-up per game series, although differing entries within the same franchise are acceptable.
10 Super Mushroom
Super Mario Bros.
Among the most recognizable power-ups in gaming is the Super Mushroom from Super Mario Bros. Grabbing this item transforms tiny Mario into Super Mario, significantly boosting his capabilities. Interestingly, some fans have speculated that the Super Mushroom might actually be a transformed Toad, a theory stemming from its eyes and ability to move.
However, according to the game’s manual, Bowser cursed the residents of the Mushroom Kingdom, turning them into blocks and bricks. When Mario collects a mushroom from a question mark block, it’s implied that he’s receiving a grateful snack rather than consuming a sentient being—though whether that explanation holds is debatable. It’s safe to assume, nonetheless, that Super Mushrooms are not conscious entities.
9 Berserk
Doom
In the original Doom, while an arsenal of weapons takes center stage, there are notable power-ups that enhance the player’s abilities. One such standout is the Berserk power-up, a striking medkit concealed in a dark box. Upon activation, the player character enters a state of reckless fury, allowing them to deliver instant kills with each punch—albeit at the cost of losing weapon usage.
This power-up remains a classic feature throughout the Doom series, and in titles such as Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal, players gain access to unique and brutal finishing moves known as Glory Kills.
8 Invincible Candy
Kirby’s Dream Land
Kirby is famed for his versatile abilities, often relying on his Copy Abilities to confront foes. However, in his debut game Kirby’s Dream Land, he encountered his first true power-up: the swirling Invincible Candy. This delicious treat grants Kirby temporary invincibility, enabling him to glide through levels without concern for enemies.
Humorously, it is joked that this candy induces an overwhelming sugar rush, which is what fuels Kirby’s newfound invincibility.
7 I I
Crash Bandicoot
Aku Aku is the guiding spirit mask who aids Crash Bandicoot throughout his adventures. Encountering an Aku Aku mask provides Crash with temporary protection against a single hit from enemies and hazards; collecting additional masks grants extra lives and invulnerability for a limited duration. It’s worth noting that when playing as antagonists like Cortex, players are met with Aku Aku’s sinister sibling, Uka Uka.
6 Rambi
Donkey Kong Country
In the Donkey Kong Country series, Animal Buddies serve as primary power-ups, enhancing gameplay significantly. Rambi the Rhinoceros is the most famous of these companions, offering players a formidable charging attack. Notably, Rambi can outmatch many enemies and even break through barriers, although he can be dislodged upon taking damage from behind.
5 Power Pellet
Pac-Man
One of the earliest examples of a power-up is found in Pac-Man, through its signature Power Pellets. Each maze contains four Power Pellets, which, when consumed, allow Pac-Man to eat ghosts that pursue him. It adds a strategic element to gameplay, as players must carefully time their consumption of these pellets to evade danger.
Interestingly, Power Pellets also formed a crucial narrative thread in the 1982 animated series, where they were depicted as a power source for Pac-Man’s fictional city.
4 Power Sneakers
Sonic The Hedgehog
Given Sonic’s reputation for speed, it’s no surprise that his primary power-up is geared towards increasing velocity. First introduced in Sonic the Hedgehog, the Power Sneakers enable Sonic to reach maximum speed instantly, with a boost that lasts for approximately 20 seconds. During this time, the game’s music speeds up, adding to the overall fun and excitement.
3 Starman
Super Mario Kart
Power-ups vary across the Mario universe, and the Starman is particularly significant in the Mario Kart series. Utilizing a Starman in Super Mario Kart not only grants invincibility but also enhances speed, allowing players to traverse rough terrain effortlessly and collide with competitors. In traditional platformers, Starman might offer a brief respite, but in kart racing, it’s a game-changer.
2 Pizza Power
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time
For the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, pizza serves a vital role, providing energy during their arcade adventures. In Turtles in Time, players can find traditional healing pizza along with special boxes that bestow the powerful Pizza Power. When consumed, the pizza launches the turtle into a spinning attack for several seconds, effectively clearing out waves of enemies and scoring additional points.
1 Chateau Romani
The Legend Of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
Within the Legend of Zelda universe, milk acts as a versatile power-up, particularly in the 3D installments. In both Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask, a standard bottle of milk restores a few hearts. However, Chateau Romani, available from the Milk Bar in Clock Town, not only restores Link’s health entirely but also grants him unlimited magic for the duration of the three-day cycle—making it one of the most powerful consumables in the game. The exact nature of this milk remains a mystery, but it certainly packs a punch!
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