3. Battletoads (Tradewest)
The designers at Rare were either mad scientists bent on breaking our spirits or freakin' geniuses testing our physical limits when they produced Battletoads on the NES. Maybe it's both. Either way, this wild platforming game has several tasks for you and a friend to complete, including speeder bike chases, snake riding, beating up baddies and surfing. Few have seen the game's conclusion.

2. Ghouls n' Ghosts series (Capcom)
Ghosts n' Goblins is without question one of the most difficult video game series of all time. Its lead character, Arthur, valiantly attempts to save his love, only to die repeatedly at the hands of numerous monsters. Super Ghouls n' Ghosts for the SNES is a real test, requiring you to go through the game twice before it ends. Many a controller died beating that one.

1. Ninja Gaiden series (Tecmo)
Finally, we come to the series that will bring you to your knees and make you cry for mercy. Since its debut on the NES, Ninja Gaiden introduced tough enemies and even tougher bosses. Over the years, it's only gotten harder. Ninja Gaiden Black is ridiculous with its enormous list of challenges to complete and tricky bad guys. Ninja Gaiden II on the Xbox 360 only increased our stress levels, with monsters so vicious we punched holes through walls