Because I'm going to be installing and testing (and just goofing around with) the games on this list anyway and the fact that it's a bit difficult
to find 286-compatible games vs 386+, I figure I should document the process.
This list will be updated as I install new titles. I will include websites which host the games via hyperlinks at the top of the post someplace here.
Note: My 286-based PC is a terribly-low end 8 MHz cpu with 10 MHz add-in math co-processor attached.
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Alleycat [1983] - This one plays 100%. It's an extremely simple game and is intended to run on an 8088/8086 CPU, but luckily does not seem to be affected by the extra speed. It's also quite a hilarious game.
Astro Fire [1994] - This asteroids clone is one of my childhood favorites. Runs just fine, albeit with a bit of lag when a lot's on the screen.
Hugo's House of Horrors! & sequels [1990-93?] - These games have such a charmingly amatuer art style. They all work without any apparent lagging.
Commander Keen: Invasion of the Vorticons [chapters 1-3] [1990] - These games will probably also work on even slower hardware. They are 100% playable.
Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy + Aliens Ate My Babysitter! [1991] - Aside from very minor lag in highly active areas, these worked perfect on my 286.
Dracula in London [1988] - Very easy to run. This one performs just as it should. Not that it's- terribly fun or anything.
Captain Comic [1988] - This one is also quite playable. Apparently as playable as it gets. Controls are a bit goofy on the best of systems.
Word Rescue [1992] - A bit of a heavier load on my slow 286, but absolutely playable. This is a terribly charming little game I remember from childhood.
Duke Nukem [1991] - One of my DOS favorites. The crunchy sound, VGA graphics, responsive controls & inventory are top-notch. Runs perfectly!
Duke Nukem II [1993] - This one unfortunately, is just too tough for my wimpy 286. It DOES run but it looks like you need 16-25 MHz 286 CPUs as a minimum!
Zeliard [1988] - This game is 100% playable. I believe it was aimed at 8086/8088 CPUs as well. The graphics & music are great in this one.
Wolfenstein 3D [1992] - Surprisingly, if I lowered the screen size to about half, Wolf3d became quite playable on my weak old machine. Legendary game.
The Godfather [1991] - It works without any problem on a 286. Sidescroller shooter with great artwork but difficult controls. Worth trying, I'd say.
Mean 18 Golf [1986] - Honestly pretty fun. This game works without a hitch, amazingly without running extra-fast on a 286 vs its intended 8086/8088 system.
The Scoop [1989] - A very interesting mystery novel-style game. Also intended for 8086/88 type machines, runs just fine on my PC.
4D Sports Boxing [1991] - Worked alright. A little on the slow side, but intended for 8086/88 CPUs as well, so probably ok on all speeds of 286 CPUs.
Waxworks [1992] - Good spooky horror rpg of sorts with fantastic 256-color artwork & a nice soundtrack. Works fine on a 286. Probably want 12mhz+ for a smoother, more responsive experience.
Burger Time [1983] - This game does work, but you'll need something to slow the 286 down to perform like an 8088/86 as it is definitely speed-sensitive & rendered unplayable even on my 8mhz.
Clyde's Adventure [1992] - 286 compatible. Classic game.
Dangerous Dave [1990] - yep
Dangerous Daves [1992] - mhm
Street Rod I & II [1989] - boyeee
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Here's a new section with drivers and websites with drivers, software, etc. I use some of these myself.
CuteMouse - An extremely lightweight, compatible with all kinds of mice and many versions of DOS. Uses 4kb of your 640kb.
