My top 100 videogames of all time

[keena]

I made this list for a gaming forum I frequent. Feel free to either ignore it or share your comments.

100. - Street Fighter Alpha 3 - Playstation - 1999

Having never been a huge fan of fighting games, I've never really put a lot of time into learning combos or playing against friends. But I still really enjoy occasional games. Which is why this is at the bottom of the list. It’s a great game, but there are other fighting games that I enjoy more.

99. - Super Mario 64 - Nintendo 64 - 1996

I know some people are gonna be ticked at me putting this classic so low on the list, but I don't really care. I've always disliked 3D platformers, but I still can't deny that this one is really fun. Good, but overrated in my opinion.

98. - Halo 2 - Xbox - 2004

Not a spectacular sequel by any means, but I still enjoyed my trip through the single player game. I didn't see why people hated single player so much, and I didn't mind the cliffhanger ending. As for multiplayer, I'd probably like it more if I had friends to play with.

97. - Final Fantasy VII - Playstation - 1997

Way over-rated, but still a fun game today. Unfortunately the story, characters, and graphics have aged horribly (and weren't that great to begin with?). I still enjoy it enough for it to barely make the list, but other Final Fantasy games are better.

96. - Mario Kart: Double Dash!! - Gamecube - 2003

While it was disappointing in multiplayer (in my opinion), I still had a LOT of fun playing through on single player and co-op. While some tracks were pretty bland, others will amazingly designed (Bowser's Castle, DK Mountain). Not as good as the other Mario Kart's, but still a great game.

95. - Metal Gear Solid - Game Boy Color - 2000

One of my favorite handheld games. I'm still amazed at how they managed to put the entire story of the PS1 game into a game boy cartridge. I also think it's funner than the old NES games.

94. - Katamari Damacy - Playstation 2 - 2004

You all know why this is on the list. One of the quirkiest (is that how it's spelt?) games to come to our shores from Japan. Addictive gameplay, charming visuals (even if they're a little bland), and an AMAZING soundtrack.

93. - Ikaruga - Gamecube - 2003

Not nearly as good as Radiant Silvergun, but still a fun shmup. It's easily beatable, which is a plus to me since I suck at shmups.

92. - WORMS - Playstation/Saturn - 1996

An incredibly addictive multiplayer game. I spent hours playing this game with my friends. The sequel was good too, but I thought that it was too complicated whereas the first game is incredibly simple to play.

91. - Super Street Fighter II Turbo - SNES - 1993

I'm sure most people will think this is too low on the list, but like I said earlier, I've never been a big fan of fighting games. I still find it to be a great game though.

90. - Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons - 2001 - Game Boy Color

I liked Seasons better than Ages for some reason (reviewers said that Ages was the better game). It's not as good as other Zelda games, but still has the ingenious puzzles and gameplay that the series is well known for.

89. - Final Fantasy VIII - 1999 - Playstation

While generally hated for its flawed Junction system, I still liked FF8 more than its predecessor. I enjoyed the more realistic story and characters, and I thought the music and visuals were better than in FF7. Still not the best game in the series, but good enough for me.

88. - Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus - 2002 - Playstation

I've never been a fan of 3D platformers, but this one managed to draw me in like none before it. I even liked it better than Super Mario 64. The graphics are still amazing, and I love the mix of stealth and platforming.

87. - Star Fox 64 - 1997 - Nintendo 64

One of the first N64 games that I played. Since I hated the original SNES game I didn't expect much from SF64, but was pleasantly surprised. I liked how it had decent voice acting, and thought the branching paths encouraged more playthroughs than the original. The visuals also made the game better than the original in my opinion.

86. - Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo - 1997 - Playstation/Saturn

A great puzzle game that rips off Puyo Puyo. Sometimes the gameplay feels a little cheap since you can kill your opponent with one well placed combo, but I still have a lot of fun playing this with friends. It just doesn't compare to other games like Tetris or Pokemon Puzzle League.

85. - Shining Force II - 1993 - Genesis

One of my favorite Strategy RPGs. The story isn't very good, but I love the strategy involved in the battles, and the little animations for attacks are really cool.

84. - Sonic Adventure - 1999 - Dreamcast

I prefer this game to other 3D platformers because it doesn't encourage exploration or collecting (as long as you play as Sonic). I have fond memories of it since it was one of my first games on the Dreamcast, and I think the levels are a blast to speed through.

83. - Wario Ware: Twisted - 2005 - Game Boy Advance

For some reason I didn't care for the first Wario Ware, but I love this one. Go figure. I find that the amount of variety in the ways you twist the GBA is done in a way that doesn't get tiring and makes every mini-game unique. Good for when I want something to keep myself occupied for short times.

82. - Panzer Dragoon - 1995 - Saturn

A great on-rails shooter that was impressive when it was released in 1995, but now has been outdone by various sequels. Still, it's a good game overall and has an amazing soundtrack.

81. - Grandia - 1999 - Playstation

While I prefer the sequel, Grandia still manages to be an excellent RPG, mainly because of its awesome battle system and likeable characters and story. Unfortunately it's hurt by a crappy translation and voice acting, and confusing and repetitive dungeons.

80. - Tetris - 1988 - Multi

The puzzle game that started it all and just never gets old. It's the one game that you can keep playing years later and still get addicted to its gameplay. Still, I prefer other puzzle games that have deeper gameplay.

79. - Metroid Fusion - 2002 - Game Boy Advance

The first Game Boy Advance game to really impress me, Metroid Fusion took the fundimentals of Super Metroid and gave you new levels, abilities and a more in-depth story. Fusion might not be as good as the other games in the Metroid franchise, but it's still a great game.

78. - Halo - 2001 - Xbox

I know people won’t like me saying this, but I’ve always felt that Halo was over-rated. Sure, it’s an amazing shooter that set standards on home consoles, but I found that the game got old quite fast. Some of the levels were also quite generic and repetitious. Otherwise I enjoyed what I played. The story was well done and the gameplay was probably the best I’ve experienced in the FPS genre. Multiplayer is also quite fun, but I don’t have enough friends to enjoy it very much.

77. - Super Ghouls N Ghosts - 1991 - Super NES

Probably one of the most difficult games that I've ever played, SG&G is still incredibly fun if you have the patience to memorize levels and enemies. The graphics and music are still some of the best on the Super NES, and not being able to control your jumps like in other games causes a tension that other platform games lack.

76. - Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow - 2003 - Game Boy Advance

Definitely my favorite Castlevania game on GBA. It had the best graphics and gameplay of the three games on the handheld. I especially enjoyed the Pokemon-esque ability collecting. However, I felt that something was missing from the level design. A great game that pales in comparison to Symphony of the Night.

75. - Super Mario Bros. (All-Stars Version) - 1993 - Super NES

Probably the first game that I ever truly loved, Super Mario Bros has since been outdone by its various 2D sequels. While it isn't as fun as the later games, it's still fun in its simplicity.

74. - Axelay - 1992 - Super NES

Probably my favorite 16 bit shmup, Axelay mixes mode 7 heavy vertical levels with 2D horizontal levels. The graphics still hold up well and I really like the weapon system.

73. - Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil - 2001 - Playstation 2

A wonderful 2.5D platformer, this game reminds me of all the great platformers of the old days. The cel shaded graphics look great and the puzzles are well designed, and the gameplay is near perfect. It's been years since I've played such an addictive platform game.

72. - Suikoden - 1996 - Playstation

While the sequel is slightly better overall, the original Suikoden still holds a small place of my heart. Probably the first good RPG for the Playstation, it proved that you didn't need 3D visuals to make a 32 bit RPG. What it lacked in length, it made up with the large amount of characters, fast paced battles, and good story.

71. - F-Zero - 1991 - Super NES

One of my favorite racing games when I was a kid, F-Zero features amazingly fast racing action that keeps me on the edge of my seat. The game has smooth mode 7 graphics, great music, tight control, and a satisfying amount of tracks. The only problem is the lack of multiplayer.
70. - Klonoa: Door to Phantomile - 1998 - Playstation

One of the few platforming games that I played during the 32 bit era, Klonoa hooked me from the beginning with it's addictive 2.5D graphics and gameplay. While it's way too easy and cute, I still found it highly enjoyable.

69. - Astro Boy: Omega Factor - 2004 - Game Boy Advance

Probably the best 2D beat em up action game to come along since the 16 bit days, Astro Boy came out of nowhere to surprise anyone willing to try it. The graphics are the best the GBA has to offer, and there are enough levels and hidden characters to find to keep most people busy for two playthroughs.

68. - Rygar: The Legendary Adventure - 2002 - Playstation 2

Rygar has since been outdone by Ninja Gaiden and God of War, but that doesn't mean that it's not one of the best games of the current gen. The visuals and music are still really good, and swinging your discarmor at enemies and impaling them is surprisingly satisfying.

67. - Resident Evil 2 - 1998 - Playstation

The first survival horror game to really grab my interest, Resident Evil 2 took the gameplay introduced in the first game and added tons of action. The graphics have certainly aged and the voice acting still kinda sucks, but I still enjoy the story and gameplay, even if other games in the series are better overall.

66. - Project Gotham Racing 2 - 2003 - Xbox

I imagine PGR2 will soon be outdone by its soon to be released sequel, but until then it remains my favorite racing game. With a mix of arcade and simulation gameplay, it allows anyone from the serious racing fanatic to the racing newbie to get right into the game. The huge amount of tracks and cars (not to mention a great Xbox Live community) keeps your interest for months.

 

[keena]

65. - Panzer Dragoon Orta - 2003 - Xbox

Like any games in this wonderful series, Panzer Dragoon Orta has an atmosphere unlike any other game I’ve played. The graphics are among the best on the Xbox, the music is unique and relaxing, and the world that the game takes place in is truly mesmerizing. All these things come together to make a wonderful on-rails shooter that doesn’t quite match the overall brilliance of Panzer Dragoon Zwei.

64. - Contra III: The Alien Wars - 1992 - Super NES

One of the best action games created, Contra III really gets me on the edge of my seat.
I also think that it's the best co-op game out there (although Gunstar Heroes deserves mention for its awesome co-op mode). My friends and I have a blast playing through the game taking out baddies (and getting are butts kicked by the difficulty). If there’s one negative thing to say about the game, it’s the two mode7 levels. They feel out of place, tacked on, and are just not fun.

63. - Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes - 2004 - Gamecube

The Twin Snakes is a great remake of one of my favorite games. It adds gameplay features from MGS2, with the great story and characters of the original PS1 classic. Unfortunately the new gameplay doesn't really work in the old games' environments and the new voice acting isn't as good as in the original. I still managed to get a lot of enjoyment out of it though.

62. - Jet Grind Radio - 2000 - Dreamcast

Jet Grind Radio remains one of my most memorable Dreamcast experiences. From the first moment I played it I was blown away by it's cel shaded graphics and awesome soundtrack. The easy to learn gameplay and controls also adds to the experience.

61. - Vampire Savior - 1998 - Saturn (import)

Probably the funnest 2D fighting game that I've played, Vampire Savior is so flashy and has so many animations that I can't help but love it. I like the cast of characters and the backgrounds are a lot better than what Street Fighter III offers. I also like the fact that the final boss isn't a pain to defeat, which is something that I dislike about other 2D fighters.
60. - Streets of Rage - Genesis

I don't really have much to say about this one. It's a classic beat em up and I really enjoy playing it. It's also fun to play with a friend. Still not as good as Guardian Heroes though.

59. - Tetris Attack - 1996 - Super NES

In my opinion this is the greatest 2 player versus game ever made. I've yet to find a game that brings out as much heated rivalry and competition as this one. Nothing is more fun than pulling off a massive combo and dumping a ton of garbage blocks on your friend. If there is any complaint it’s that there is some slight slowdown when you pull off large combos.

58. - Grandia II - 2000 - Dreamcast

A large improvement over its predecessor, Grandia 2 was the first must buy RPG on the Dreamcast. Its graphics, gameplay, dungeons, and music are all improved over the first game. Unfortunately the story and characters aren't all that great. But that doesn't take away from what is one of the best RPGs on the Dreamcast.

57. - Super Smash Bros. Melee - 2001 - Gamecube

Still the best selling Gamecube game of all time, Super Smash Bros. Melee takes the formula introduced in the first game for N64 and improves it with refined gameplay, and an incredible amount of modes, characters, and levels. Especially fun if you have three friends to play with.

56. - Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time - 2003 - Multi

A wonderful adventure game that is similar to ICO, Prince of Persia: TSoT offers what is some the best platforming action in any next generation game. I even comes close to surpassing ICO despite the fact that the fighting is extremely repetitious. The story draws you in making you feel as if the Prince’s quest is your own and the puzzles are perfectly thought out, requiring you to think before every action. Prince of Persia is one of my favorite games of recent years.

55. - NiGHTS Into Dreams - 1996 - Saturn

One of the most magical games that I’ve played, NiGHTS feels similar to a Sonic game that’s been thrust into a 2.5D world (like Klonoa). Your character flies around a set path and you have a certain amount of time to complete the level. The graphics have aged, but still look pretty, the gameplay is very innovative, and the control is amazingly smooth. It’s a great game that was missed by many thanks to being released on the Saturn.

54. - Sin & Punishment - 2000 - Nintendo 64

The best N64 game to never come to America, Sin & Punishment is Treasure's 3D collaberation with Nintendo. The game's visuals have aged(what do you expect from the N64) and the music would be better in a porno, but the gameplay is solid and the control scheme is unique. Treasure's best 3D game.

53. - Resident Evil: Code Veronica - 2000 - Dreamcast

This is the game that Resident Evil 3 should've been. It had amazing visuals for the time, some of the best gameplay in the RE series(before RE4 came along), and the voice acting was actually decent for a change. It was also nice to get a Resident Evil game that wasn't less than 5 hours long.

52. - Psychonauts - 2005 - Xbox

The best 3D platformer that I've ever played. All the levels (with the exception of the Meat Circus) are brilliant, the control works well, the story is great (very Tim Burtonish), and I fell in love with the characters. One of my favorite games from the 128 Bit era.

51. - Chrono Trigger - 1995 - Super NES

Chrono Trigger is a fantastic RPG and one of the best games on the SNES. It has some of the best graphics on the console, one of the best soundtracks ever created, and a fast-paced story. Too bad Final Fantasy III outdoes it in nearly every category.

50. - ICO - 2001 - Playstation 2

A beautiful experience from start to finish, Ico is probably one of the most artistically brilliant games of this last generation. While it’s a short game with hardly any replay value, I found that its many fantastic parts were just too good for me not to include it on the list. The graphics are truly amazing and unlike anything I had seen at the time. I’ve never seen sunlight look so real in a game. I also enjoyed the way your relationship with Yorda works. Having to care for her really creates some intense moments, especially when you’re protecting her from the shadow creatures. It’s a shame that the game wasn’t very successful. It really is one of the best games on the PS2.

49. - Resident Evil - 2002 - Gamecube

Resident Evil is a great remake of the original PS1 classic. It not only upgraded the visuals, it also added new areas, enemies, and cut scenes. All the new content managed to make an aged game new again.

48. - Donkey Kong - 1994 - Gameboy

Donkey Kong for Game Boy is completely different from the original arcade classic. After the first few stages the game introduces tons of new stages that keep offering new puzzles that take lots of brainpower to figure out. One of the best games for the old Game Boy.

47. - Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker - 2003 - Gamecube

I'll just say it now before I go any further. I HATED the sailing in this game. Other than that big complaint, the game is still amazing overall. The dungeons are nearly as good as those found in OoT and LttP, and the graphic style is something no other game can match. It's just too bad about that sailing.

46. - Pokemon Puzzle League - 2000 - Nintendo 64

See what I said about Tetris Attack. The only reason this ranks higher is because it removes the slowdown from Tetris Attack and has more modes for single play.

45. - LUNAR: Silver Star Story Complete - 1999 - Playstation

If there is anything about Lunar that other games don't touch its the amazing characters and story. The characters here have more emotion than pretty much any other games' characters. Only FF6's cast matches them. The gameplay and pretty 2D visuals are also top notch and make it one of the best remakes.

44. - The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape From Butcher Bay - 2004 - Xbox

One of the darkest and most graphicly intense games that I've played in recent years, Riddick mixes stealth with action and a well told story to complete immerse the player in it's world. It also doesn't hurt that the graphics are some of the best on the Xbox.

43. - Kingdom Hearts - 2002 - Playstation 2

Most people dislike Kingdom Hearts for its flawed camera and clumsy battles, but I managed to overlook those flaws and enjoy the game for it's story, graphics, and lengthy quest. Not even the crappy gummi ship stages took away from the experience.

42. - Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask - 2000 - Nintendo 64

Probably the oddest Zelda game to be released, Majora's Mask might not be as good as Ocarina of Time, but it still stands on its own with its Groundhog Day style quest, various forms that you can change into and the usual brilliant world to explore. Unfortunately it was a little TOO odd, but there's no denying that it's a great game.

41. - Metroid: Zero Mission - 2004 - Game Boy Advance

Having never played the original Metroid, this remake was a completely new experience for me. It felt closer to the brilliance of Super Metroid than the previous GBA Metroid and despite the short length it was still one of my favorite games on the GBA.
40. - Panzer Dragoon II Zwei - 1996 - Saturn

The best of the on-rails style Panzer games, Zwei introduced branching paths, a morphing dragon, and the secrets filled Pandora's Box. It kept the amazing music, gameplay and visual style of the previous game yet managed to have more replay value due to the added features.

39. - Suikoden II - 1999 - Playstation

A beautiful 2D RPG that was overlooked by many people, Suikoden II is a wonderfully varied experience. With three different battle systems (party, strategy, and duel) and 108 characters to recruit, the game will keep you busy during its 30-40 hour play time. If you enjoy old school RPGs, then you should definitely try to experience this under-rated gem.

38. - Xenogears - 1998 - Playstation

Well known for its religious overtones and lengthy play time, Xenogears is still one of the most memorable RPGs that I've played. The mix of mech and character battles is nice, I love all the characters, and the story is amazing even though it's a little rushed during the 2nd disc. The soundtrack is also one of the best that I've heard.

37. - Soul Calibur - 1999 - Dreamcast

The best fighting game that I've ever played. Soul Calibur blew me away when the Dreamcast launched because of its amazing visuals(still pretty good even today), solid gameplay and large quest mode. I spent many months playing it with friends and unlocking secrets.

36. - Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic - 2003 - Xbox

The only Star Wars game to really impress me, KotOR's vast universe of worlds kept me busy for nearly two months with lots to do in each of the games worlds. The graphics might not be very impressive and I didn't really love the battle system, but the story, characters and overall gameplay still make it one of my favorite Xbox games.

35. - Guardian Heroes - 1996 - Saturn

Guardian Heroes is hands down the best beat em up ever created. The detailed 2D visuals, multiple characters, fighting game style moves and combos and numerous branching paths make for a game with tons of replay value that's even better with a buddy.

34. - Final Fantasy X - 2001 - Playstation 2

One of the first PS2 games that I really loved, FFX has detailed visuals, a great story, one of my favorite battle systems, and another amazing soundtrack. Too bad the game is so linear and the sphere grid leveling system is so flawed. Otherwise the game would be near perfect.

33. - Skies of Arcadia Legends - 2003 - Gamecube

One of my favorite RPGs from the current generation, Skies of Arcadia reminded me of a 128 bit FFVI. I really grew to love the small cast of characters, strategic airship battles, and the amazing world that consisted of floating islands in the sky. While many people dislike SoA for its repetitious battles, I loved every second of it. Here’s hoping that Sega makes a sequel.

32. - Dynamite Headdy - 1994 - Genesis

One of my favorite Genesis games, Dynamite Headdy is another classic from Treasure. It has all their trademark features. Awesome gameplay, bright graphics, numerous (and tough) bosses, and an awesome shooter stage. Definitely worth playing by anyone interested in 2D action games.

31. - Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap

I never expected a new handheld Zelda to come close to the overall quality of Link's Awakening, but this game managed to surprise me. Its dungeons, story, and gameplay is all superb. The only thing keeping it from being equal to Link's Awakening is the fetch quests involved with fusing minish stones.

 

[keena]

30. - Ninja Gaiden - 2004 - Xbox

While many people seem to think the game is too frustrating and generic, I found that Ninja Gaiden was a wonderful game that brought back memories of the "good old days" of gaming. Every enemy and boss has patterns that you can exploit, you just need practice and patience to proceed. I'll agree that the game is slightly generic since it borrows from many other games in the action genre, but overall I think it comes out on top and has set a new standard. The visuals are perhaps the best I’ve seen to date, and the games' pace doesn't slow down until the end.

29. - Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door - 2004 - Gamecube

I was surprised that I enjoyed this game so much since I felt underwhelmed when I played the first game on N64. I was so hooked by it's beautiful graphics, awesome battle system, and hilarious story that I didn't stop playing until I beat it after seven days. The best RPG that you can play on the Gamecube.

28. - Valkyrie Profile - 2000 - Playstation

One of the most innovative and unique RPG experiences, Valkyrie Profile features awesome 2D hand drawn visuals, an addictive battle system, non-linear gameplay, and a large cast of characters that grow on you even if they don't stay with you for long.

27. - Super Castlevania IV - 1991 - Super NES

I know a lot of hardcore Castlevania fans don't have much love for this game, but it's still one of my favorite games in the series. I think the level design, graphics, control, and gameplay is all top notch even if there are a few flaws. Although I never played the first three NES classics, so I might like them better if I played them.

26. - Mario Kart 64 - 1997 - Nintendo 64

One of the best games for Nintendo 64, MK64 is one of the most addictive multiplayer games ever made. My friends and I practically played the game for a year straight. The only thing that I would say is lacking about it is the horribly cheap and frustrating A.I. This game really made my blood boil (Although Double Dash is much worse for that in my opinion). Only kart racer that beats it is the original Super NES game.

25. - Chrono Cross - 2000 - Playstation

While Chrono Cross is a great RPG, I’ve always felt that it was slightly over-rated. I feel the game has too many characters and I find it hard to get to know them all. Otherwise the game lives up to its hype. The graphics are some of the best on the system (surpassed only by Vagrant Story), the music is one of the best scores in any game, the story is decent, and the battle system is innovative and fun.

24. - Metroid Prime - 2002 - Gamecube

I never thought this game would be good, let alone turn out to be a classic. It successfully took the gameplay of Super Metroid and transformed it into a beautiful 3D world.

23. - Super Mario RPG - 1996 - Super NES

A collaboration between Nintendo and Squaresoft, Super Mario RPG is one of the best games on the SNES. It takes the world of Mario and turns it into an addictive RPG with great graphics, music, and gameplay. The battle system is one of the best of any RPG. Battles never seem to get boring or drawn out because in order to do extra damage or have good defense against enemies attacks, you must have perfect timing. Although rather short for an RPG, Super Mario RPG is an experience that must not be missed.

22. - God of War - 2005 - Playstation 2

The best action game that I've played this generation, God of War has simply amazing PS2 visuals, awesome battles, and absolutely incredible worlds. I thought the entire games was perfect, even the few puzzles and small amount of bosses didn't annoy me.

21. - Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX - 1998 - Game Boy Color

By far the best handheld Zelda game, Link's Awakening took the gameplay and overall design of Link to the Past and introduced a world that is even larger than that SNES classic. It has all the great dungeons, puzzles, and gameplay that the series usually offers.
20. - Sonic CD - 1993 - Sega CD

Commonly referred as the greatest Sonic game ever, Sonic CD is undoubtedly the most unique and innovative game in the Sonic series. The levels are among the best designed in a 2D platformer and the bonus stages are awesome with their Super Mario Kart style feel. I still prefer Sonic 2 over Sonic CD though.

19. - Metroid Prime 2: Echoes - 2004 - Gamecube

I felt that Metroid Prime 2 was a little better overall than it's predecessor. The graphics are slightly improved, and it has that great design and gameplay that was introduced in the first Metroid Prime.

18. - Yoshi's Island: Super Mario World 2 - 1995 - Super NES

Probably the most innovative 2D platformer ever conceived, Yoshi’s Island takes the basic gameplay of Super Mario World and adds many new ideas. The graphics are among the most beautiful on the system and are very artistic. As always, this is another great Mario game.

17. - Gunstar Heroes - 1993 - Genesis

One of the best games on the Genesis, Gunstar Heroes has a lot in common with the Contra series, but is much more colorful and easier to play overall. Gunstar Heroes has an insane amount of things happening on-screen at once. There is hardly ever a time when there is not at least one enemy to dispose of. Just play through the mine cart level to see what I mean. One aspect of the game that shouldn't be missed is the excellent co-op mode. It's one of the best multiplayer modes that I've experienced. Just make sure that you’re not playing with someone who enjoys throwing you off ledges.

16. - Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater - 2004 - Playstation 2

MGS3 is what MGS2 should've been. Not only is it spectacular for gameplay and visuals, but it also has a great(and easier to understand) story, and what is the best boss that I've ever seen in a game. That boss fight alone makes it one of the best games that I've ever played. I also like the fact that the game is longer than the previous games in the series.

15. - Super Mario Kart - 1992 - Super NES

Still my favorite Mario Kart after all these years, the original game has an awesome battle mode (better than in MK64 imo), tight control, and the best tracks in the series. And of course there's the awesome feather powerup!

14. - Sonic the Hedgehog 2 - 1992 - Genesis

My favorite of the series, Sonic 2 has great level design (the best in the series in my opinion) and fast, addictive gameplay. Sonic 2 remains one of the most fun platformers that I've played. It’s surpassed only by Super Mario World and Super Mario 3. It was my most played game when I was a kid, and it's still a joy to play now. I know some people prefer Sonic CD and Sonic 1, but everyone has their own preference.

13. - Resident Evil 4 - 2005 - Gamecube

Undoubtedly the greatest game released on the Gamecube, RE4 takes everything you need in a Resident Evil game and adds the changes that have been needed since RE2. While the story is merely decent, the graphics, atmosphere, gameplay, and overall design is all top-notch. Hopefully RE5 will be just as big of a jump in quality.

12. - Dragon Force - 1996 - Saturn

Dragon Force is the greatest strategy game that I've ever played. I'm not a huge fan of Strategy games, yet DF hooked me from the start. Once I learned how to play I didn't stop playing for months. There's just something about the massive battles that keeps your attention for many hours.

11. - Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past - 1992 - Super NES

Really, what is there to say about this classic? Nearly everyone reading this has probably played the game to death and knows why it's so high on my list.
10. - Metal Gear Solid - 1998 - Playstation

I think Metal Gear Solid has the best story of any game. I know others won’t agree with me, but that’s how I feel. The voice acting is incredible, the plot twists sent shivers down my spine, the music is great, the characters are well developed and the gameplay is still amazing. MGS is one of the all time greats.

9. - Final Fantasy IX - 2000 - Playstation

For some odd reason, I skipped FF9 when it was first released. I didn't play through it until last year. After experiencing the game I have come to the conclusion that it is the best Final Fantasy since FFVI. It has an endearing cast, a great story, excellent visuals (for the time), and the usual great score that you can expect from Nobuo Uematsu. The best thing though, is the return to the old school setting. From the crystals, to the airships, and the return of the black mage, everything is a throwback to the older games in the series.

8. - Panzer Dragoon Saga - 1998 - Saturn

One of the most amazing RPGs created, Panzer Dragoon Saga was unfortunately made in very low quantities, leaving most people doomed to paying insane Ebay prices. For those who were able to find a copy, they got to experience a world unlike any other. Instead of being stuck on a path like the other games in the series, PDS takes away the on-rails gameplay of the previous games and it lets you explore the 3D environments. This really makes the game more immersive (if you can imagine that) than the other games in the series. It really is hard to explain how brilliant this game is. The battle system is perhaps the greatest ever designed. Every boss and enemy has a weak spot that you are able to exploit. Hopefully Sega will bring out a sequel, so that more people will be able to experience the wonderful world that was revealed in this game.

7. - Castlevania: Symphony of the Night - 1997 - Playstation

The best game in the series, Symphony of the Night is an incredibly deep platformer that borrows heavily from Super Metroid. What it lacks in story and voice acting (which is absolutely horrid) it makes up for in its detailed 2D visuals, haunting score, huge bosses, and excellent level design. The best feature (which I'm sure most people know of by now), is that the game doubles in length if you meet a certain requirement. This gives the game great replay value.

6. - Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time - 1998 - Nintendo 64

Zelda: OoT is probably the most well made game that I’ve experienced. While the graphics have aged slightly since its release, every other aspect is near perfect. The gameplay successfully took LttP and made an amazing 3D world. The dungeons are brilliantly designed, the music is amazing (as usual), and the battles are intense. There isn’t a thing that I dislike about this game. I’ll continue to replay this classic throughout my life.

5. - Radiant Silvergun - 1998 - Saturn

Probably the most well known import of all time, Radiant Silvergun is a game that most people will never have the chance to play thanks to its outragious price. Having spent the required amount of cash on it, I've concluded that it is not only the best shmup ever made, but also one of the best games period. The graphics are still incredibly good for being seven years old, the control is perfect, the weapons system is probably one of the best ever created, and the overall gameplay is perfect. I insist that anyone who is even remotely interested in shmups try to get a chance to play it.

4. - Super Mario Bros. 3 (All-Stars Version) - 1993 - Super NES

Super Mario Bros. 3 is my second favorite game in the series. I chose Mario World over this, but that doesn't mean that I like it any less. I love the level designs (although some levels are rather short) and the addictive gameplay. Throw in the multiple suits that give you different abilities and you have a masterpiece. Oddly enough, I never beat the game until a few years ago. I guess it's because I never owned an NES and I just never got around to playing through the game.

3. - Super Mario World - 1991 - Super NES

I really don't need to give an explanation for this game. I'm sure every one of you reading this knows exactly why it's on the list. As for its place when compared with the rest of the series, I'd say it slightly edges out Mario 3 as far as gameplay and fun factor. I still play this game at least once a year and it never gets old. There are basically no flaws whatsoever. The controls are as can be expected in a Mario game, the graphics are colorful and detailed, and the secrets are plentiful. It has everything that a Mario game needs.

2. - Super Metroid - 1994 - Super NES

I missed playing this until a couple of years ago. I must say I really missed out on a wonderful game. It's truly one of the greatest pieces of software I've ever had the pleasure of playing. The level design is perfect, the boss fights are as intense and strategic as any in the Zelda games, and the music and graphics make for an atmospheric experience. No matter how many times I play through this game, it never gets old. It's a masterpiece that deserves to be played by any who haven't experienced it.

1. - Final Fantasy III - 1994 - Super NES

This is my favorite game of all time. Final Fantasy III truly is an amazing experience. It has an amazing story and well developed characters (each with their own abilities). There are so many memorable moments, that it's hard to name only a few. But my favorite scenes are undoubtedly Kefka poisoning Doma Castle's water, Celes attempting to commit suicide after Cid's death, the wonderful ending, and the amazing Opera scene. The game also has the best soundtrack in the series, well balanced boss battles, and a ton of side quests. I also like the way that the game is linear for the first half of the game and from there the game lets you do things in any order that you like. In any case, anyone who has not experienced this game needs to give it a try.

 

[CyberPaladin]

You seem to have bias against PC games.

 

[keena]

I'm not much of a PC gamer so I didn't see any point in including PC games. The only PC games I've played to completion are Half-Life 2 and the Space Quest and King's Quest games. I can't exactly put classics like Command & Conquer, Starcraft, or System Shock 2 on my list when I haven't played them.

 

[peanutbutter12]

Chrono Trigger 51??? Personally, I thought it was much better than FF3.

The thing about top 10-100-anything is that no one will ever make one that people agree on. *shrugs* It's all personal experience.

CJ

 

[ravendta]

Your top 15 seems pretty dead-on as far as my tastes go, although Chrono Trigger woulda definitely been in my top 5.

 

[YouHaveNoIdea]

Halo 2 98th????????????????

Im pretty sure it was the biggest seller ever...and only 98th?

 

[HotRhymez]

I don't see any of the Grand Theft Auto games, so your list fails.

 

[pureredwhiteblu]

No PacMan? That started the whole revolution!

 

[Los]

You have too much time on your hands.

Fav 5:

Romance of the Three Kingdoms X
Final Fantasy IV
Final Fantasy VI
NCAA Football 2007
Halo 2

 

[Atlasraven]

Good list and a lot of great games there. It's bewildering to read you left out or biased toward a lot of the really good games out there. Paper Mario? Super Mario RPG? I rent those games just to laugh at how terrible they are. Gauntlet belongs somewhere on the list but at least you got Kotor.

 

[ravendta]

Halo 2 98th????????????????

Im pretty sure it was the biggest seller ever...and only 98th?

Biggest seller ever? Not quite. 98th is a good place for it. Repetitive, unimaginative, short, stale.

 

[TriptychR]

Good list and a lot of great games there. It's bewildering to read you left out or biased toward a lot of the really good games out there. Paper Mario? Super Mario RPG? I rent those games just to laugh at how terrible they are. Gauntlet belongs somewhere on the list but at least you got Kotor.

And I laugh at you for spending money to rent games that you just laugh at.

I love how people get so pushy whenever someone releases a list of their own opinions. I may not agree with everything on the list--mainly with placements--but overall it seems very solid to me. I did notice that there were no DS or PSP entries, though, which I'm guessing is because you don't own either. I'm sure i f you spend some time with those you'd have to move your list a little bit (with the DS more than the PSP).

 

[keena]

I made the list over a year ago, which is why there are no DS or PSP games on it. I COULD update it, but it was already a lot of work just to include the 10 or so games that I loved from the last year.

I don't own a PSP, but I do have a DS Lite and a handful of games. I'm not sure if I like many of them enough to put them on a list of my favorite games though. The only ones that come to mind are Castlevania: DoS and Elite Beat Agents. New SMB, Mario Kart DS, and Kirby were good games, but I lost interest in them quickly after beating them.

Also, I'm not going to bother defending myself and further to anyone else who complains about bias or the exclusion of your favorite games on my list. If you can't see that it's just a list of personal favorites, then I don't want to hear your complaints.

 

[The Lone Gunmen]

I've played 3 of those games. LOL.

 

[in2Nas]

Lot of big name classics not mentioned here...

Contra?
GoldenEye?
Gran Turismo?

But Sonic Adventure made the list?

 

[willard3]

Biggest seller ever? Not quite. 98th is a good place for it. Repetitive, unimaginative, short, stale.

I totally agree, but ouch.

Here's a list of my alltime favorites, in no particular order (I'm random and cannot decide on ranking...also, I'll be typing them as they come to mind).

Ice Hockey (NES)
Micro Machines (NES)
Tomb Raider (all, except Angel of Darkness...PC)
Xtreme Games (PS)
Battle Arena Toshinden (PS)
Marvel vs. Capcom (ARC)
Dragonball Z: Budokai 3 (PS2)
Starcraft (PC)
Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time (PC)
Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time (PC)
Indigo Prophecy (PS2)
Burnout 3 (Xbox)
Phantom Dust (Xbox)
Mercenaries (Xbox/PS2)
Def Jam: Fight for NY (Xbox/PS2)
God of War (PS2)
Shadow of the Colossus (PS2)
Dead Rising (360)
Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (PC)
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (360)
Condemned: Criminal Origins (360)
Neverwinter Nights (PC)
Halo (PC)
Thief (PC)
Thief II (PC)
Metroid Prime (GameCube)
Super Smash Brothers (N64)
Super Smash Brothers Melee (GC)
Goldeneye (N64)
Final Fantasy X (PS2)
Prince of Persia (all, PS2)
Max Payne (both, PS2)
Epic Pinball (PC)
Timesplitters Future Perfect (GC)
Red Dead Revolver (PS2)
Tekken Tag Tournament (PS2)
Madden 2002 (PS2)
Hot Shots Golf Fore! (PS2)
Raiden 2 (PS)
Shinobi (1 and 2, Game Gear)
Ninja Gaiden (Game Gear)
Advance Wars 2 (GBA)
Fire Emblem (GBA)
Megaman Battle Chip Challenge (GBA)
Golden Sun (both, GBA)
Advance Wars 3 (DS)
Metal Gear Acid 2 (PSP)
The Legend of Heroes (PSP)

And that's all I can think of for now.

 

[Breetai]

FFIII is a good pic for first.

Obviously you've never played an NES or a PC (!) on more than just on a passing occasion, or your list would be a bit different (Mega Man 2, Contra, Fallout 1&2, and Elder Scrolls game, and a few of the games on Williard's list are obvious omissions. Also, you choose the Playstation Lunar over the Sega CD Lunar! Blasphemy!).

Anyway, DEFINITELY get play Mega Man 2 somehow. It's just sweet. Also, if you haven't played the Sega CD version of Lunar: The Silver Star, it's worth it. I think it's better than the remake.

 

[keena]

If I updated my list (I made it about a year ago) then there would be a few PC and NES games on it. Half-Life 2, Grim Fandango, Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, King's Quest IV, Space Quest IV, and Mega Man 2 would probably make it.

The reason I didn't have any NES games on it was I never owned one. My parents got me an atari before the NES came out and just never got me one. I went from Atari to Sega Genesis and never got around to owning an NES since then.