Here’s where I lose my credibility, folks! My taste in non-sports games is probably laughable to most serious gamers. For whatever it’s worth (nothing), here’s my ode to the other video games I’ve enjoyed the most throughout the years.
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sega Genesis
Released in 1991 by Sega
It’s remarkable that Sonic goes so damn fast, yet you don’t really feel out of control playing this game. The levels are straightforward and forgiving, only testing your patience here and there. I like the original the best because it’s easy and short enough to tackle in a reasonable amount of time.
Kid Chameleon
Sega Genesis
Released in 1992 by Sega
This platformer is friggin’ awesome, with such variety of difficult but short levels. Some are strategic, others are straightforward, some make you hurry, others go slow, some have a lot of combat, others have none. There’s a surprise around every corner. You do lots of jumping and breaking boxes (like Super Mario) and you change into characters with different abilities (like Mega Man). The downfall is that the game is so long and so difficult, but you have limited lives and can’t save your game. So, I strongly recommend playing it on Sonic’s Ultimate Genesis Collection on PS3 and Xbox 360, where you can save your progress, essentially giving you unlimited lives. It’s a great collection all around, including the Sonic series, Streets of Rage series, Golden Axe series, and more Genesis classics.
Tomb Raider
PlayStation 1, Sega Saturn, PC
Released in 1996 by Eidos Interactive
This game is tough on the eyes today, but it was impressive as hell back in the day. I love its exploration, puzzle solving, dizzying heights, and creepy vibes. Figuring out a level could be really satisfying. The original Tomb Raider definitely stands out among the series for its style and unique level designs.
Tomb Raider: Anniversary
PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSP, PC
Released in 2007 by Eidos Interactive
This is an ode to the original, but it looks 100 times better. Some parts are almost the same as the original, and others are completely new. Lara does a lot more shimmying on walls and flinging herself off horizontal bars like an Olympic gymnast, which gets pretty outlandish, but this is a great way to experience the original without hurting your eyes. Tomb Raider: Legend is also a really fun installment.
Thrasher Skate and Destroy
PlayStation 1
Released in 1999 by Rockstar Games
This skateboard game may have lousy graphics, but it’s got character. I find it relaxing to cruise around the levels and experience the simple skateboarding pleasures this game offers. See my full review of Thrasher Skate and Destroy.
Roller Coaster Tycoon
PC
Released in 1999 by Hasbro Interactive
This one is hardly a game, at least how I played it back in the day. I used a cheat for unlimited cash, but I still obeyed the laws of physics, creating coasters that give riders a thrill without making them vomit. It’s oddly addicting to piece together your coasters, integrate them with the environment, and fill in the rest of the park with kiddie rides, food stands, walkways, and scenery.
Mario Kart 64
Nintendo 64
Released in 1996 by Nintendo
This was my favorite racing game before I came across the next game on the list. There’s something just right about this installment of Mario Kart, with a nicely balanced set of tracks, perfect control, and good use of the N64’s graphical power.
Need for Speed: The Run
PS3, Xbox 360, PC
Released in 2011 by Electronic Arts
This is easily the most thrilling racing game I’ve played. You’re racing across the country from San Francisco to New York, one little bit at a time. The game never gets the least bit boring, mixing up types of tracks, race formats, and occasional police chases. The graphics are gorgeous and the action-movie music fits the intense vibe.