There are a lot of games but only some stand out because these are games that break rules, think out of the box and ever so often make a grown man cry. This is our list of games that you must play before you die, and in case our list doesn't include your Japanese Turn-based-RPG titled "Voyage into the Nostalgic Summer of Redemption", just add it in the comments below and we will include it in our next list. Do keep in mind that the games are not in a ranked order and I have tried my best to mix the platforms, genres and time period.
Mario
The grandaddy of great gaming, Mario deserves a mention in every gamer's list. Mario is a huge commercial success on every platform, right from the 8-bit consoles to the current master of home consoles, the Nintendo Wii. Some of the best games in the series are Mario Bros (NES), Mario Cart on the Nintendo DS and Mario Galaxy on the Nintendo Wii.
Contra
Konami has many games to its credit but Contra is probably the best of the lot. This simple 2D side scroller is still one of the most additive games of all time, and remains one of my favorite co-op experiences ever. The sci-fi weapons, amazing level design and great boss fights make Contra a memorable game.
Okami (PS2)
Okami is one of those rare games that make you think and connect with you emotionally. Its storyline, highly inspired visuals and the subtle yet mesmerizing soundtrack make Okami a very special game. This is a game that takes some time getting used to, but once you get the basics right, there is a ton of great gameplay to be enjoyed.
Solider of Fortune
This was a game that stirred up a lot of controversy for its dismemberment system wherein you could blow up individual limbs of your enemies. This game also boasted of a great plot, some really awesome cutscenes and great weapons. SOF was a true FPS but it was new and innovative, unfortunately the sequels couldn't live up to the original.
Medal of Honor Allied Assault
A true gem in World War Shooter genre, MOHAA is a landmark in gaming. This is an authentic world war experience that is largely responsible for converting millions of gamers into virtual world war veterans.
Far Cry
The surprise hit in the monster year of 2004, Far Cry is FPS redefined. Superb visuals, smart AI, an open world system plus middle age hero in a floral shirt make Far Cry a unique game. The same year saw the launch of Doom 3 and Half Life 2, but Far Cry stood its ground and proved to be a worthy adversary in the battle for FPS supremacy.
The Sims
You can love them or hate them but you can't ignore Will Wright's Sims. These tiny creatures are a virtual representation of us and our daily activities. They work, they eat, they live as we see fit. This small act of playing God led to mammoth sales and a cult following amongst PC gamers, proving once again that creativity and a huge marketing budget can work wonders.
MDK2
Bioware may be known for its RPGs but they are also the brilliant minds behind MDK2. The original game did pretty well, but it was Bioware that took MDK2 to a whole new level. The game's character art, humor, visuals and gameplay were all distinct and entertaining. Here's hoping for a sequel.
Age of Empires: Age of Kings
This is one product Microsoft games should be proud of, as AOE: Age of Kings was a masterpiece. This RTS game boasted of great gameplay in campaign mode as well as multiplayer and superior graphics. The sheer size of battles and army units made AOE: Age of Kings an instant hit with RTS folks. Unfortunately, Microsoft shut down Ensemble studios, which means no more AOE for the fans.
Need For Speed (Series)
Let me be upfront, the recent NFS games suck but there was a time when NFS was the best racing game on any platform. The wonderful NFS II SE, the highly addictive NFS: Hot Pursuit, the skill-seeking NFS: Porsche and the ultimate NFS: Most Wanted are games in the series that must be played. EA hear me out, give me back the good ol' NFS.
These are just 10 games, the list is much bigger with some of the more legendary titles yet to be named. Please add your favorite games in the comments below so that we can add those in our next list.
