Favorite games of all time!

Driven to action by the inevitable heap of end-of-year lists and countdowns, I decided to compile a list of my own favorite video games ever. So what if our industry swings and misses once in a while... with a host of masterpieces like these, few can argue that games are peerless titans in the world of entertainment media.

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10. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (PS3)

The first of three direct sequels on my list, Uncharted 2 doesn't pretend to be anything particularly groundbreaking. What makes it an entirely unforgettable experience is the astounding amount of polish that's gone into every detail. Action-packed story, charismatic performances, enjoyable gameplay, and technical efficiency all come together in a visually stunning package. 

9. Pokémon Red / Blue (GB)

No one could have imagined what this humble handheld adventure would go on to become. One mega-popular TV series, several feature-length movies, and oodles of spinoff games later, we're up to 493 (?) pocket monsters and growing fast. Despite all this, nothing compares to those first steps into the world of Pokémon and the distant dream of catching 'em all.

8. Mega Man 2 (NES)

This is the oldest entry on my list, not for any lack of quality on the NES, but because most games don't hold up two decades later. Mega Man 2, based around the simple yet genius mechanic of acquiring powers off fallen enemies, is different. This gem boasts distinctive, themed level designs and the most rocking soundtrack of all time, 8-bit or otherwise.

7. Harvest Moon (Multi)

Before The Sims, Animal Crossing, and Farmville made slogging through mundane chores cool, Harvest Moon gobbled up hours of my life like nobody's business. This series is addicting in the best sense of the word; it truly lulls you into a lazy world of farming, ranching, wooing, fishing... and dozens of other activities you'll find yourself caring about a little too much.

6. The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask (N64)

The masses loved Ocarina of Time. So the pressure was on when Nintendo released the next title in the Zelda series just over a year later. Set in an alternate world and lacking many traditional series standbys, Majora's Mask is a daring masterpiece in its own right, introducing unique transformation mechanics and a broad range of compelling characters.

5. Warcraft II: Tides of Darkness (PC)

I am not one of the 12 million who play World of Warcraft, but I too have fought tooth and nail for the fate of Azeroth. This terrific real-time strategy game establishes a deep, lush world, well-balanced units and remarkable sound design. Once the Battle.net expansion was released, players could team up or compete against their friends online (sound familiar?).

4. Red Dead Redemption (PS3 / X360)

Having played and enjoyed the Grand Theft Auto series, I thought I knew what to expect going into Rockstar's latest sandbox adventure. Maybe that's partly why I was blown away by the natural beauty of this open western environment, its atmospheric score and (most of all) the potency of a truly touching story. Red Dead Redemption is a deep and immersive experience like none other.

3. Final Fantasy X (PS2)

Carrying a popular series across generations is not easy, but Final Fantasy X did it with style, never shying from innovation with its endlessly enjoyable strategic battle system and a unique world within its genre. The game weaves a number of twists and turns into its lengthy plot, and shows a great deal of polish through an emotional soundtrack and breathtaking visuals.

2. Shadow of the Colossus (PS2)

I've spoken its praises many times before, because Shadow of the Colossus is an unparalleled experience that can only be described as art. Simultaneously haunting and thrilling from start to finish, the game loves to show rather than tell... It's simplistic storytelling style and fascinatingly empty world encourage you to truly contemplate your quest. Not many games can claim that.



1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64)

Sure, I love the Zelda series, and sure, Ocarina of Time stirs up a particularly potent dose of nostalgia... But damn, all bias aside, this is a great game.

If being named "Best Ever" in poll after poll isn't enough, play it for yourself. Gameplay mechanics are varied and fun, combat is truly exhilarating, the targeting and camera systems are fluid, the puzzles and dungeons are among the best the medium has to offer, the story is epic, the world is vast, the characters and races are memorable, the soundtrack is inspiring... There is just a jaw-dropping amount of brilliant content packed into this golden cartridge. Ocarina of Time is a gem, even among such a successful series.

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There you have it! As designers, it's important for us to look at what's out there, to analyze the masterpieces and determine what they got right. Taking inspiration from games that have come before is vital in our quest to push the medium to its limits.

Just for kicks, here are some honorable mentions that didn't quite make my list:

• Resident Evil 2
• Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
• Okami
• Final Fantasy IX
• Tenchu: Wrath of Heaven
• Halo: Combat Evolved
• Super Smash Bros.

I'd love to hear your opinions  (either on the games listed or your own favorite titles) so be sure to leave a comment!