So, You Want to be an Imagineer - Season 19 Hype Thread

Tegan pilots a chicken

Tegan pilots a chicken

Sharpie Queen 💜
Premium Member
F2B5DA75-5073-4C7C-B79C-D11597F9706C.png


……ha!

It’s time once again for everybody’s 4th favorite summer Imagineering game, TTF!!!

This go around, I wanna know your favorite portable video games!

And this time, we’re expanding the top four to a TOP SIX!!

For the purposes of this discussion topic, we’re talking about games that are played on uniquely portable consoles, with removable cartridges/discs. That means no Tiger electronic games, no Nintendo Game and Watch, and no Nintendo Switch.

Here are my top 6:


6. New Super Mario Bros (Nintendo DS)

The return of Mario to 2D platforming after a nearly 15 year hiatus! And what an absolute joy this game is! To this day it’s fun to replay it from start to finish. I found the level design to be clever and fun, the new power ups to be mostly enjoyable to use, the difficulty curve is very well balanced, and the little gimmicks such as star coins are a welcome addition. And the game sold like 30 million copies so I’m clearly not the only one who absolutely loved it!

5. Mario & Luigi Superstar Saga (Gameboy Advance)

I am a sucker for any Mario themed turn based RPG! I find the characters and stories to be incredibly charming, and surprisingly deep at times. The first three Paper Mario games actually made me cry! The Mario & Luigi series is a little more lighthearted in nature. Don’t get me wrong, there is still a great story at work, but there is also a great deal of levity, and that really makes these games stand out. Controlling both Bros at the same time is a fantastic mechanic that works effortlessly on the GBA’s simple two face button/two shoulder button controls. I had an absolute blast playing through this and cannot recommend it enough!

4. Metroid Zero Mission (Gameboy Advance)

As the title suggests, this is the original Metroid adventure remade for the GBA. And it is a monumental step up in every way imaginable. The NES classic, while historically significant, is nearly unplayable by modern standards. Zero Mission fixes all of that. Obviously there are significant graphic and sound upgrades, but it goes so much deeper than that. Samus gains many new abilities as established in subsequent titles, many of the rooms have been totally redesigned, there are multiple additional bosses, and the story has been dramatically expanded. And I nearly had a panic attack the first time I ventured into the depths of Tourian. I have replayed this game multiple times, and probably will again ahead of Metroid Dread.

3. Metroid Fusion (Gameboy Advance)

This may just be the most terrifying entry in the entire mainline franchise. Fusion deviates slightly from the norm in Metroid games as the story unfolds in a very linear fashion. But there is still a heavy element of exploration, and it is possible to uncover certain power ups earlier than you’re supposed to. However, my experience with the linear story was absolutely gripping. I felt a true sense of unease that often turned into outright panic and fear throughout my first play through. There were moments when I had chills. Even the on screen dialogue is presented in such a way that the entire experience feels ominous, like something terrible could happen at any moment. Because it can! This game is best experienced late at night in the dark with zero distractions. It was such a rush the first time I played through it that I immediately started a new file and played through it again!

2. Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World (Gameboy Advance)

When I was a very tiny child, Super Mario World for Super Nintendo was my favorite video game of all time, and remained in that position for two decades. There is something indescribably charming and endearing about the SNES’s 16-bit graphics and sound that I don’t think quite carries over the same to previous or subsequent console generations; it’s just quintessential “video game” in the most classic way possible. This remake takes everything that was absolutely wonderful about the original game and amplifies it. I was skeptical at first that the handheld version would be able to live up to my boundless admiration for the home console version, but all of my fears quickly subsided! This is my favorite way to experience my first favorite game! And it feels just as fulfilling to beat SMW on GBA as it does on SNES.

I said Super Mario World was my favorite game of all time for most of my life. I also said that this is my favorite way to experience the game. So why is it number 2? Because my favorite game of all time is number 1.

1. Metroid: Samus Returns (Nintendo 3DS)

Metroid II on Gameboy took everything great about the first NES game and made it better, creating a larger, but more sinister world to explore that becomes more terrifying the further you progress. The Gameboy’s visual and audio limitations only add to the dreadful atmosphere. Many years later, Nintendo gave the classic a remaster for the 3DS, and it is an absolute blast!

The gameplay itself is a riot, with Samus gaining some brand new abilities, including a series of counter attack which can be used in close quarters combat, as well as a range of powerful beam weapons and suit upgrades.

Some of the atmosphere of the original Metroid II is lost here, as Nintendo did want this title to appeal to newer players as well. But they more than make up for it with a plethora of new boss fights, and standard enemies.

One subtle detail of Metroid II that helps create the dreadful atmosphere is the absence of living creatures as Samus ventures further into the Metroid nest. By the final stages, the only living things anywhere around are Metroids. And they are terrifying!

In Samus Returns, the final levels are structured more like a standard Nintendo action platformer with a gauntlet of baddies to defeat near the end of the main portion of the game. However what makes up for this is the “Metroid counter” at the bottom of the screen, which serves as a radar of sorts, it’s beeping increasing in frequency as you get closer to one of the creatures.

And, the sense of fear, panic, and dread becomes all too real when Samus finally enters the Metroid nest. The battle with the Queen Metroid is vastly upgraded from the original, as she is now one of the most challenging bosses in any Nintendo game.

But the real reason this game is my number one is because of the special moment that follows that battle. A moment that is essentially the apex of the entire franchise. I won’t spoil it here, in case anyone wants to experience this game and story for themselves prior to Metroid Dread, but I will say that I flat out ugly cried. I uncontrollably sobbed and also felt the most incredible and genuine sense of accomplishment and also relief at getting to this moment. And every detail that follows for the remaining portions of the game, and the subtle details that change on the games menu screen afterwards just serve to reinforce that unfathomable moment of pure bliss.

Some people might scoff at the idea of playing Metroid for the story. But I digress. The Metroid games feature elements of action, exploration, and horror, but dig a little deeper, and the Metroid games are truly about something else entirely; motherhood. I won’t go into any further details here, but I sincerely invite anyone who has not played through the mainline Metroid franchise to do so and experience it for yourselves.

The correct order is Zero Mission, Samus Returns, Super Metroid, Other M, Fusion, with the forthcoming Metroid Dread to serve as the end of this story arc which all revolves around the pivotal, apex moment that takes place in Samus Retuns, my favorite video game of all time.

What are your top six?
 
Orange Cat

Orange Cat

Well-Known Member
Tegan pilots a chicken said:
View attachment 567190

……ha!

It’s time once again for everybody’s 4th favorite summer Imagineering game, TTF!!!

This go around, I wanna know your favorite portable video games!

And this time, we’re expanding the top four to a TOP SIX!!

For the purposes of this discussion topic, we’re talking about games that are played on uniquely portable consoles, with removable cartridges/discs. That means no Tiger electronic games, no Nintendo Game and Watch, and no Nintendo Switch.

Here are my top 6:


6. New Super Mario Bros (Nintendo DS)

The return of Mario to 2D platforming after a nearly 15 year hiatus! And what an absolute joy this game is! To this day it’s fun to replay it from start to finish. I found the level design to be clever and fun, the new power ups to be mostly enjoyable to use, the difficulty curve is very well balanced, and the little gimmicks such as star coins are a welcome addition. And the game sold like 30 million copies so I’m clearly not the only one who absolutely loved it!

5. Mario & Luigi Superstar Saga (Gameboy Advance)

I am a sucker for any Mario themed turn based RPG! I find the characters and stories to be incredibly charming, and surprisingly deep at times. The first three Paper Mario games actually made me cry! The Mario & Luigi series is a little more lighthearted in nature. Don’t get me wrong, there is still a great story at work, but there is also a great deal of levity, and that really makes these games stand out. Controlling both Bros at the same time is a fantastic mechanic that works effortlessly on the GBA’s simple two face button/two shoulder button controls. I had an absolute blast playing through this and cannot recommend it enough!

4. Metroid Zero Mission (Gameboy Advance)

As the title suggests, this is the original Metroid adventure remade for the GBA. And it is a monumental step up in every way imaginable. The NES classic, while historically significant, is nearly unplayable by modern standards. Zero Mission fixes all of that. Obviously there are significant graphic and sound upgrades, but it goes so much deeper than that. Samus gains many new abilities as established in subsequent titles, many of the rooms have been totally redesigned, there are multiple additional bosses, and the story has been dramatically expanded. And I nearly had a panic attack the first time I ventured into the depths of Tourian. I have replayed this game multiple times, and probably will again ahead of Metroid Dread.

3. Metroid Fusion (Gameboy Advance)

This may just be the most terrifying entry in the entire mainline franchise. Fusion deviates slightly from the norm in Metroid games as the story unfolds in a very linear fashion. But there is still a heavy element of exploration, and it is possible to uncover certain power ups earlier than you’re supposed to. However, my experience with the linear story was absolutely gripping. I felt a true sense of unease that often turned into outright panic and fear throughout my first play through. There were moments when I had chills. Even the on screen dialogue is presented in such a way that the entire experience feels ominous, like something terrible could happen at any moment. Because it can! This game is best experienced late at night in the dark with zero distractions. It was such a rush the first time I played through it that I immediately started a new file and played through it again!

2. Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World (Gameboy Advance)

When I was a very tiny child, Super Mario World for Super Nintendo was my favorite video game of all time, and remained in that position for two decades. There is something indescribably charming and endearing about the SNES’s 16-bit graphics and sound that I don’t think quite carries over the same to previous or subsequent console generations; it’s just quintessential “video game” in the most classic way possible. This remake takes everything that was absolutely wonderful about the original game and amplifies it. I was skeptical at first that the handheld version would be able to live up to my boundless admiration for the home console version, but all of my fears quickly subsided! This is my favorite way to experience my first favorite game! And it feels just as fulfilling to beat SMW on GBA as it does on SNES.

I said Super Mario World was my favorite game of all time for most of my life. I also said that this is my favorite way to experience the game. So why is it number 2? Because my favorite game of all time is number 1.

1. Metroid: Samus Returns (Nintendo 3DS)

Metroid II on Gameboy took everything great about the first NES game and made it better, creating a larger, but more sinister world to explore that becomes more terrifying the further you progress. The Gameboy’s visual and audio limitations only add to the dreadful atmosphere. Many years later, Nintendo gave the classic a remaster for the 3DS, and it is an absolute blast!

The gameplay itself is a riot, with Samus gaining some brand new abilities, including a series of counter attack which can be used in close quarters combat, as well as a range of powerful beam weapons and suit upgrades.

Some of the atmosphere of the original Metroid II is lost here, as Nintendo did want this title to appeal to newer players as well. But they more than make up for it with a plethora of new boss fights, and standard enemies.

One subtle detail of Metroid II that helps create the dreadful atmosphere is the absence of living creatures as Samus ventures further into the Metroid nest. By the final stages, the only living things anywhere around are Metroids. And they are terrifying!

In Samus Returns, the final levels are structured more like a standard Nintendo action platformer with a gauntlet of baddies to defeat near the end of the main portion of the game. However what makes up for this is the “Metroid counter” at the bottom of the screen, which serves as a radar of sorts, it’s beeping increasing in frequency as you get closer to one of the creatures.

And, the sense of fear, panic, and dread becomes all too real when Samus finally enters the Metroid nest. The battle with the Queen Metroid is vastly upgraded from the original, as she is now one of the most challenging bosses in any Nintendo game.

But the real reason this game is my number one is because of the special moment that follows that battle. A moment that is essentially the apex of the entire franchise. I won’t spoil it here, in case anyone wants to experience this game and story for themselves prior to Metroid Dread, but I will say that I flat out ugly cried. I uncontrollably sobbed and also felt the most incredible and genuine sense of accomplishment and also relief at getting to this moment. And every detail that follows for the remaining portions of the game, and the subtle details that change on the games menu screen afterwards just serve to reinforce that unfathomable moment of pure bliss.

Some people might scoff at the idea of playing Metroid for the story. But I digress. The Metroid games feature elements of action, exploration, and horror, but dig a little deeper, and the Metroid games are truly about something else entirely; motherhood. I won’t go into any further details here, but I sincerely invite anyone who has not played through the mainline Metroid franchise to do so and experience it for yourselves.

The correct order is Zero Mission, Samus Returns, Super Metroid, Other M, Fusion, with the forthcoming Metroid Dread to serve as the end of this story arc which all revolves around the pivotal, apex moment that takes place in Samus Retuns, my favorite video game of all time.

What are your top six?
Click to expand...
In No Particular Order

1. New Super Mario Bros. DS: Gotta Agree With You There. Despite The Title Of The Overall Franchise Being Considered A Joke Today, Looking At This Isolated From It‘s Successors It Was A Very Good Evolution Of The Franchise & It‘s Overall Just A Fun Time.

2. Tomodachi Life: I Like Watching The Funny Pop Culture Characters Say The Funny Things I Make Them. Needs A Switch Port With New Mii Maker & Y’know Letting Me Have Gay Miis Would Be Nice.

3. Mario Party DS: It’s Mario Party, On The Ds, & I Can Play As Yoshi, Good Game.

4. Super Mario Land 2: Is Still One Of The Most Memorable 2D Mario Games & Also I Don’t Know Much About The First One But I‘d Like A Third.

5. Plants Vs. Zombies (DS): Not Exclusively Portable But While Still Being The Same Game That Happens To Be One Of My Favorite Games Of All Time But Also Different Enough

6. Tetris: Tetris
 
Disney Warrior

Disney Warrior

Well-Known Member
1-6 in no particular order:
1. Pokemon Omega Ruby: a remake of an already great game
2. Pokemon White 2: amazing
3. Pokemon Ultra Sun: awesome
4. Pokemon Platinum: great
5. Pokemon HeartGold: best Pokemon game ever
6. Mario Kart 7: awesome (I haven’t played MKDS, I don’t have it)
(note: ironically I’m not a Zelda fan even though Link is my pfp, I just think he fits the “Disney Warrior” name best)
 
DashHaber

DashHaber

Well-Known Member
Tegan pilots a chicken said:
View attachment 567190

……ha!

It’s time once again for everybody’s 4th favorite summer Imagineering game, TTF!!!

This go around, I wanna know your favorite portable video games!

And this time, we’re expanding the top four to a TOP SIX!!

For the purposes of this discussion topic, we’re talking about games that are played on uniquely portable consoles, with removable cartridges/discs. That means no Tiger electronic games, no Nintendo Game and Watch, and no Nintendo Switch.

Here are my top 6:


6. New Super Mario Bros (Nintendo DS)

The return of Mario to 2D platforming after a nearly 15 year hiatus! And what an absolute joy this game is! To this day it’s fun to replay it from start to finish. I found the level design to be clever and fun, the new power ups to be mostly enjoyable to use, the difficulty curve is very well balanced, and the little gimmicks such as star coins are a welcome addition. And the game sold like 30 million copies so I’m clearly not the only one who absolutely loved it!

5. Mario & Luigi Superstar Saga (Gameboy Advance)

I am a sucker for any Mario themed turn based RPG! I find the characters and stories to be incredibly charming, and surprisingly deep at times. The first three Paper Mario games actually made me cry! The Mario & Luigi series is a little more lighthearted in nature. Don’t get me wrong, there is still a great story at work, but there is also a great deal of levity, and that really makes these games stand out. Controlling both Bros at the same time is a fantastic mechanic that works effortlessly on the GBA’s simple two face button/two shoulder button controls. I had an absolute blast playing through this and cannot recommend it enough!

4. Metroid Zero Mission (Gameboy Advance)

As the title suggests, this is the original Metroid adventure remade for the GBA. And it is a monumental step up in every way imaginable. The NES classic, while historically significant, is nearly unplayable by modern standards. Zero Mission fixes all of that. Obviously there are significant graphic and sound upgrades, but it goes so much deeper than that. Samus gains many new abilities as established in subsequent titles, many of the rooms have been totally redesigned, there are multiple additional bosses, and the story has been dramatically expanded. And I nearly had a panic attack the first time I ventured into the depths of Tourian. I have replayed this game multiple times, and probably will again ahead of Metroid Dread.

3. Metroid Fusion (Gameboy Advance)

This may just be the most terrifying entry in the entire mainline franchise. Fusion deviates slightly from the norm in Metroid games as the story unfolds in a very linear fashion. But there is still a heavy element of exploration, and it is possible to uncover certain power ups earlier than you’re supposed to. However, my experience with the linear story was absolutely gripping. I felt a true sense of unease that often turned into outright panic and fear throughout my first play through. There were moments when I had chills. Even the on screen dialogue is presented in such a way that the entire experience feels ominous, like something terrible could happen at any moment. Because it can! This game is best experienced late at night in the dark with zero distractions. It was such a rush the first time I played through it that I immediately started a new file and played through it again!

2. Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World (Gameboy Advance)

When I was a very tiny child, Super Mario World for Super Nintendo was my favorite video game of all time, and remained in that position for two decades. There is something indescribably charming and endearing about the SNES’s 16-bit graphics and sound that I don’t think quite carries over the same to previous or subsequent console generations; it’s just quintessential “video game” in the most classic way possible. This remake takes everything that was absolutely wonderful about the original game and amplifies it. I was skeptical at first that the handheld version would be able to live up to my boundless admiration for the home console version, but all of my fears quickly subsided! This is my favorite way to experience my first favorite game! And it feels just as fulfilling to beat SMW on GBA as it does on SNES.

I said Super Mario World was my favorite game of all time for most of my life. I also said that this is my favorite way to experience the game. So why is it number 2? Because my favorite game of all time is number 1.

1. Metroid: Samus Returns (Nintendo 3DS)

Metroid II on Gameboy took everything great about the first NES game and made it better, creating a larger, but more sinister world to explore that becomes more terrifying the further you progress. The Gameboy’s visual and audio limitations only add to the dreadful atmosphere. Many years later, Nintendo gave the classic a remaster for the 3DS, and it is an absolute blast!

The gameplay itself is a riot, with Samus gaining some brand new abilities, including a series of counter attack which can be used in close quarters combat, as well as a range of powerful beam weapons and suit upgrades.

Some of the atmosphere of the original Metroid II is lost here, as Nintendo did want this title to appeal to newer players as well. But they more than make up for it with a plethora of new boss fights, and standard enemies.

One subtle detail of Metroid II that helps create the dreadful atmosphere is the absence of living creatures as Samus ventures further into the Metroid nest. By the final stages, the only living things anywhere around are Metroids. And they are terrifying!

In Samus Returns, the final levels are structured more like a standard Nintendo action platformer with a gauntlet of baddies to defeat near the end of the main portion of the game. However what makes up for this is the “Metroid counter” at the bottom of the screen, which serves as a radar of sorts, it’s beeping increasing in frequency as you get closer to one of the creatures.

And, the sense of fear, panic, and dread becomes all too real when Samus finally enters the Metroid nest. The battle with the Queen Metroid is vastly upgraded from the original, as she is now one of the most challenging bosses in any Nintendo game.

But the real reason this game is my number one is because of the special moment that follows that battle. A moment that is essentially the apex of the entire franchise. I won’t spoil it here, in case anyone wants to experience this game and story for themselves prior to Metroid Dread, but I will say that I flat out ugly cried. I uncontrollably sobbed and also felt the most incredible and genuine sense of accomplishment and also relief at getting to this moment. And every detail that follows for the remaining portions of the game, and the subtle details that change on the games menu screen afterwards just serve to reinforce that unfathomable moment of pure bliss.

Some people might scoff at the idea of playing Metroid for the story. But I digress. The Metroid games feature elements of action, exploration, and horror, but dig a little deeper, and the Metroid games are truly about something else entirely; motherhood. I won’t go into any further details here, but I sincerely invite anyone who has not played through the mainline Metroid franchise to do so and experience it for yourselves.

The correct order is Zero Mission, Samus Returns, Super Metroid, Other M, Fusion, with the forthcoming Metroid Dread to serve as the end of this story arc which all revolves around the pivotal, apex moment that takes place in Samus Retuns, my favorite video game of all time.

What are your top six?
Click to expand...
My top 6 portable games:

  • Mario and Luigi: Superstar Saga
  • Tetris
  • Advance Wars
  • WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgame$
  • Pokemon Pinball: Ruby and Sapphire
  • Game and Watch Gallery 4
 
TheOriginalTiki

TheOriginalTiki

Well-Known Member
WarioWare Inc. (Gameboy Advance) - Such a wildly unique way to handle a mini-game collection. To this day my first time playing a round of it sticks out in my brain as one of my all-time great gaming memories. Appeals to my more simplistic, arcade-y sensibilities as a gamer to a T.

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening (Gameboy) - Honestly this and Wind Waker are my favorite Zelda games, and the island theme between them is no coincidence. I just get way more drawn into a smaller, more intimate setting and I think it's a ton more evocative than the more traditional fantasy tropes the series usually plays around with. I think Link's Awakening shines for a casual gamer like myself specifically because of its simplicity. It's one of the few Zelda games I don't get actively lost in.

Lumines (PSP) - Digital. Crack. One of my very first gaming "Addictions". The Switch version is still one of my most played Switch games. This is pretty much as close to a proper "Tetris 2" as were going to get as far as being a true evolution of the drop-box puzzle genre. The visuals as just the pure definition of eye-candy and how the music interacts with the gameplay is just sublime.

Pokemon Pinball (Gameboy) - The catching Pokemon mechanic translates incredibly well into a Pinball game. As a more casual gamer I definitely lean into the Pokemon spin-offs more than the mainline series, so as a kid I can easily say this was one of my most played Gameboy carts. The mechanics still work darn well and I'd be very happy if Nintendo did a true follow-up to it (and...you know, actually had more than three tables for the new game which is inherently NOT in Nintendo's style right now...but that's a different story :p )

Kirby's Canvas Curse (Nintendo DS) - This is THE best use of the stylus on any DS game as far as I'm concerned. I think Kirby really shines when the gimmick of the platform is put on full display and Canvas Curse is the best example of that. I remember back in the day being blown away at just how crisp and colorful the pixel art was. While it's obviously still on the easy side, the stylus mechanic definitely adds a level of engagement and challenge that's a far cry from the pure vanilla experience of a Star Allies or even a Triple Deluxe.

Pokemon Trading Card Game (Gameboy) - THE most under-rated Pokemon game. It's such a great tool towards teaching you how to actually play the trading card game and getting booster packs after winning matches and holding your breath hoping for foil cards really replicated the adrenaline rush of the late 90's Pokemon card boom. Far from being a tutorial, this is a really great streamlined "boss rush" version of a mainline Pokemon adventure that has all the excitement of collecting badges building up to a series of battles with elite players. Many a long car ride were spent with this one. Very fond memories. Tell me this isn't some catchy music?
 
JokersWild

JokersWild

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Tegan pilots a chicken said:
View attachment 567190

……ha!

It’s time once again for everybody’s 4th favorite summer Imagineering game, TTF!!!

This go around, I wanna know your favorite portable video games!

And this time, we’re expanding the top four to a TOP SIX!!

For the purposes of this discussion topic, we’re talking about games that are played on uniquely portable consoles, with removable cartridges/discs. That means no Tiger electronic games, no Nintendo Game and Watch, and no Nintendo Switch.

Here are my top 6:


6. New Super Mario Bros (Nintendo DS)

The return of Mario to 2D platforming after a nearly 15 year hiatus! And what an absolute joy this game is! To this day it’s fun to replay it from start to finish. I found the level design to be clever and fun, the new power ups to be mostly enjoyable to use, the difficulty curve is very well balanced, and the little gimmicks such as star coins are a welcome addition. And the game sold like 30 million copies so I’m clearly not the only one who absolutely loved it!

5. Mario & Luigi Superstar Saga (Gameboy Advance)

I am a sucker for any Mario themed turn based RPG! I find the characters and stories to be incredibly charming, and surprisingly deep at times. The first three Paper Mario games actually made me cry! The Mario & Luigi series is a little more lighthearted in nature. Don’t get me wrong, there is still a great story at work, but there is also a great deal of levity, and that really makes these games stand out. Controlling both Bros at the same time is a fantastic mechanic that works effortlessly on the GBA’s simple two face button/two shoulder button controls. I had an absolute blast playing through this and cannot recommend it enough!

4. Metroid Zero Mission (Gameboy Advance)

As the title suggests, this is the original Metroid adventure remade for the GBA. And it is a monumental step up in every way imaginable. The NES classic, while historically significant, is nearly unplayable by modern standards. Zero Mission fixes all of that. Obviously there are significant graphic and sound upgrades, but it goes so much deeper than that. Samus gains many new abilities as established in subsequent titles, many of the rooms have been totally redesigned, there are multiple additional bosses, and the story has been dramatically expanded. And I nearly had a panic attack the first time I ventured into the depths of Tourian. I have replayed this game multiple times, and probably will again ahead of Metroid Dread.

3. Metroid Fusion (Gameboy Advance)

This may just be the most terrifying entry in the entire mainline franchise. Fusion deviates slightly from the norm in Metroid games as the story unfolds in a very linear fashion. But there is still a heavy element of exploration, and it is possible to uncover certain power ups earlier than you’re supposed to. However, my experience with the linear story was absolutely gripping. I felt a true sense of unease that often turned into outright panic and fear throughout my first play through. There were moments when I had chills. Even the on screen dialogue is presented in such a way that the entire experience feels ominous, like something terrible could happen at any moment. Because it can! This game is best experienced late at night in the dark with zero distractions. It was such a rush the first time I played through it that I immediately started a new file and played through it again!

2. Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World (Gameboy Advance)

When I was a very tiny child, Super Mario World for Super Nintendo was my favorite video game of all time, and remained in that position for two decades. There is something indescribably charming and endearing about the SNES’s 16-bit graphics and sound that I don’t think quite carries over the same to previous or subsequent console generations; it’s just quintessential “video game” in the most classic way possible. This remake takes everything that was absolutely wonderful about the original game and amplifies it. I was skeptical at first that the handheld version would be able to live up to my boundless admiration for the home console version, but all of my fears quickly subsided! This is my favorite way to experience my first favorite game! And it feels just as fulfilling to beat SMW on GBA as it does on SNES.

I said Super Mario World was my favorite game of all time for most of my life. I also said that this is my favorite way to experience the game. So why is it number 2? Because my favorite game of all time is number 1.

1. Metroid: Samus Returns (Nintendo 3DS)

Metroid II on Gameboy took everything great about the first NES game and made it better, creating a larger, but more sinister world to explore that becomes more terrifying the further you progress. The Gameboy’s visual and audio limitations only add to the dreadful atmosphere. Many years later, Nintendo gave the classic a remaster for the 3DS, and it is an absolute blast!

The gameplay itself is a riot, with Samus gaining some brand new abilities, including a series of counter attack which can be used in close quarters combat, as well as a range of powerful beam weapons and suit upgrades.

Some of the atmosphere of the original Metroid II is lost here, as Nintendo did want this title to appeal to newer players as well. But they more than make up for it with a plethora of new boss fights, and standard enemies.

One subtle detail of Metroid II that helps create the dreadful atmosphere is the absence of living creatures as Samus ventures further into the Metroid nest. By the final stages, the only living things anywhere around are Metroids. And they are terrifying!

In Samus Returns, the final levels are structured more like a standard Nintendo action platformer with a gauntlet of baddies to defeat near the end of the main portion of the game. However what makes up for this is the “Metroid counter” at the bottom of the screen, which serves as a radar of sorts, it’s beeping increasing in frequency as you get closer to one of the creatures.

And, the sense of fear, panic, and dread becomes all too real when Samus finally enters the Metroid nest. The battle with the Queen Metroid is vastly upgraded from the original, as she is now one of the most challenging bosses in any Nintendo game.

But the real reason this game is my number one is because of the special moment that follows that battle. A moment that is essentially the apex of the entire franchise. I won’t spoil it here, in case anyone wants to experience this game and story for themselves prior to Metroid Dread, but I will say that I flat out ugly cried. I uncontrollably sobbed and also felt the most incredible and genuine sense of accomplishment and also relief at getting to this moment. And every detail that follows for the remaining portions of the game, and the subtle details that change on the games menu screen afterwards just serve to reinforce that unfathomable moment of pure bliss.

Some people might scoff at the idea of playing Metroid for the story. But I digress. The Metroid games feature elements of action, exploration, and horror, but dig a little deeper, and the Metroid games are truly about something else entirely; motherhood. I won’t go into any further details here, but I sincerely invite anyone who has not played through the mainline Metroid franchise to do so and experience it for yourselves.

The correct order is Zero Mission, Samus Returns, Super Metroid, Other M, Fusion, with the forthcoming Metroid Dread to serve as the end of this story arc which all revolves around the pivotal, apex moment that takes place in Samus Retuns, my favorite video game of all time.

What are your top six?
Click to expand...
In no particular order:

1. Mother 3 - My second favorite RPG behind Earthbound. It'd probably be my favorite if I could actually beat it. The difficulty spike is wild. It's a bit annoying and sketchy to get your hands on a copy of since it never released in the US, but it's more than worth it.
2. Super Mario 64 DS - This might be an unpopular opinion, but I think this is the definitive way to play Super Mario 64. The added characters, 30 extra stars, minigames, and the refined controls really sets the remake above the original.
3. The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap - Another unpopular opinion - I think this is my favorite 2D Zelda game, and it's a crime that so many people slept on it. Absolutely worth trying out.
4. WarioWare Touched (with WarioWare Twisted as a very close second) - These were two of my favorite games growing up. I just have to give Touched the edge for variety.
5. Animal Crossing New Leaf - The definitive Animal Crossing. As much as I adore New Horizons, it gets a bit muddled with seasonal updates. Most everything available in New Horizons was available Day 1. Also I could still see my boy Kapp'n. And Resetti, for that matter.
6. Super Mario Land 2: The 6 Golden Coins - Not only was this the first game to (properly) introduce Wario, but this has some of the most creative level design in any Mario game. It's such a bizarre game, and I love it.
7. Elite Beat Agents - I thought of this after writing my number 6, and I don't expect anyone else to mention it. One of my favorite rhythm games. It's so bizarre, and almost too Japanese, which really sets it apart from the other rhythm games of the time. Second shout out to Rhythm Heaven.

I know sure there are others. I think Mario Kart DS is still my favorite Mario Kart. 8 might beat it, but it's been a while since I've played either. I also tried thinking of a PSP game to add, but there weren't many that stood out, as much as I genuinely enjoyed playing it.
 
MickeyWaffleCo.

MickeyWaffleCo.

Well-Known Member
In the Parks
No
JokersWild said:
Super Mario 64 DS - This might be an unpopular opinion, but I think this is the definitive way to play Super Mario 64. The added characters, 30 extra stars, minigames, and the refined controls really sets the remake above the original.
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So I never played the original, but the controls for the DS version are just infuriating for me to use. They’re always either too sensitive or too imprecise. 😅
 
Chaos Cat

Chaos Cat

Well-Known Member
So, I have a phone interview in about an hour, so I decided to practice answering some potential questions. One of these questions was "What do you do in your personal time?" (Unlikely to come up this early, but doesn't hurt to be prepared.)

It was then that I realized that Armchair Imagineering is one of the most difficult to describe hobbies that I could have. Like, how do you explain that to a non-theme park fan?
 
MickeyWaffleCo.

MickeyWaffleCo.

Well-Known Member
In the Parks
No
b-wolf95 said:
It was then that I realized that Armchair Imagineering is one of the most difficult to describe hobbies that I could have. Like, how do you explain that to a non-theme park fan?
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I often describe it as guest design or customer experience design, depending on who I’m describing it to.
 

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