Some games just never get old, no matter how many times you play them or how many years they've been available for. Like a good book, some games just draw you back in again and again, to re-experience gripping tales, epic adventures or zany antics. Here are a few games that have had such an effect on me. (NOTE: For it to be considered a "classic", it must have been released on a system prior to the PS2/GCN/XBox/DC generation)
Dr. Mario
One of the first games I've ever played in my whole life, Dr. Mario sticks in my mind for many reasons. Beyond nostalgia, the greatest factor in this game's staying power is how amazingly fun it is! Many people look down on Dr. Mario as it's simpler and easier than, say, Tetris or Puzzle League. While I appreciate all of these franchises, there's just some sort of hidden charm in Dr. Mario that draws me to it. Whether it's the excitement at barely passing a stage or the frustration of messing up a game-winning combo, there's just some sort of unknown feeling that overcomes me when working with the good doctor. I often work for upwards of half an hour trying to fire up my old NES, just to cram in a few scant minutes of germ-busting mayhem! However, since it seems my Dr. Mario cartridge is no longer functional, I'll have to wait for some other alternative to come along *Cough* Virtual Console *Cough*.
Pokémon Snap
Of all the spin-off Pokémon games released so far, I must say that Snap is my favorite. While it sounds like a really stupid premise on the surface (Taking pictures of Pokémon? WTF, mate?), when you really get into it you find there's a lot more then simply aiming and snapping. You have to take into account what the Pokémon's doing, how much of the frame it takes up, which ways it's facing, and more. Getting the perfect pic is nearly impossible, and it's that lofty goal that keeps me coming back for more! Also, the game's just plain fun, with puzzles and secrets around nearly every bend. If you ever see this sitting in a flea market, buy it. It rocks, and I'm almost sure you'd agree, too.
Roller Coaster Tycoon
"Oh noes, a NON-Nintendo game on a top ten classics list written by PsychoDuck? It can't be!" Oh, but it is. Roller Coaster Tycoon is possibly the greatest PC game I've ever played, and is definitely in my top 50 overall. Building things and watching people move through it has always been a fascination of mine, from The Sims to Sim City to plain old ant farms. Add in the creativity-pushing roller coaster building modes, and you pretty much have everything I love all in one game! I think the only thing debatable here is whether it's Roller Coaster Tycoon or RollerCoaster Tycoon...
What are some classic games you just can't seem to put down?
The Duck Has Spoken.
