Top 20 games of the early years

[EZ Racer]

We all have our favorite games. And many of us have our favorite consoles. But in 2020, amidst the chaos, we sifted through some of the best games from the early years, 2600, NES, Genesis, Playstation were just a few of the consoles covered, and each system had its share of heavy hitters.

But what if we pitted those heavy hitters against each other? What if we included PC games from the era? And what about some love for games on systems that may not have had enough success to warrant their own Top 20 list (Virtual Boy Wario Land, anyone?).

[img width=700 height=466]https://cdn3.dualshockers.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/gaming-edit.jpg[/img]

We want to make a list of the best of the best, and considering how many great titles there are to choose from, make your list at least 20, but add as many as you'd like to add as additions to your list.

Also, as you make your list, include what system each game is for, since multiple systems are involved.

If you have participated before, anyone is welcome. Here's a reminder how to participate-

1. Make an ordered list of whatever games are your favorites for the system being covered that month.

-Make your list about what games you think are the best, NOT necessarily the most important. (For example, Super Mario Bros. is one of the most influential games in VG history, but not many would call it a better game than SMB3)

-Also, your list needs to be limited to games you have personally played. Don't include a game just because you've heard it's good, include a game because you know it's good.

-For a few of the games, try to include a few thoughts on why that particular game made your list. That way, those not as familiar with the game can see why it's one they should put on their radar.

2. Personal Message EZ Racer with your ordered list.

Just put "Top 20 games all time" in the subject line. Throughout the month, I will be compiling the results, and release a full list based on votes sent in. I will be putting extra weight on games voted for the top of the lists, so please make sure that your games are listed in numeric order. The reasoning behind a private vote is so that each member's vote can be their own, not influenced by what they think others would want.

Participants:

EZ Racer*
Crabmaster2000*
Fokakis79*
Wempster*
Disposed Hero
MetalFro

The only limitations to this list are to keep to 5th generation and earlier. Anything that came out at the same time as Playstation 1, N64, Sega Saturn, etc.) while including the Game Boy Advance. And yes, that included Japan exclusives, and well as PC games from the era.

I'm sure there will be some interesting decisions at the top...

[Crabmaster2000]

So it's a top 20 list of games for any system up to gen 5? Maybe a specific year cut off would be helpful for PC/arcade releases since they don't follow the same generational formula

[Disposed Hero]

Oh boy, this is going to be one doozy of a list!

[MetalFRO]

Wow, this is going to be a challenge!

[EZ Racer]

So it's a top 20 list of games for any system up to gen 5? Maybe a specific year cut off would be helpful for PC/arcade releases since they don't follow the same generational formula

My thought is PC through '99. I know that seems to give some PC games an advantage, but I think there are so many good console games, no one's list will turn into a top 20 PC.

[Crabmaster2000]

So it's a top 20 list of games for any system up to gen 5? Maybe a specific year cut off would be helpful for PC/arcade releases since they don't follow the same generational formula

My thought is PC through '99. I know that seems to give some PC games an advantage, but I think there are so many good console games, no one's list will turn into a top 20 PC.

Does this include arcade games as well or just focusing on home gaming?

[Fokakis79]

This is going to be fun.

[Crabmaster2000]

Think I got my list together. How's it going for the rest of you?

[Fokakis79]

Yeah, I am pretty close to finishing it up.  I am still contemplating one of the games on my list

[Disposed Hero]

I'm getting there, but I wasn't kidding when I said it was going to be a doozy of a list. I'm pretty much doing a Top 100 at this point. It's interesting to me though that some of my placements have changed since the previous Top 20 lists from last year.

[EZ Racer]

Still time left to get some lists turned in. Would love to get as much participation as possible.

[Disposed Hero]

Mine's coming but it'll be last minute as usual.

[EZ Racer]

Hope to see some more lists turned in soon. Think this will be a really fun list to put together in seeing everyone's favorites.

[Wempster]

Got mine in just under the wire last night

[MetalFRO]

I apologize, I had a family funeral over the weekend, had a lot of travel, and didn't get to this list. I was mulling it over, but having trouble narrowing down my choices.