Multiplayer games

Multiplayer Recommendations

There are times where you want to play alone, and there are times where it is more enjoyable and potentially more fun to play with another. This an article for those times in the latter category. These are not the only games worth recommending. I tried to only include one entry into from a series, particularly those not as prominent as others, but still good. Don't feel bad if there's a particular game or series that isn't featured, for if it's recommendable, you might consider adding it yourself. For further contributions, please consider following the guidelines I have laid out. You don't really have to follow my guidelines, but it would be pretty cool of you if you did. Like, super cool, even. Armed with multiple systems and the knowledge of fun games to play with others, you too, can be a true "multiplaya"*.


 * See Exhibit A

Exhibit A:



Dejiko's summertime Thanksgiving  Christmas ANYtime Multiplayer Bonanza

Note: I tried to only include one entry into from a series, particularly those not as prominent as others, but still good. Don't feel bad if there's a particular game in a series that isn't featured. For further contributions, please consider following the guidelines I have laid out. You don't really have to follow my guidelines, but it would be pretty cool of you if you did. Like, super cool, even.

Beat 'em up 01. Streets of Rage 2 (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: Has 4 characters to choose from, each with their own special attacks and fighting specialties. Oozes style and has an extremely catchy soundtrack. Also on: Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection for PS3 and 360 Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Td--0z7-jSk

02. TMNT IV: Turtles in Time (SNES/Arcade) (SNES- 2P; Arcade- 4P) Summary: The Statue of Liberty has been stolen. 4 Ninja Turtles with different stats and weapons must tear thru time to reclaim it. (Note: The SNES has more levels and bosses.) Video(s): SNES: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdpGOLAujG4 Arcade: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABSI_ny2WCw

03. Golden Axe (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: 3 warriors must defeat Death Adder, who captured a king, princess, and the mighty Golden Axe. Use your attacks and magic, and commandeer beasts to tear thru enemies. Also on: Sega Genesis Collection for PS2 and PSP, Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection for PS3 and 360 Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPvmkiq1SyY (Note: Shows the full game, so just cut off when you feel like it.)

04. Dynamite Cop/Die Hard Arcade series (Arcade/DC) (2 players) Summary: Cops fight terrorists using hand-to-hand skills, along with whatever forms of weaponry they come across. Quick Time Events give you a potential heads up on enemies. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgPeb7RJ4yM

05. Battletoads and Double Dragon (Multi-console) (2 players) Summary: The toads and Lee Brothers team up to face the union of their respective enemy forces. Plays like Battletoads, but is much more accessible than earlier Toads entries. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOdm_mkXPpY

06. Double Dragon 2 (Multi/NES) (2 players) Summary: Sequel to the Arcade hit. Features improvements to the great beat'em up action of the first and a nifty back-attack that becomes quite handy once you master it. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLerE6Ywf9w

07. Captain America & The Avengers (arcade) (2-4 players) Summary: Features heroes and villains from Marvel's Avengers series. A bit on the basic side, but has a nice comic book flair and is as hard as it is unintentionally hilarious. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGuK8g3XHeQ

08. Guardian Heroes (Saturn) (2-4 players) Summary: Legendary beat'em up notable for its multiple paths and endings, RPG stat boosting, tri-planar fighting grounds, and much more. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/saturn/file/573960/5173 Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjsDLfT-8X8

09. Shin Nekketsu Kouha Kunio-kun - Kunio Tachi No Banka (SNES) (2 players) Summary: This sequel to RCR is more linear. There's no RPG elements or exploration, but you get a fuckton of attacks from the first school boss, so the loss is minimal. More Info: http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/kunio/kunio2.htm for a bit more insight on this, Kunio and his other games (some of which are on this list) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2ba85K3trM (Deutsch to avoid spoilers... mostly. Also, it seems they haven't figured out any of the cool skills you can use.)

10. Final Fight 3 (SNES) (2 players) Summary: The third Final Fight gives players more characters, more attacks, more weapons, more enemy types, and best of all, more Haggar. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMk1JJGEJSU

Competitve/Cooperative Puzzle 01. Planet Puzzle League (2P online, 4P local) Summary: Puzzle League is built of various "matching-puzzle" concepts, but involves moving stationary blocks. Link 4+ blocks of the same color, and chain your way to victory. More Info: http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/IkiUaINsV1VDcc7mfIcMUJoK-jpwo4_Q Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTp4kUKZv4s (Gamecube Panel de Pon, same concepts, but the DS game lacks the characters of previous entries)

02. Puyo Puyo 15th Anniversary (DS) (2-4P normal; 5-8P limited) Summary: Colored Puyo globs fall downward. Match up 4+ of the same color and chain your way to victory. GBA and 15th feature various modes that mix things up on the fields. More Info: http://www.puyonexus.net/wiki/Puyo_Puyo!_15th_Anniversary for more details on modes and multiplayer Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9IY4jtcYAk

03. Columns III (Genesis) (2-5 players) Summary: Match falling colored block columns. One of the few puzzle games to let you clear and chain diagonally. Also has many ways to save yourself and screw over your rival. More Info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columns_III (info on features and multiplayer) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RZ8fwY4h0E (video of 1-player competitive, but works similarly in multiplayer modes)

04. Chew Man Fu (TG-16) (2 players) Summary: Involves rolling giant balls to their respective slots. You can smack enemies around with your balls, and also slam your balls to the walls to break them. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uhfHnp2xhk

05. Dr. Mario Online RX (Wii) (2-4 players) Summary: Pill dropping, virus-busting action, now with a new mode, Virus Buster, which uses the Wii remote IR to drag pills around. Like the name says, there's also online play. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1SMOguCRbo

06. Battle Lode Runner (TG-16) (2-5 players) Summary: Lode Runner involves making pitfalls infront or behind you to trap your enemies. The multiplayer takes some getting used to, but's a rather unique and fun experience. More info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_Lode_Runner (explains gameplay a bit more and the multiplayer modes) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqcNfdKE-cg

07. Yoshi's Cookie (SNES) (2 players) Summary: A match-# puzzle game which involves spinning cookies on a Rubik's Cube esque field. This game is notorious for its versus effects which screw with the enemy field. More Info: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Bs8i3f6hIU (visual explanation of the versus effects) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abiFBvcBXCc (Gamecube version, which explains the 4 players, but good luck finding a copy of that one, as I've heard it's pretty rare.)

08. Baku Baku Animals (Multi-console) (2 players) Summary: Uses the match-# formula, but instead involves feeding food tiles to animal tiles, which can lead to some pretty neat combo effects. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVt0ErFckCo (Story mode, but the gameplay is still the same)

09. Bust-A-Move '99 (N64) (2-4 players) Summary: Bounce bubbles off of walls to clear the descending bubble stacks on top. Follow the line guide well, because one off-angle shot can really screw you over. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRxdVCOBEbU (Story mode, but the gameplay is still the same)

10. Magical Drop 3 (Arcade/Multi-console) (2 players) Summary: Match-# formula, but involves holding and stacking mass numbers of orbs at a time. Also has "bomb" orbs, which clear entire colors off the field. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xCOrHv-Ch4 (Story mode, but the gameplay is still the same)

Fighting 01. SNK/Marvel/Tatsunoko vs Capcom (Multiconsole) (2 players) Summary: Characters from different franchise team up and face off against each other. One of the best and most fun fighting series for beginners to get into. More Info: http://capcomdatabase.wikia.com/wiki/Versus_%28Series%29 (Check links for more info on each game and off-site links with additional details on the games and fighters) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTC0KN7rx6M

02. Megaman Power Battles & Power Fighters (Arcade) (2 players) Summary: Megaman without the stages and only the bosses. In addition to being stronger, both sides have a number of new tricks up their sleeves. Even more so in the second. Also on: Mega Man Anniversary collection on GC, PS2 and XBox (contains both games, along with the classic Megaman 1-8) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnKaIU0cSoI

03. Yu Yu Hakusho: Sunset Fighters (Genesis) (2-4 players) Summary: Features characters from the Yu Yu Hakusho series. Has elements of Fatal Fury and Street Fighter along with some rather unique ideas that all mesh brilliantly. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/genesis/file/586623/21717 (more info and move list) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWLWKUU7WUo (A bit noisy, you might want to turn the volume down.)

04. Scarlet Weather Rhapsody (PC) (2 players) Summary: Another game featuring those Touhou characters. While a traditional fighter at its core, spellcards and weather can greatly affect the tides of battle. More Info: http://swr.mizuumi.net/index.php/Main_Page (Pretty much THE source on this game, explains it far better than I could.) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_ZzaecgWV4

05. Power Stone 2 (DC) (2-4 players) Summary: Similar to Smash Bros., but allows much more free-roaming movement. Stages are highly interactive and also have multiple items and superpower granting Power Stones. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/dreamcast/file/198333/10001 (FAQ and move list) Also on: Power Stone Collection for PSP (Hope you don't mind squinting) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9LMb9QXbKw

06. Gundam Battle Assault 2 (PS1) (2 players) Summary: Crossover battle between multiple Mobile Suit Gundam, Gundam Wing and G-Gundam. Plays mostly traditionally, but also has ammo and thruster gauge factors to consider. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/psx/file/562770/18769 (FAQ and movelist) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McpCI80Tum0

07. Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike (Multi-console) (2 players) Summary: A legendary entry in the SF series that's still loved and played today often. Incorporates a parry system and a Super Art system that changes gauges with your choice. More Info: http://strategywiki.org/wiki/Street_Fighter_III:_3rd_Strike (Picture-based movelist that shows how to move that there joystick and which of them old buttons to push) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2B1eeYZwrM (you might want to mute the volume)

08. Power Instinct Matrimelee (Arcade) (2 players) Summary: One of the weirder fighting games you will ever play that's actually good. Also features afew characters from Rage of the Dragons, a Double Dragon spinoff/homage. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/neogeo/file/582459/46372 (FAQ and movelist) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKNS5v6ep8E

09. King of Fighters 2002 (2K2: multi-console, Unlimited Match: PS2) (2P) Summary: A dream match among King of Fighters characters old and new. Features many characters with many styles of play. UM has 66 characters, and some extra stuff as well. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/ps2/file/953055/55904 (FAQ and move list) http://snk.wikia.com/wiki/The_King_of_Fighters_2002:_Unlimited_Match (for character info) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrtmVbCKywc (Unlimited Match Trailer)

10. Jojo's Bizarre Adventure (Arcade/DC) (2 players) Summary: Fabulously fashionable and ripped heroes and villains duke it out hand to hand and Stand to Stand. Any names resembling real life copyrights are purely coincidental. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/dreamcast/file/197694/7993 (FAQ and movelist) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ScIu78czq90 (Story mode, but the gameplay's mostly the same (different characters have different stands and specialties, obviously.)

Platformer 01. Top Hunter: Roddy and Cathy (Neo-Geo) (2 players) Summary: A platformer that has plane switching, fighting game input attacks, and streching arms to hit, grab, and throw stuff. The order of the first 4 worlds is chosen by you. Also on: SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1, Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpTuyQlbzyU

02. Rolling Thunder 2 (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: Stylish spy-ish arcade platformer with elements of Shinobi and Elevator Action. It is more centered on stealth and survival than shooting everything that moves. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ChOn4nUoIY (single player footage, but 2-player is simultaneous, however the videos of that were grainy and glare filled. Sorry.)

03. Metal Slug 3 (Multi-console) (2 players) Summary: Animated platformer with mobile tanks, subs, airplanes, aliens, mummies, zombies, etc. Also has lots of weapons, such as heavy machine guns and "raw kit lawnchairs". More Info: http://hg101.classicgaming.gamespy.com/metalslug/metalslug.htm Also on: Metal Slug Anthology Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2PKH7_2s5c

04. Kirby and the Amazing Mirror (GBA) (2-4P) Summary: A non-linear platformer, letting you unlock alot of paths and treasures. Cooperation and exploration aspects make this stand out among Kirby games in general. More Info: http://kirby.wikia.com/wiki/Kirby_&_the_Amazing_Mirror Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dsy0XirRfQg

05. Disney's Magical Quest 3 (SNES/GBA) (2 Players) Summary: Mickey and Donald use magic costumes (with different abilities between the two characters) to find a way out of a colorful and vibrant storybook world. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNZ2N8dek6c (SNES version; part of a boss demo with minor spoilers)

06. Contra: Hard Corps (Genesis) (2 Players) Summary: Contra (n.)- Soldiers face off against aliens, mutants, and other sorts of freaky and nasty creatures. Has a variety of weaponry to go with the tough difficulty. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtXNr_N-Edo

07. Gunstar Heroes (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: Mix and match weapons to create different shot combinations, 2 control types, you choose the order of the first 4 worlds and said worlds are full of unique elements. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdhYagDJjA8

08. World of Illusion (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: Mickey and Donald must use magic, capes, and cooperative teamwork to survive another strange and beautiful world that they have stumbled into. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAsHB6AhCJs

09. Shadow of the Ninja (NES) (2 players) Summary: Ninjas must stop some bad dudes from doing evil. Between power-ups and life refills, you'll do quite alot of sharing (and stealing) to test your cooperation. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YxPXCcytg4 (single player video, because I can't find one that's co-op and good)

10. The Great Battle V (SNES) (2 players) Summary: Features platforming that acts like a mix between Magical Quest and Megaman X. Also has "Shooting Battle Stages" which play like Wild Guns. Video(s): "Shooting Battle" Stage: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4IUT8OnZpI Normal Stage: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eG6MbBDOa8c

RPG/Adventure/Strategy 01. Phantasy Star Zero (DS) (2-4 players) Summary: A spiritual successor to Phantasy Star Online. Free of charge for online play, and now with more classes than before. Has customization out the wazoo. More Info: http://www.pso-world.com/ (Pretty much THE source on the game) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFmtsS9jG7w

02. Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time (DS) (2-4P) Summary: 4 tribes with different specialties add variety to standard action RPG gameplay. This calls for cooperation for different circumstances. Features alot of customization. More Info: http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Echoes_of_Time (has additional information on tribes, abilities, and other such stuff (Warning: Also has SPOILERS)) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2EOI8niJBw

03. Dungeon Explorer (TG-16) (2-5 players) Summary: Up to 5 players, 8 classes, Gauntletesque RPG, Challenging, but fun. I can't make this sound better than it is. (Note for Wii play: P5 needs a GC controller to play.) More Info: http://vc-pce.com/usa/e/title/dungeon.html (lowdown on items and characters) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03k6xAYWUmM

04. Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures (GC) (2-4 players) Summary: Zelda gets kidnapped. Link gets split into 4 Links. By working with himselves, he journeys through the countryside and your Game boy Advances to save Zelda. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1QEpTySaCw

05. Shining Soul II (GBA) (2-4 players) Summary: A cute Diablo-esque. Journey through a variety of lands and fight many different baddies along the way. 8 distinctive classes and up to 4 players mean alot of variety. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/portable/gbadvance/game/589485.html (contains class info, temple recipes, skills guides, and other info) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJZc6mmqtCI

06. Herzog Zwei (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: Command an army as you fight by their side in a transforming jet-mech. Capture territories to raise funds for stronger units for home defense and to conquer the enemy. More Info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herzog_Zwei (info on units and commands) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EO53h7nWEU (not sure what's up with that tapping sound)

07. Tales of Symphonia (GC) (2-4 Players) Summary: A rather expansive RPG with real time battles if/when you decide to face enemies instead of evading them. Has a decent story and a unique atmosphere and character cast. More Info: http://aselia.wikia.com/wiki/Symphonia (info on characters and their abilities) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KalxRdmuYgg (obviously some minor spoilers)

08. Arcus Odyssey (Genesis) (2 Players) Summary: Fast-paced, isometric, Gauntletesque RPG, with quite a bit of exploration. Has 4 different characters. No matter who you pick, the game still offers a nice challenge. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/genesis/file/586030/13914 (FAQ and character explanation) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57S6EicBWaA (single player video, sorry)

09. Military Madness (TG-16) (2 Players) Summary: Hexagonal turn based strategy on the moon. It's similar to Nintendo/Advance Wars, but it has a few differences here and there, mostly in movement and attack style. More Info: http://nectaris.tg-16.com/ (Pretty much everything you'll need to know) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFDx6Hw2ZjU

10. Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon (DS) (2P local and/or online) Summary: Command an army of different classed soldiers and capture the fort until the end or annihilate the enemy army. Also has "Cards" which can affect allies and/or enemies. More Info: http://serenesforest.net/fe11/ (for game info and multiplayer info) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hu4HQG9kfNY (point capture) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_7T3nNISsA (annihilation)

Shmup 01. Forgotten Worlds (Arcade/Genesis) (2 players) Summary: Play as dudes who fly around and can change their shot direction, and have robots to add extra firepower. Stock up on cash to shop for even more boosts and power-ups. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVvvb9ey3UY (arcade version)

02. Detana! Twinbee (TG-16/Arcade) (2 players) Summary: Has a unique and cool bell-power up system, team-up attacks, gorgeous stages, great soundtrack, and despite being cute as a button, this game gets hard as nails. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqcVAFT7iII (minor graphical errors due to recording)

03. Life Force/Salamander (NES) (2 players) Summary: A spinoff to Konami's Gradius shmup series. This has a simplified power-up system and has horizontal and vertical stages that both work remarkably well. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_zxORHSrdY

04. Cotton Boomerang: Magical Night Dreams (Saturn) (2 players) Summary: Cute girls fly about and shoot creatures in a beautiful and twisted world out to kill them. They can also throw around enemies, shots, and more at enemies and bosses. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clGwV6dT6ME

05. Crisis Force (NES) (2 players) Summary: Two ships can transform and also combine, creating different attack configurations. Pushes the NES/Famicom limits in aspects of visuals, sounds, control, and action. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVegVHGDv0o

06. Sexy Parodius (Multi-console) (2 players) Summary: Plays like Gradius, offering a variety of power-up options, some stranger than others. Despite being a Gradius parody, its still just as hard as the real deal. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abuT0M6eB5Y (single player video, sorry)

07. Twinkle Star Sprites (Arcade/DC) (2 players) Summary: A cast of strange characters compete against each other for the prize of a wish. Combines fixed shooter and puzzle elements for fast-paced competitions between players. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mcfzlj1bwk4

08. Phantasmagoria of Flower View (PC) (2 players) Summary: Inspired by Twinkle Star Sprites, but does a some things differently. Also, uses those little Touhou characters everyone loves, hates, or knows nothing about so much. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcZe18vj2rw

09. Gunbird (Arcade) (2 players) Summary: A cast of strange characters collect pieces of a mirror to get a wish. Character combinations affect dialogue and endings in hilarious and somewhat disturbing fashions. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bQNcc6eTBQ

10. Pocky and Rocky 1 (SNES) (2 players) Summary: "Goblins" are running amok. A "magician" and "raccoon" must put an end to this. Plays similar to Commando, but arguably harder. Great music, action, and HARD AS FUCK. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uASF2Lidxr4 (lag, due to online) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkijXULeN4Q (Proper Speed)

Sports/Racing 01. Super Dodge Ball (NES) (2P)/ Super Dodgeball Brawlers (2-4P) Summary: Hit the other team members in the face with a ball. Involves passing, ground and aerial shots, and of-course devestating super shots. The DS game also has items to use. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwYBoTiG9Ms (NES version, and yeah they're supposed to blink) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_LU_NcNxUA (DS version)

02. Tecmo Super Bowl (NES) (2 players) Summary: FOOTBALL! Select a plan, then take to the action. This is one of the first GOOD football games and still one of the best. Also featuring "you-know-who". Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSMpgMwlDCY (CPU, but still applies) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFmUdKLB6ic (Do I even have to say it?)

03. NBA Jam: Tournament Edition (Multi-console) (2 players) Summary: 2 on 2 action involving NBA players of retro years. Famous for its expansive list of cheat codes and hidden characters, such as former U.S. President, Bill Clinton. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOnYWdrEUBg (Will Smith on 32X) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlRI-KsGOrc (Clintons on SNES)

04. Crash 'n the Boys: Street Challenge (NES) (2-4 players) Summary: Track and Field: Hardass Edition. Involves marathon running and swimming, fight contests, building hopping, and hammer toss golf. Hope you've got fast fingers. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyHNNGt7fSM (Showcases events in different screens, also Japanese version, which is only slightly different)

05. Snowboard Kids 2 (N64) (2-4 players) Summary: Downhill snowboard racing that has tricks, items, and characters with huge noses. The first is also good, despite having some different physics, but the DS one sucks. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61hkMmC6pgg (Single player, sorry)

06. Rock N' Roll Racing (Genesis/SNES) (2 players) Summary: An isometric racing game with customization and a dash of Mario Kart. Features rockin' music and an announcer for play-by-play action. Genesis has more songs than SNES. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZaFak2tJNs

07. NHL '96 (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: One of the best hockey games for the Genesis. Features spot-on control for movement and passes, clashes, and of course, righteous puck-smacking action. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bksyqTOkbfE

08. King of Monsters (Arcade) (2 players) Summary: A giant monster battle game that combines fighting and wrestiling elements. Use the environment to your advantage for damage and power-ups. Also on: SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1 Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bb4SAr0tV8

09. F-Zero X (N64) (2-4 players) Summary: Futuristic racing featuring loops, ramps, pipes, spirals, ramming, side-swiping, and high speed boost power. A good start to the F-Zero series for beginners. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2VhPMGp1GY

10. Wii Sports Resort (Wii) (2-4 players) Summary: Utilizes motionplus to create pretty damn smooth gameplay. Lacks the different training modes of the first, but the large variety of sports makes up for this. More Info: http://wiisportsresort.com/ (Press pause button to access menu and see more details about the games) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xh_b7T-QVZc

Other/Party/Rhythm (I didn't think of enough games to fill out individual columns) 01. Mario Party 2 (N64) (2-4 players) Summary: Dice-centered board game that also features various stage-centric events and more importantly, mini-games. Generally considered to be one of the best MP entries. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvLaDK0IXwU (Pirate Land) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=478uuibu2bM (Western Land)

02. WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Party Games! (GC) (2-4 players) Summary: A psuedo-port of the first Warioware, as it features the same games and simple controls, but each player does a game simultaneously, competing against the others. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBL-MW1KlGc (Survival Fever, Outta My Way) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8fMajhITqQ (Card e-cards)

03. House of the Dead series (Overkill, Wii) (2 players) Summary: Zombies (or mutants, your call) are running amok all over the place. In this rail shooter series, you must fight the undead and save as many innocents as you can. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSD1KL79Sjs

04. Zombies Ate My Neighbors (SNES) (2 players) Summary: Go around maps saving neighbors while killing zombies with water guns, weed whackers, bazookas, and more. If too many neighbors get killed, it's game over, so be quick. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/snes/file/563219/38090 (weapon guide) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ut9oWWI0mWM

05. Team Fortress 2 (PC) (2-many players) Summary: Team-based FPS involving animated characters of different specialties helping their team to defeat each the other side. Best bought with The Orange Box. More Info: http://tf2wiki.net/wiki/Main_Page Video(s): http://www.teamfortress.com/movies.htm

06. Gang Garrison (PC) (2-many players)) Summary: "8-bit demake" of Team Fortress 2. Weapons and game modes are limited but gameplay uses platformer elements. There's alot of maps, and some are based on other games. More Info: Official game download and info: http://www.ganggarrison.com/ Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEOk0wsyMjM

07. Quiz & Dragons: Capcom Quiz Game (Arcade) (2 players) Summary: A board-game "RPG" that revolves around quiz questions. May be easy as hell or hard as balls depending on your retro knowledge and trivia knowledge in general. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdQGpHICpTU

08. Pop'n Music Series (PS2/arcade) (2 players) Summary: Another crazy color-coded rhythm game series. Tough as nuts to solo, because it's intended for couple-play, but has great songs and is challenging. Avoid the Wii game. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKSPTOkXpsc http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drT_H68cuEE (on-screen) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0C5RKyTQMc (off-screen solo play)

09. Taiko no Tatsujin DS (DS) (2-4 players) Summary: Drum to the beat of songs from various genres, such as J-pop, Video game music, Classical, and Anime. Higher difficulties are totally brutal. See also: Meccha! Taiko no Tatsujin DS for more songs along with any other entries from the Taiko no Tatsujin series, provided you can find them, that is. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUJaa6KoOy8 (mute this) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhwBlRBLIUk (sync to 1st) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciTRY2zZ_uk (solo play)

10. Elite Beat Agents/Ouendan series (DS) (2 players) Summary: People need help with solving various life problems and it's up to you to inspire them through song, dance, and cheer. Tap, spin, and slide to a number of cool songs. More Info: Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n64jjZy8Yno (EBA) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQuI1lolRLA (Ouendan)

Z= Miscelaneous (multi or hard to place genre) 01. Balloon Fight (NES) (2 players) Summary: Similar to the game Joust, but features a few more obstacles to spice things up. 2-players can cooperate or compete with each other. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzSkGx0gvA4 (a bit laggy, but you get the idea.)

02. Bomberman (Bomberman Blast (Wii), Online (360/PS3), or 64 (N64)) (2-4 players) Summary: Blow up the other players before they blow up you. Most stages have items that can help you out, and most also have a neat trick or gimmick that spices up the matches. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bO4hEkdvGWI (Live) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6B7yO-0G-Yk (Blast) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeqfZ3m-m-8 (64)

03. Toejam and Earl (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: An overhead puzzle-platformer with roguelike elements. Collect parts for your ship to return home. Features trippy locales and a funkadelic soundtrack Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKiX6OAVwMc

04. Goemon's great adventure (N64) (2-4P) Summary: A platformer in a steampunk mock-up of feudal Japan, featuring one of the wildest casts of heroes and villains. There are also first person view giant robot battles. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AVCssrV0HU (single player, sorry)

05. River City Ransom (NES) (2 players) Summary: A beat'em up legend. This game combined RPG elements, such as learning attacks, and boosting stats, with the good ol' fashioned real-time ass kickings of beat'em ups. More info: http://shrines.rpgclassics.com/nes/rcr/index.shtml Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7FpF7PX0nA

06. Gain Ground (Genesis) (2 players) Summary: A run-'n-gun with a dose of strategy. Your goal is to reach the exits of the stages, but you can also save other characters along the way and add them to your ranks. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RsIPLpIVxg (single player, sorry)

07. Bubble Symphony (multiconsole) (2 players) Summary: AKA Bubble Bobble 2 (arcade); Features traditional Bubble Bobble action from the first, but stages are based on other Taito games, such as Darius and Space Invaders. Alson on: Taito Legends 2 Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ta453x2eHkc (Manuke/Rocky Boss Fight, single player) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zq7gNUIgfDs (attract mode offscreen)

08. Valkyrie No Densetsu (Legend of Valkyrie) (arcade) (2 players) Summary: An overhead run-'n-gun/platformer hybrid that features shops, dungeons, and non-linear stages. You might need an FAQ for one small quiz section, but that's about it. Also on: Namco Museum Volume 5 (PS1), and translated. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXazU7qJv5Y

09. The Lost Vikings 2 (SNES)/Norse by Norsewest(PC/PS1/SAT) (2 players) Summary: A puzzle-platformer that involves utilizing the abilities of each character in order to get past obstacles, solve puzzles, and get everyone to the exit. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvpMKILavx0 (LV2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1Dvy7Ba1M8 (NBN)

10. Goof Troop (SNES) (2 players) Summary: A puzzle-adventure game that has Goofy and Max exploring an island, facing off against foes, and solving some various puzzles. Features several tools and items to use. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_CiVzPmYZs

11. Mendel Palace (NES) (2 players) Summary: A puzzle/arena hybrid that has you uncover powerups below tiles, while also using said tiles to throw enemy mooks to the walls to defeat them. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxdHrr1fGKg

12. Boogie Wings (Arcade) (2 players) Summary: A shmup in the air, a run'n gun on the ground. The plane's hook can throw nearly anything. While on foot, you can ride nearly anything, which also effects your weapon. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic67-yJP0EY

13. Quartet (Arcade) (2-4 players) Summary: Run-'n-gun that plays a bit like a platforming version of Gauntlet with jetpacks and laser guns. Stages are not always linear, so be ready for alternate paths. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBvVaOPd-Gg (2 players) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgdbcPrSQQo (4 player scenes after SDI segment)

14. The Chaos Engine/Soldiers of Fortune (Genesis/SNES/PC) (2 players) Summary: Overhead Run-'n-gun mixed with some slight RPG customization. Each character has different weapons and specialties, and stages are full of power-ups and enemies alike. More Info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaos_Engine (gives a brief summary on each character) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfNlmzi0Mq4

15. Wild Guns (SNES) (2 players) Summary: A sci-fi western game that uses character movement and gun aiming co-operatively. Features tons of hidden targets and bonuses throughout stages, so shoot everything. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuEnAQHtHMo

16. Wario's Woods (SNES) (2 players) Summary: A puzzle game that involves blowing up monsters with different colored bombs. Chaining explosions is key to victory. Be sure to act fast or else you'll get Thwomp'd. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6p0jbYCSy4

17. Gotcha Force (GC) (2 players) Summary: Children hold friendly competitions using toys that can cause mass destruction. Slightly resembles Custom Robo, with less customizing, but more action and strategy. More Info: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/gamecube/file/914796/29019 (Gotcha Borg list) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qq8KMMDQC_A

18. Mystic Heroes (GC/PS2) (2-4 players) Summary: Abit like Dynasty Warriors. Based on mythology, you and your team must take down evil forces with might and magic. PS2 version has more characters and modes over GC. More Info: http://koei.com/launch/mystic_heroes/index.htm (official site) http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/gamecube/file/561609/19656 (rune guide) Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pZIrrlEVqY

19. We Love Katamari (PS2) (2 players) Summary: Roll on stuff with a ball and it sticks to said ball. Once you've got stuff stuck to it, it can roll up more stuff. You'll go from thumbtacks to continents in no time. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MhR11Qk044

20. The Red Star (PS2) (2 players) Summary: Has beat'em up and shmup sections in a world loosely based on the comic. Also upgradable characters. It's a bit hard to find, but it usually goes for cheap, thankfully. Video(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ApKHGLbyAw

Quite a number of games, right? Some of you might be thinking, "I'm not even sure which one I should try first!" Have no fear, because I did that shit for you! Just print out the following 2 images (which I will post soon.)