1.) Super Mario 64
Once upon a time, 3D games were unrefined, clumsy, and lacking precise control. And then Super Mario 64 came along and changed everything. The revolutionary title introduced analog sensitivity to console players and also showed the world that 3D games needn't be a chore to play. In stark contrast, Nintendo's breathtakingly beautiful platformer not only introduced a new level of control accuracy, but enveloped gamers in huge worlds filled with complementary objectives and challenges. Like Ocarina of Time, Super Mario 64 also successfully updated Nintendo's mascot franchise for a new generation of gamers. The game will go down in history as a true classic.
2.) Pokemon Red/Blue
This is one of the few games that became so wildly popular that it transcended videogames and became a part of popular culture. The deceptively deep game launched so many movies, TV shows, and toys that it's easy to forget just how great a game Pokemon is. By melding deep strategy, lovable characters, rewarding exploration, and a simple game interface, Nintendo delivered a game that succeeded on all levels. It brought a new dimension of interactivity to RPGs by making it beneficial to link up with other trainers to do battle or trade towards that ultimate goal of catching 'em all.
3.) Rayman 2: The Great Escape
Platform gaming has long been known for jumping, bopping enemies, and collecting items. Rayman 2 broke no new grounds in these areas, but instead perfected them as no other game had before. Starring a character with no arms, legs or neck, Rayman 2 is a demonstration of what the modern platform game could be -- smart, fast and challenging.
4.) Sonic the Hedgehog
For a while, Sonic the Hedgehog was the most recognized mascot in the entire world, bigger than Mickey Mouse and more recognized than the beloved Mario. If not for the little blue guy, Nintendo may have extended its iron grip on the industry for a number of years. Sonic introduced the adrenalin rush to video games and his first three titles reached a level of platforming Zen that developers are still trying to recreate in three dimensions.
5.) Super Smash Bros. Melee
By combining an all-star character cast with intensely quick, fighter-meets-platforming gameplay, Nintendo created a four-player phenomenon with this franchise. The original N64 version rocked the gaming world and introduced the concept, but the GameCube iteration nearly perfected it with faster gameplay, deeper strategy, and more bonuses than you can shake a fire flower at. Even today with so many games released, no one has managed to successfully duplicate Super Smash Bros. It is truly one of the most original games of modern gaming and Nintendo itself will have trouble topping this sequel, which is unparalleled in style and execution.
6.) Metroid Prime
Prime will undoubtedly be remembered for updating the Metroid franchise in new and inventive ways. But the game will also have a very special place in the hearts of adventure fans for its polished control mechanics, gorgeous world and ingenious environmental puzzles. Prime remains one of the prettiest games on Nintendo's console, too. A must-have GameCube title.
7.) Resident Evil 4
Capcom took a risk with its creepy survival horror sequel, Resident Evil 4, because the game did not follow the franchise's template. Rather, it threw out the old mechanics and dunked players directly into a frenzied new environment filled with all-new scares. No zombies and fewer cheap frights. Instead, hero Leon S. Kennedy was forced to run for his very life -- crazed villagers and monstrous villains giving chase. The title's new 3D camera system and quickened control mechanics made for a more intuitive Resident Evil experience than ever, and the game's unparalleled graphics pushed the limits of this generation's technology.