The Five games that define you as a gamer

[catalyst8]

Atari's Tempest
Although I'd cut my teeth on earlier arcade games like Space Invaders & Asteroids, Tempest was an excellent, fast-paced & intense shooter. It was always a pleasure to get your three initials in the top ten for the rest of the arcade punters to see (even if it did eat all of my money).

Elite
With the introduction of home computers in the early '80s, as soon as Elite became available for my Spectrum 48 I spent months working my way to the hallowed rank. 'Right on commander!' Needless to say I'm greatly anticipating Star Citizen which, to me at least, sounds very much like Elite the MMO.

Speedball II: Brutal Deluxe
Arguably the best Amiga game ever, admittedly with strong competition from UFO: Enemy Unknown/X-COM: Enemy Unknown.

Medal of Honor[sic]
Despite being unable to spell 'honour' correctly, this was my introduction to multi-player FPS. The first expansion was OK, but the subsequent ones were always just that little bit more shit than the previous one. FPS set in modern environments with their ubiquitous levelling systems & weapon unlocks just leave me cold. For a skill-based multi-player shooter if you need to give better weapons & gear to anyone it should be the rubbish players, not the good ones - they don't need it.

Left4Dead(2) - Versus
I don't play this nearly as much as I used to, but as far as the team based FPS game goes, this is currently unbeatable. If you disagree then that's up to you, you can take your CoD clones & the new Medal of Honor[sic] & shove them far enough up your arse to rupture your intestine.

As an aside I nearly chose Thief instead of MoH, but once you'd beaten it Thief's replayability was minimal compared to the constant entertainment & time spent in MoH.

 

[juyunseen]

Pokemon Silver: My first game ever. EVER.

Halo: CE: Showed me gaming outside nintendo, and I liked it. Also my first real PC addiction aside from the next game on this list.

Runescape: I dunno what it is about this game. I know it's boring, I know everyone hates it, but dammit I love the world, I love the grind, and I love the game. I don't play much these days, but there was a time when it was a daily happening.

DayZ: So mods used to be a thing I ignored. But then I saw DayZ mentioned in Extra Credits. Then I watched Rooster Teeth play. Then I watched an LP series of it. And then... and then... well countless hours of gameplay later, here we are.

Half-Life 2: This showed me just how smart a shooter can be. Enough said.

Simple as that really.

 

[gritch]

Let's see.
I suppose my first game would be:
1. Toypop [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toy_Pop] When I was younger this was my first game I really played often. My mother and I would play the game together for hours. Sort of what made me aware of gaming to begin with.
2. Spyro the Dragon While Toypop might have been my first game Spyro was definitely the first game I played as one would consider a "gamer". First "real" game I actually played through to the end.
3. Monster Hunter I accredit this game to first getting me into online gaming. I enjoyed the game so much I got an Ethernet apdater for my PS2 so I could play it online. Online gaming during the haydays of Halo followed suit.
4. Runescape Back in middle school this was my life. I loved playing with all my friends (it was big at the time) and even after they got bored and left I still hung around. Eventually I grew out it but for a time it was undoubtedly my favorite game.
5. Persona 4 I suppose if I would have to describe my current state of gaming this game would sum it up. I'm not into online gaming anymore and prefer single player RPGs. I don't game nearly as much as I used to.
So those would probably be the games that define my evolution as a gamer. Not necessarily the greatest games but they're what I learned from.

 

[Garland]

1. The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind - This was my first sandbox game (first one I liked anyways) and the only one I know of where it is possible to jump from one end of the continent to the other. Spell and skill variety were at an all time high for the series while it greatly improved on the placelessness that plagued Daggerfall while still maintaining a vastness (without Fast Travel). Combat was nothing to call home about and magicka did not regenerate, NPCs were largely stationary and mostly spoke in text. Animations were clunky, borderline goofy and Tribunal was unfortunately small. But even with all these items, the game felt so free, I could drop or sell those vital quest items, kill those essential NPCs and stack alcohol until I could carry thousands of pounds. Even the bugs and glitches in the game were fun in their own right, being from a time prior to the complicated scripting found in Oblivion, Skyrim, Falout 3, and Fallout New Vegas. It was also the only game I heavily modded for my own personal use, creating even my own NPCs with dialog trees, my own houses, items, and enemies. The Construction Set made it extremely easy, even for someone like myself.

2. Final Fantasy IX - A light-hearted tribute to the long-running series and the last of the Playstation entries. Overall, the strength of FFIX was characterization and superior pacing to FFVIII (and much better localization than FFVII). I'd dare say that Zidane is the series best protagonist, assuming one doesn't have an aversion to furries.

3. Psychonauts - The pinnacle of quirky prior to the rein of Suda51. Psychnonauts is short, but diverse experience with enough humor to satiate even the most melancholy of teenagers. From concept, to characters, to level design, the game oozes a creativity seldom lathered so thoroughly atop the entirety of the romp.

4. Minecraft - A unique experiment in simplicity, proving the value of creativity and the foolhardiness of the video games industry's obsession with graphics. Minecraft succeeds because it offers a diverse experience that ultimately the player defines. The game continues to grow, and remains a paragon of what the industry is capable of.

5. Bioshock - Atmosphere was the primary strength of Bioshock, not shooting, not characterization, not even storytelling. As a student of philosopher, I greatly appreciated the addressing and criticism of Ayn Rand within a AAA title. Even though the ending was lackluster and it ran on a diametric morality scale, the opening cinematic still gives me chills and the gameplay makes me coo with glee.

 

[JagermanXcell]

1. Metal Gear Solid 3: Enjoyed practically every MGS, but this one hit me so hard in places I didn't know could be hit. Great story, gameplay, setting, characters, stealth ect. ect. frikin ect. With Peace Walker right behind this one might I add.

2. Dark Souls: This came out in 2011, mind you this year was a pretty bland year for games. Then I bought this near 2011s end and it deserves the title of classic with a community of the most respectful gamers. This game has incredible atmosphere and tight gameplay. Also you die a lot, we need more of that.

3. Shadow of the Colossus: Masterpiece.

4. Arkham Asylum: Batman has never felt more defined until this game..

5. Persona 3/4: IMO both these games are the greatest games ever made. The experience I had first time playing these was one to remember. It had a great original story, solid gameplay, the most in depth characters I've ever seen in a game, probably the best original soundtrack, and it was the first game to not only make me cry but feel just about every emotion that could be felt. It felt real, without the use of super realistic graphics. These games have the one thing most video games today lack. To but it simply, 3/4 have soul.

 

[VeryOddGamer]

1) Guild Wars. It was my first MMO and I think my first RPG I really played as well, so that's where I've learned most of the terms associated with RPGs.

2) Knights of The Old Republic 2: The Sith Lords: This Name Is Way Too Fucking Long. It was another game I played, and I believe it was my first story-based single player RPG, so it's probably affected my tastes quite a lot.

3) Halo 2. It probably the first real 3D game I've ever played and by that extension, my first FPS as well.

4) I actually think this is the most important one: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion.
I believe it was my first real open-world game, and I still look back at it with nostalgic feelings, that are absent from the rest. (Except maybe Guild Wars).

And 5) Pokemon Ruby. I think it was one of the first games I've ever owned, and it most likely has had a large impact in me learning to read Finnish and later English.
I learnt to read at around the age of 5, if I remember correctly.

Well, that got pretty personal.

 

[Acryllos]

1. Golden Sun (1 and 2)
As handheld titles go, this would be the definitive one for me. A bit dialogue heavy at times and combat with basic enemies lack luster, but more than made up for it with stunning visuals and unmatched soundtrack. Oddly enough, more memorable than pokemon to me...

2.Amnesia: The Dark Descent
Terror like never before. I hate being startled, that's why I never liked horror flicks. But this is the first time I've ever experienced such dread and genuine fear. Immersive as all hell.

3.Mirror's Edge
Meh story, and gameplay could have been more engaging, but if it showed me one thing, it is the interesting effect that realistic textures combined with striking colours can create a one of a kind aesthetic. Aesthetic above graphics.

3.Half-Life 2
It really is in the details. It's obvious how much care and thought has been put into this. Controls: unmatched. Story: compelling. Really wish they would release the next episode.

4.Call of Duty series
Hahaha, I realize it is often dismissed as juvenile, thoughtless, and samey, but I don't think I've sunk as many hours into any other game as this one. it's quick, fun, pick-up-and-play action.

5.Bastion
Aesthetic, story, and delicious action. Plus the narrator's voice is sexy as hell. A shining example of indie gaming.

 

[VeryOddGamer]

Pokemon - My favorite game series of all time, and the one I've spent the most time with. Hands down, this game defines me.

Halo - This was my first game of the previous generation, and paved the way for my enjoyment of FPS games. Sure, I played Goldeneye back in the day, but I never really got into a FPS game until Halo, and the entire series has been something me and my friends all enjoy together.

Rainbow Six Vegas - This was the first online multiplayer game I ever got into, and still one of my favorite multiplayer games of all time.

Oblivion - My first game of the current generation, and probably the game I've sunk the most hours into for any single game this generation. Skyrim was awesome and better, but I played Oblivion way more.

Banjo-Kazooie - My first N64 game, and still my favorite platformer of all time. The worlds were just amazing, the puzzles and collecting was fun, and the platforming/move system was second to none.

Damn, we have 3 games in common.
That's quite a strange coincidence, although 2 of yours are series' rather than specific games.
WERE YOU THE GOBLIN ON MY SHOULDER ALL ALONG???

 

[GamemasterAnthony]

Hmmm...having played games for over 30 years, this will be tough...

Half-Life

The first game of this series...before Valve got derpy with the chapters thing...was one of the first FPS games I've played that I truly enjoyed. Not only very atmospheric, but knew how to keep it engaging without the need for constant waves of enemies.

Portal (Both games)

As a lover of puzzles, this was a great addition to the genre. The pitch black humor and just how sadistic GLaDOS was gave the game a unique feel I enjoyed.

Pokémon (entire series)

This series hooked me as soon as I saw the STRAT GUIDE! With almost infinite ways to build your team, this was one of the most versitile RPGs I have seen. It was also pretty cool that this was the first game to create a social network before there was even an INTERNET!

Dragon Quest (entire series)

Ever since Dragon Warrior on the NES got me hooked on RPGs, these games have been a mainstay in my collection. Sure the FF games are great too, but these have a more whimsical feel to them that adds a more fun factor to them.

Okami

HO...LY...CRAP!!! This...is not a game. This is a work of art. Those naysayers who say games aren't art REALLY need to be forced to play this game. Intense symbolism, incredible and atmospheric graphics, a very intuitive control scheme...this game had everything.

 

[Brotha Desmond]

For me

Pokemon yellow: got me to get my first game system

Mario cart double dash: To date one of the only racing games that I like

Battlefield Bad company 1: Got me into the shooter genre (if only briefly)

Dragonball Z Budokai (1+2+3):The only fighting games that I liked. I remember playing those games endlessly with my brother over the weekends.

Fallout New Vegas: Showed me that you can make a good open world RPG. (I don't care for mideval stuff).

 

[Shinsei-J]

Klonoa: Door to Phantomile
I just adore this game in every way possible and I can't find a falt in it.

Final Fantasy IX
Most FF games but this one in particular. It's the first FF game I finished and my favorite.

Warcraft 3
It introduced me to user made content and was also the first RTS I'd ever played, I still love a round or two with friends.
(also so many hours on DOTA)

Crash Bandicoot 1
Played it with my mother and I'll always have my best memories of her from this.

Secret of Mana
The last great SNES game.

Well that was cathartic. I'm feeling quite happy now.

 

[mlbslugger06]

Chrono Trigger
My first RPG and the game that allowed me to think of reality with imagination of what could be as well as question what it means to be human (Robo were you just a machine?)

Banjo Kazooie
Collectibles, humor, solid platforming all combined to make a satisfying play for years. The game that didn't take itself too seriously and allowed players to just enjoy the creation.

Final Fantasy VI
Introduced me to a somewhat realistic, sci-fi fantasy that has completely kept me interested in the genre ever since. It redefined the power videogames have when creating worlds, characters and stories.

Heroes of Might and Magic III
The first PC game that received a significant portion of my time and proved that games, and life, is only enhanced when you are required to think and strategize.

Shadow of the Colossus
Minimalistic, virtually devoid of dialogue, yet the most emotionally captivating and breathtaking experience I have ever had while playing a game.

 

[2clueless]

1) Super Mario Brothers

- The very beginning. First game I truly remember playing at four years old. Dad always said he'd get me a new game if I actually beat it, but I never was able to.. he got me new games anyways.

- Honourable Mention: 76 games in 1 cartridge for the NES. Some English games, some Japanese games, some I have no idea, but it was a hell of a ride when looking for something to play.

2) Legend of Zelda: Link to the Past

- My favourite Zelda game of the series. Played through and beat it I don't know how many times. Exploring every nook and cranny, finding heart pieces, figuring out puzzles.. just such a good game!

- Honourable Mention: Super Mario and Search for the Seven Stars. Best RPG I have played to date. Text dialogue, character interactions, Bowser as a teammate, Mallow! Geno! Lazy Shell weapon and armour! So many secret weapons and boxes. Just a ton of fun and awesome experiences all around.

3) Warcraft II

- My introduction to PC Gaming. Haven't looked back since. Oh, I kept up with my Nintendo fanboyism for awhile, but now 99% percent of my gaming is on the computer. And let's face it, Orcs and Humans and all their assorted allies, intrigue, plot, world, story, had so many appealing elements. And the sillys when clicking a unit too much!

- Honourable Mention: Starcraft. Better than Warcraft.

- Honourable Mention: Heroes of Might and Magic 2. Spent a lot of time here, as well. Town Building, Map Exploring, Relic Hunting, great fun. And lots of awesome creatures.

- Honourable Mention- Dune 2 and Dune 2000. Great games about one of my favourite universes. And the mission intros on Dune 2000 were awesome!

4) Half-Life

- Words cannot describe. Probably the most influential game in my library. It's. Half-Life.

- Honourable Mention: Unreal Torunament. Instagib Last Man Standing. My twitch was at its peak in my teens. I got to give it an awesome outlet in this game. Found some awesome servers and communities to play against here.

- Honourable Mention: Counter-Strike. Another twitch outlet, but with an emphasis on positioning, strategy, and anticipation. So many hours in this game.

- Honourable Mention: Natural Selection. Command Chair. One of the most stressful yet rewarding experiences in my gaming life.

5) Planetside

- Base Capture. Base Defense. Black Ops. Organization. Command structures. And I made friendships in this game that have lasted. An amazing gaming and social expereince.

- Honourable Mention: World of Warcraft. My first and best MMORPG. Nothing has really challenged it. Although I am long since finished with the game, still a cornerstone of y gaing career.

Oh, I am still gaming far too much, but these are my most influential.

 

[6urk17s]

Freelancer - My most favorite Space-sim...ish game. Discovery mod was even more awesome.

Star Trek Armada 2 - One my most favorite RTS games. I also liked for how easy it was to mod.

Blitzkrieg - Loved that game, I did not get far in it, but it still was fun to play.

Need For Speed: High Stakes - So many hours burned away in that when playing with friends.

Counter Strike 1.6 - Ehh while not really one of my favorites, it is one my most played games as it was on of the few games my PC ran.

 

[alphamalet]

Final fantasy . This game introduced me to jrpgs and thought me to read.

I'm sorry, but the irony in this is just too funny!

 

[Okulossos]

Quake 3 Arena:
it is the one game that brought online gaming and gaming communitys to me and that I played for most of my time as a gamer. It is, for me at least, still the best Multiplayer gamer out there, although I prefer Quake 1 for the most part I had to pick this one.

Star Control 2:
What can I say about this game... it is the best game ever made and will always be the best game ever made. It is pure greatness compiled and compressed to pure and refined greatness. I could tell stories about how that game influenced my life, but I should not need to, because the utter mention of the masterpiece should make it very clear how this game defined me as a gamer.

Distant Worlds:
The Game that re-introduced me to 4X-games and made me an addict till this day. This game simply has it all and I love it for that.

UFO - Enemy Unknown:
Yea well, it was the first game I ever bought and even though I did not understand much back then, I loved the theme and everything. When I picked it up later as a teenager I played it for hours on end and I still play it to this day, even though I mostly play terror from the deep, because it is just a bit more elaborate.

Goof Troop:
The first Game my Father bought be for my SNES back in the days. He played it with me a lot in Coop and thus it is just so full of wonderful and cherished childhood memories .

 

[Lucky Godzilla]

1. Metal Gear solid 3
What else can I say about this game that hasn't been said already? A masterful story, wonderful gameplay, and an amazing soundtrack. That and it was the first game to ever make me cry, and kick started my love affair with stealth games.

2. Halo 3
My first 360 game, and the game that got me into multiplayer shooters. I must have sunk more hours into that games multiplayer than any other FPS I have ever played. The Fact that it had one of the best halo soundtracks of all time didn't hurt either.

3. Bastion
This one made my list due to how much it surprised me with its quality. It wove one of the best video game stories of all time, and one of the most unique ways of telling it. Between the Narrarator's fantastic voice, the solid gameplay, and stellar soundtrack, how could I not put it on this list?

4. Fallout 3
I had never really been interested in RPG's until fallout 3 rolled around. And this game showed me exactly what I was missing, I have never been so absorbed in a world before this game.

5. Spec ops the Line
Anyone who has played this game in its entirety knows just how powerful it is. For those of you who have not, go out and buy it, you're doing yourself a disservice by not playing it.

 

[McGondy]

0. Some DOS atlas software

I was an odd kid...


1. Jill of the Jungle/Duke Nukem

Developed my compulsion for completion and high scores, and love of maze solving... and waking in the middle of the night to help my dad navigate the mazes =]


2. Hexen

The first game to make me scream in absolute terror.


3. NFS III (PC)

Not only introduced me to the racing genre, but to the "busting" genre (common victims included my dad and sister).


4. Vampire the Masqurade: Bloodlines

Hands-down one of the best written, and fan-loved games (It is still being patched!)


5. Freelancer

The first game to leave me in awe. On a side note, check out Star Citizen [http://www.robertsspaceindustries.com/] by Chris Roberts [http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cig/star-citizen], the creator of WingCommander and Freelancer!!

 

[lord.jeff]

Sonic: It wasn't my first introduction to gaming but it was the first time I really loved a game and the first time I gamed regularly.

Morrowind: My first time getting into a more adult and complicated game.

Devil May Cry 3: It's one of my favorite combat systems and the standard for how I judge other game's combat.

Golden Eye 64: What got me started on multiplayer games.

Zelda: I didn't play them as a kid but once the emulations came out I've gone back and given them a try and it is probably my most played franchise.