All time? Just 5? man tough choices...
Hmm...
Crash Bandicoot 3 definitely makes this list. It's my favourite 3D platformer ever. I love the levels, the characters, the way it's structured, and how much there is to do on it. I still have my launch copy to this day.
One of the PS1 Final Fantasy games has to make this list, but I can't decide which one. They all have their charms.
They were also the last Final Fantasy games I enjoyed. I did not like the route the series took from the PS2 onwards, with voice acting ("HAHAHAHAHAHA!", anyone who's played Final Fantasy X will know what I mean) , and Final Fantasy X being rather linear, XI being a fail MMO, and XII being an MMO style battle system on a single player game.
I think I'll choose Final Fantasy VII (oh so original I know) as I do like how it's kinda modern day and a little bit of Sci-Fi as opposed to pure fantasy, which I like. I also liked the materia battle system, as it allowed for a lot of customization (unlike IX's set classes), without being reliant on certain abilities being equipped (such as VIII's GFs).
I've also really enjoyed both Mass Effect games a hell of a lot, and as Mass Effect 2 was a big improvement for me, I add that to my list. Beautiful environments, great character development, fun combat, lots to explore, and it reunited me with my love of Sci-Fi Fantasy.
Sonic the Hedgehog (Mega Drive) has to be on this list of mine. It wasn't exactly my first ever game (that was Alex Kidd in Miracle world on Master System), but it was the first game that made me really get into gaming as a hobby. The levels, soundtrack, and boss fights are all so memorable. I still remember how much gamer rage Labyrinth Zone induced before I knew the game like the back of my hand...
Uncharted 2 is the final game I add to this list. This game had the most enjoyable way of story telling I have experienced in a game. Cutscenes weren't too long and drawn out, there were a lot of interactive moments, very cinematic game. The storyline wasn't my favourite game story, but the way it was presented was phenomenal. The gameplay felt smooth, and the controls were perfect. The camera angles too. I can't find a single flaw with this game.
tl;dr version:
1. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
2. Final Fantasy VII
3. Mass Effect 2
4. Sonic the Hedgehog
5. Uncharted 2