Halo
Release Date – 11/2003
Used $10.99
Ebay $18 (which makes no sense…)
Erm, all I have to say about this game is, “DUH!” This game causes wet dreams for every teenage boy I know. In fact, the University of Washington had to put a ban on “Halo hours” because there was excessive shouting in every dorm on campus after 8pm. Every person I’ve talked to has played Halo, and at every party involving two or more dudes, this is the game of choice. Even if it is not the best game in the world, it is the most well-known multiplayer besides Goldeneye that exists. If you haven’t played this game, you are a loser, party of one.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
Release Date – 10/2003
Used $7.99
Ebay $5-10
Yes, this game is also available for the PC, however, I played it on Xbox, so there! Many may be thinking, “What? A Star Wars RPG? Not a FPS? How is this possible!?” Yes my friends, it is an RPG, although not exactly a traditional one. But that is beside the point. This is one of the best Star Wars games to have come out so far. Not only does KOTOR have a ton of content, it is actually fun to play. Lightsabers or guns? Light side or dark side? Your choice of actions determines which side you end up on. Be warned: those who choose the dark side lose their sunny complexion and age by around fifty years. It’s sad that this game has more of a compelling story than the three prequels being produced at the time. And the best part? No Jar Jar!!!
Gamecube
The Legend of Zelda: The Windwaker
Release Date – 4/2003
New $19.99
Ebay $7-10
One of the few Gamecube games to sport a stellar report card, Windwaker is a great addition to the Zelda collection. Don’t be fooled by the cartoon characters! The cell-shaded graphics are impressive and make for a great backdrop for the story. This game packs everything one would expect in a Zelda game, dungeons, bad guys, cool accessories, a girl to save, and Ganon. Also, it is surprisingly (and satisfyingly) violent… just look at the way Ganon goes out! There is a ton of exploration in this game, as most of it takes place in the ocean hunting for little islands. If you have a Gamecube, this game is one of the best for the console.
Lego Star Wars – PS2, Gamecube, Xbox
Release Date – 5/2005
New $19.99
Ebay $10
This game did come out for every console, but after trying it on Gamecube and Xbox as well, I decided to lump it under the PS2 category. Isn’t it sad how many of the best Star Wars games have nothing to do with the movies at all? KOTOR is like this, and we all know that the cast of the Star Wars prequels are not Lego characters. Simply put: this game is easy and extremely fun. Basically two buttons control your force and lightsaber and your goal is to kill as many baddies as you possibly can! Also, it is possible to play as every character in the game, opening up a number of possibilities for sidequests (such as collecting all of those pieces to build more spaceships!). One drawback is that the multiplayer sucks, but if you’re looking for a Star Wars single player, this game is the one. The Original Trilogy is coming out in September…..I can’t wait to see Harrison Ford as a Lego character….hawt……
