Top 5 Virtual Console games released in 2009

The Examiner.com editor, Shui Ta, gives us his Top 5 VC Games of the year:

5. Earthworm Jim 2 (Sega Genesis)

The 16-bit gaming era was filled with many great 2D platformers. Earthworm Jim 2 is one of the best in the genre thanks to its quirky one-of-a-kind humor in addition to the diverse gameplay. So while the game may be insanely hard at times, the experience (especially the excellent soundtrack) is well worth the trials and tribulations in this classic Virtual Console game.

4. Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen Quest (Super Nintendo)

Before working on Final Fantasy Tactics, acclaimed game designer Yasumi Matsuno was responsible for another classic strategy role-playing game on the Super Nintendo, Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen Quest. This Virtual Console title features a deep class system to go along with the epic real-time strategy battles. The original retail product was considered to be a rare product. Fortunately, the 2009 Virtual Console release makes it readily available to gamers at a more affordable 800 Wii Points. .

3. Super Smash Bros. (Nintendo 64)

Nintendo has produced plenty of mascots throughout their long history. Super Smash Bros. brings the most iconic characters together. While the fan service is nice, the simple yet deep fighting system really shines with this Virtual Console game. Fights can also get chaotic thanks to environmental hazards and random items appearing on the field. While the sequels may be better, Super Smash Bros. still manages to be a fun and addicting experience.

2. Super Mario Kart (Super Nintendo)

Back in 1992, Nintendo decided to create an arcade racing game based around the universe of Mario with Super Mario Kart. That ended up being a brilliant decision as the game revolutionized mascot kart racers thanks to its creative track design, fun power-ups and cast of iconic characters. With two-player multiplayer support to boot, Super Mario Kart is one the best racing games available on the Virtual Console.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (Nintendo 64)

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask had to follow what many still considered to be the greatest game of all-time in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Instead of trying to replicate the same experience, the sequel took several risky leaps by adding a time limit to the equation. While this resulted in increased difficulty, it also makes the game feel fresh and unique compared to the later sequels that followed. Although it is debatable if the sequel ended up as good as The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, there is no debate that The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask is the best Virtual Console game released in 2009.

Honorable Mentions:
Blaster Master
Final Fantasy
Kirby’s Dream Land 3
Phantasy Star
Pilot Wings
Super Punch-Out!!
Zombies Ate My Neighbors

What Games would you add or delete from this list?

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