Pick Or Pass On These Games And We'll Guess Your Favorite Console
- by William Caruana
- – on
- in The Geek Corner
Finding the right console can, at times, be a monumental task. There are a number of factors that gamers need to take into account from the cost of the console to the power, and, of course, the number of games available both exclusive and third party. These factors need a high level of careful consideration, as well as a number of side to side comparisons. However, arguably the best metric of determining what console is the perfect fit is the individual thoughts on the slate of games available on each respective console. As this can be difficult to do, we are here to help with this increasingly important decision.
In this quiz, we will present a number of different games. Many of these are exclusives, many of them are multi-platform. Some of them are even retro classics. The task of the player will be to pick or pass on the games. We must note, playing these games is far from a necessity in picking or passing, so feel free to read our write-ups to see if these games sound appealing. Once all of the games have been picked or passed, we will reveal the perfect console to own! Now get ready and enjoy the quiz!
Super Mario Bros.:
This video game is one of the most influential in history, having inspired generations of developers to make games of their very own (Wikipedia). Beyond the influential status of the game, there is still plenty to appreciate even today. The game is well designed, fun, challenging and helped start one of the largest video game franchises in the world. The big question is: is this game worth a pick or a pass? Be sure to pick carefully, a game like this deserves that much.
Metroid:
This game has been massively influential on game developers all around the world. It, alongside the game known as Castlevania, spawned a massive sub-genre of action games lovingly referred to as "Metroidvania" (a cheeky amalgamation of the two games)(Wikipedia). The game also surprised audiences around the world for featuring one of the first notable female protagonists in gaming. The big question is: is this game worth a pick or a pass? Ensure you are careful when making this decision, it can be vital!
The Legend of Zelda:
This game has been highly influential on a number of different games over the years. It was one of the first games to feature a large and expansive open world, which delighted audiences when it was released for the NES (Wikipedia). One of the other notable features of the game is the (at the time) revolutionary battery save option that allowed people to play their games without the need for long and complex passwords. This game spawned a large franchise that still continues to this day. The question is: does it deserve a pick or a pass?
Sonic The Hedgehog:
This video game was very popular when it was first released for the SEGA Genesis. While the Genesis was struggling against the NES at the time, this game helped it catapult up the sales charts, allowing for a more competitive market. The game was a massive hit and spawned a number of sequels, spin-offs and much, much more. There is even a feature film adaption starring James Marden and Jim Carrey set for release next Thanksgiving (IGN). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Banjo Kazooie:
This game was released originally for the N64 and in many ways improved upon the then young 3D platforming genre. It was a fun game that was tightly designed and features a number of different elements that set it apart from the competition. The game was later followed up with two sequels, two spin-offs and an extremely polished port released for the Xbox 360 and later the Xbox One through the compilation title Rare Replay (Wikipedia). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Crash Bandicoot:
This game was in many regards Sony's answer to Nintendo's dominance in the platforming market. These games were exciting, tightly designed and stuffed to the brim with great music and a number of genuinely funny jokes. This game was developed by Naughty Dog who later went on to make such games as Jak and Daxter, Uncharted and The Last of Us. The franchise later left the PlayStation for all other platforms. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Spyro The Dragon:
This game, similar to Crash Bandicoot, was another one of Sony's answers to Nintendo's dominance in the platforming market. This series of games were exciting, ambitious and full of different secrets to find as well as areas to explore. This game was developed by Insomniac who later went on to make such games as Ratchet and Clank, Sunset Overdrive and recently Marvel's Spider-Man. Similar to Crash Bandicoot, The franchise later left the PlayStation for all other platforms. Is this game (and its subsequent series) worth a pick or a pass?
Mario Kart 64:
This game brought the Mario Kart series truly to the third dimension. While the original game was made in a pseudo-3D style featuring an overhead camera similar to the ones found in early Legend of Zelda series. This game featured truly 3D graphics made with the enhanced power of the N64 and as such, the game was truly impressive and immersive. It is considered by many to be the best installment in the Mario Kart franchise. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Luigi's Mansion:
This game was Luigi's first time in the spotlight in a genuine way (he technically made his first starring role in the much-maligned educational game Mario is Missing). The game can be a tad spooky at times, but it is full of fun as well as a number of genuine challenges. While the game was released for the Gamecube originally, a remake and sequel were later made for the Nintendo 3DS and a third game is scheduled for release on the Nintendo Switch (IGN). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Super Smash Bros. Melee:
This game was the second in the Super Smash Bros. series and many believe that it is the best of the franchise. The game was well designed, incredibly fast and lent itself well to competitive matches. In fact, all of the subsequent sequels have been somewhat divisive only because of how engaging and impressive this game was. It is still played competitively to this game. Ths question is: is this game worth a pick or is a pass better suited for it?
Diablo III:
This game is the third installment in one of the most loved series of computer strategy RPGs out there. While the launch of the game left a lot to be desired to say the very least, subsequent updates were incredibly well received (Wikipedia). The game improved upon the other two in a number of key ways, and many have been clamoring for a sequel ever since. A mobile game entitled Diablo Immortal is on the way, but responses have been... mixed thus far. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Starcraft:
This game, along with its sequel, was incredibly well received. A deep strategy game, it has been a vital e-sport for many years, and fans, particularly PC games have fallen in love with the depth, the design and the sheer level of polish found within. Some even prefer it to the similarly designed Warcraft series, although opinion may vary from person to person. The big question after all of this is whether the game is worth a pick or whether a pass is better suited to it?
World of Warcraft:
This game was in many regards a large departure from the Warcraft series of strategy games, leaning far heavier into the RPG aspects of the series. The game was one of the first Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games or as they are more commonly referred to as MMORPGs. The game was a massive success and made the genre a genuinely viable concept. The game was tight, fun and pushed the boundary of the games at the time. Is it worth a pick or is it worth a pass?
PUBG:
This game is best known by the abbreviation PUBG but the full name of the game is actually PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds. The game in many ways popularized the Battle Royale genre wherein characters are dropped onto a large map and need to become the last player standing. The game was initially released for PC, later for Xbox One and only recently for the PS4. The question is, after all the hype, the lets plays, the montages, is it worth a pick or a pass?
League of Legends:
This game in many regards popularized the genre of MOBAs. It was a massively popular release, and many players around the world fell in love with the world as well as the characters. The game is not as popular today as it once was, but it still has a number of active players as well as a large following within the esports community. Players have fallen in love with the tight design, the strategy and more. The question is: is this game worth a pick or is it worth a pass?
DOTA 2:
This game, similar to League of Legends, popularized the MOBA genre. This game was developed by the geniuses at Valve, who are best known for a number of games with large fanbases such as Half-Life, Portal, Counter-Strike and much more. It is also one of the last games that Valve has developed in a really long time. After all of this, the question above all else is whether the game is worth a pick or is a pass better suited?
Minecraft:
This game was a massively popular hit when it was first released. The game features two key modes that were massively popular: the Survival mode as well as the Creative mode. The game is technically owned by Microsoft, but thankfully, they did not relegate the series only to PCs and the Xbox family. Instead, they made a commitment to release the game on all major platforms and they saw it through to the end. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Half-Life:
This game, as well as its sequel, are the crown jewels for developer Valve. The game is a first-person action game with a number of different enemies to fight as well as things to see and do. In the game, as well as its sequel, players take on the role of Gordon Freeman and guide him in his fight against the sinister group The Combine. Players have been begging for a third game for years, but their yells have thus far fallen on deaf ears. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
XCOM 2:
This game is the sequel to one of the biggest strategy hits in recent memory XCOM: Enemy Unknown. The game was a massive success, featuring a number of improvements on the original game. This game features a high level of strategy, as well as improved graphics and design. Many hope for a third installment in the franchise and knowing publisher 2k, we certainly not be surprised if one comes into fruition. The question after all of this is whether the game is worth a pick or a pass?
Undertale:
This independent RPG, developed and self-published by the developer Toby Fox, was massive hit both critically as well as commercially. Whereas many other games have players simply fight enemies, Undertale allows players to spare them. This leads to a number of dilemmas that gamers are faced with, as well as a number of different choices given their way. Toby Fox is now currently working on a prequel to the game that has been partially released. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Fallout 4:
This game returns players to the Wasteland, this time to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. While many of the enemies can be very spooky, there are friends willing to help such as a loyal German Shepherd dog, an intrepid reporter, a Super Mutant loyalist, a mechanical detective and many, many more unique characters. The open-world is vast and large and the combat is significantly improved from prior installments if missing some of the depth found in the prior installment New Vegas. I this game worth a pick or a pass?
Gears of War 4:
This game returns players to the world of the Gears of War series and things have changed in a number of key ways. Gone are the days of the Locusts, it seems there is a new adversary to overcome in their place. The characters are mostly new, the developer new, the combat changed and yet, there is plenty of familiar stuff destined to please long-time fans of the franchise while opening the door to newcomers. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Halo 5:
This game is the fifth in the long-running series Halo, as well as the second original installment to be developed in-house by 343 Industries instead of the franchise creators Bungie (Wikipedia). This game features everything that Halo players have come to expect, including top-notch gameplay, music and production values. The multiplayer leveled up in many regards but some felt that the single-player campaign took a bit of a back seat (IGN). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Forza Horizon 4:
This game is the latest in both the overall Forza series and the Forza Horizon series, following up Forza Motorsport 7 and Forza Horizon 3 respectively (Wikipedia). It has evolved in many regards from its predecessors with a new seasons mode, a number of larger levels and overall tightening to the controls. The graphics are also stellar, and the game itself won best Sports/Racing game at The Game Awards this year (The Game Awards). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Rare Replay:
This game is a compilation title showcasing the best of developer Rare (formerly known as Rareware and Ultimate Play The Game) (Wikipedia). Some of the titles including in this compilation include Banjo Kazooie, Banjo Tooie, Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts, Battletoads, Battletoads: The Arcade Game, Jetpac, Jet Force Gemini, Conker's Bad Fur Day, Viva Pinata, Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise, Perfect Dark, Perfect Dark Zero, Kameo... and many, many, many more. Needless to say, it is a great value for fans of the developer but personally speaking, is it worth a pick or a pass?
Titanfall 2:
This game was developed by Respawn (a group of former Call of Duty developers) and published by Electronic Arts or as they are better known, EA (Wikipedia). The game was released to critical acclaim and a large amount of love from a typically harsh audience (Metacritic). However, despite the love and positive word of mouth, the game did not meet sales expectations (IGN). Hopefully, as more discover the game, the franchise will continue to grow and flourish as it deserves. Is it worth a pick or a pass?
Star Wars Battlefront:
This Star Wars video game was developed by EA's division DICE and published by EA themselves. A reboot of the popular Star Wars Battlefront series, this installment was released to positive reviews and good sales. The sequel was a bit more divisive due to the prevalence of loot boxes, but these issues were thankfully patched out after launch and the reception has grown considerably warmer since. Is this game worth a pick or is it worthy of a pass instead?
Cuphead:
This game was developed by an independent studio and was released exclusively for the Xbox One (on the console side), as well as for the Mac and the PC (Wikipedia). This game features hand-drawn graphics in the style of old animated shorts that would be screened before films such as Looney Tunes and Merry Melodies. The game was critically acclaimed for its style, humor, design and above all, genuine challenge (Metacritic). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Sunset Overdrive:
This game was developed by Insomniac, best known for their work with Sony on games such as Marvel's Spider-Man, Spyro the Dragon and Ratchet and Clank. Despite their closeness to Sony, this game was actually an exclusive for the Xbox One and was just recently ported to Windows PCs as well. The game received good reviews for the humor, style, controls, and gameplay, albeit not as high as some of Insomniac's best games (Metacritic). Regardless, we think it is worth a play. Is it worth a pick or a pass?
Mortal Kombat X:
Mortal Kombat X is, as the name implies, the tenth installment of the Mortal Kombat franchise. It is bigger and better than its predecessors in a number of key ways featuring strong controls, a wide selection of characters, a number of... unique finishing moves and, of course, all of the less than friendly for work elements of the prior games. A sequel was just recently announced at The Game Awards and is set for release next year. As for this game, is it worth a pick or a pass?
God of War:
This game is the recent reboot of one of the most popular franchises on Sony's PlayStation series of systems. Released on the PS4 this March, this game was met with critical acclaim and commercial success (Wikipedia). In fact, just recently, they won the Game Award for Game of The Year, a particularly tough feat given the strength of the other contenders (The Game Awards). Is this video game worthy of a pick or is it worthy of a pass instead?
Marvel's Spider-Man:
This game was also released by Sony this year to a high level of critical and commercial acclaim (Wikipedia). Based on the popular character of the same name, this large open-world game developed by Insomniac allowed players to see New York City in a new and exciting way. It had a number f nominations at The Game Awards but was, unfortunately (and many argue unfairly) snubbed (The Game Awards). Is this game worth a pick or is it worth a pass?
Uncharted 4:
This game is the latest in the Uncharted series (barring an expansion that was also sold on its own), as well as the conclusion to the story of Nathan Drake. The game went through a tumultuous development cycle with franchise creator/creative leader Amy Hennig leaving developer Naughty Dog early into development (Wikipedia). However, despite this large set-back, Naughty Dog persisted and the end result was a critical and commercial success. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Horizon: Zero Dawn:
Horizon Zero Dawn was a game that had a lot of hype going into it and had to deal with a number of uphill battles. It was a new IP in a market that is highly dominated by sequels and reboots. It was released among many other hyped games as well as the anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch. Finally, it was exclusive to the PS4, potentially limiting its market. Despite this, the game was a massive success both critically and commercially (Wikipedia). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Street Fighter V:
This game is the latest in Capcom;'s long-running fighting game series. As the name implies, there are a number of fighters, and yes, they do typically fight on the street. The gameplay is as tight as ever and the competitive fun to be had is immense. It was released for the PS4 as well as the PC, but it disappointingly was omitted from the Xbox One due to an exclusivity arrangement (Wikipedia). An overall fun time, is it worth a pick, or is a pass better suited for it?
The Last Guardian:
This game has gone through one heck of a development cycle. Announced many years ago as a PS3 title, this game from the developer of Ico and Shadow of the Colossus Team Ico had a lot of hype surrounding it. And then... nothing. It was believed by many to be canceled until Sony re-introduced the game on the PS4. It was a pretty decent hit, although not on the level of Shadow of the Colossus, but many are simply happy it saw the light of day at all (Wikipedia). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Persona 5:
This game was released last year for the PS4 and PS3, and not on any other systems (Wikipedia). It was a massive critical and commercial success, solidifying Persona as one of ATLUS's top brands and showcasing the difference in sales between the series and the one it spun-off from Shin Megami Tensei (another excellent series that does not deserve to be overlooked). Despite the PlayStation exclusivity, it was announced at The Game Awards this year that the main character Joker will be coming to Smash Ultimate (The Game Awards). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
GTA V:
This game, much like the others in the series, features a large and expansive sandbox for players to explore with little in terms of limitations. Rockstar outdid themselves in a number of key ways, and the game is just a sheer delight to play. Here is hoping GTA VI lives up to the hype, but let's be honest, when has Rockstar Games ever let us down? Is this game worth a pick or is a pass better suited for it? The game is great but not for everyone!
Overwatch:
This game is a hero first-person action game developed and published by Blizzard, best known for their work on such series as Diablo, Warcraft, World of Warcraft and Starcraft. Needless to say, this game is very different, but that does not make it any less fun than the aforementioned games. Blizzard has continued to support the game and more heroes, stages and more are on the way. Is this game worth a pick or is a pass better suited for it?
The Witcher 3:
This game was developed by CD Projekt Red and based off of a series of books that translate to the same name (Wikipedia). A vast RPG with an open world to explore, The Witcher 3 was considered by many to be the best in the series. This was no small feat, as the other games, particularly The Witcher 2, received a lot of love in their own right. Is this game worth a pick, or are you better off passing on it instead?
Celeste:
This independent game, made by a small group in Canada, was released to critical and commercial success. Available on all major platforms, Celeste is a mature and deep game with a highly impactful narrative. The game won two major awards at The Game Awards, including the ever-important and desired Games for Impact award (The Game Awards). It is considered by many to be a must buy, and is very easy to get, but the question is: is it worth a pick or a pass for you?
Stardew Valley:
This game was developed by one man... let us repeat that. This game was developed by one man. A game, of this size, of this scope, of this quality, was developed by ONE MAN! Beyond the envy of seeing just how great ConcernedApe's work on the game is, this game is an immersive experience that brings the Harvest Moon experience to the current generation of gamers. Is this video game worth a pick or is it worth a pass instead?
Golf Story:
This independent game was released exclusively for the Nintendo Switch and was developed by Sidebar Games (Wikipedia). It was considered by many to be a hidden gem, and positive word of mouth caused the game to spread and grow in a way no one really expected. It is a deep roleplaying game that just so happens to be about golf, with golf taking the place of typical battle systems. Is this game worth a pick or is a pass better suited for it?
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild:
This game was a launch title for the Nintendo Switch, as well as a fitting swan song for the prior Nintendo console the Wii U. It was a massive hit both critically and commercially, earning the coveted Game of the Year award last year at the Game Awards (The Game Awards). This game combines the deep exploration of the 2D Zelda games with the narrative integration of the 3D ones to beautiful results. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Splatoon 2:
This game, released for the Nintendo Switch, was the sequel to the popular third-person action game Splatoon that was released for the Wii U. In the game, players take on the role of the Inklings and need to cover as much of a given stage as possible with their own color of ink in order to win. A single-player campaign also exists for those not into multiplayer. Is this game worth a pick or is it worth a pass instead?
Fortnite:
This game took the world by storm when the Battle Royale mode of the game was released. Developed by Epic Games, who is also known for their work on the Gears of War series, this game is far more cartoon-like and family-friendly compared to that. The game is fun, really hard to put down, and stuffed to the brim with character. Better yet, the Battle Royale mode is completely free, with only a few cosmetic upgrades for those willing to pay. Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Super Mario Odyssey:
This game brought the Super Mario series in a completely new direction that beautifully combined the old with the new. It is similar to Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine in that characters explore large hub worlds for a variety of different stars (or in this instance, moons). The game also features pretty large worlds for the series and some truly unique ones such as a modern NYC-esque city. Is this game worth a pick or a pass instead?
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee:
These games are remakes of the popular Game Boy game Pokémon Yellow with some new elements mixed in, as well as some elements from and integration with the ever-popular gaming experience Pokémon Go. The games are designed to be more accessible which turned off some long-time players, but makes the game easy to pick up and play (IGN). For the disgruntled core gamers, a more traditional entry in the series is set for release next year (Wikipedia). Is this game worth a pick or a pass?
Paladins:
This game features a number of similarities with Overwatch, and its Battle Royale mode features a number of similarities with Fortnite. However, there is a lot more to this game that those commonalities and the best way to discover the differences is to play the game yourself. It is completely free, has a large player base, and is available on every major platform. The question is, are you willing to give it a chance or will you pass on it instead?
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate:
This game was just recently released on the Nintendo Switch and has predictably been a major success, selling remarkably well and earning high critical scores around the board (Wikipedia). In this game, every character in the franchise is playable alongside a number of newcomers. The stages are a collection of old favorites with four new ones. The music is a collection of countless old and new tracks and remixes. Is this game worth a pick or is it worth a pass instead?
