The 33 games you can't live without

We pulled together our lists of the top 11 games for each of the big three consoles and brought them together for some holiday merriment. If you're still looking for that last minute game for yourself... er, um, to give as a gift rather, then don't miss out on any of these stellar titles!

The three amigos, sharing yuletide bliss...

The three amigos, sharing yuletide bliss...


Table of Contents

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11. Wii Sports

There are a lot of entertaining mini-games for Wii -- Sports is simply the most influential and replayable one. Designed by the legendary Shigeru Miyamoto, this five-game compilation offers a jolly good time provided you play with others, attempt to acquire "Pro" status, or perfect your skills on one of fifteen training modes. Senior GamePro editor Chris Morell put it best in his review when saying, "Anyone who doesn't find at least some fun in Wii Sports has a heart of coal." Indeed. Wii Sports was (and still is) a delight -- in the right situation, of course.


10. Excite Truck

Available at console launch, Excite Truck was overshadowed by both Zelda: Twilight Princess and Wii Sports. That's a shame because this arcade racer produces a dizzying sense of speed and soaring jumps that make The Fall Guy look like an amateur. Despite its frenetic pace, driving stays manageable due to the forgiving controls. What's more, the unique star system offers a fresh take on finishing first, and the game looks surprisingly shiny when using component cables in 480p. Pay no mind to the mixed reviews, Excite Truck is a great game.


9. Tiger Woods 08

Released on the same day as Metroid Prime 3, it's no wonder this long-running golf game got overlooked. But you'd be remiss to pass it up. Woods 08 improves upon the already enjoyable 07 version in almost every way. Swings aren't as precise as the one-to-one controls found in Super Swing Golf, but simulated movements still provide a realistic sense of achievement, especially when cupping long shots. Overall, PGA Tour 08 is the best Wii golf game to date. If you've grown tired of thumb strokes, and crave more depth and options than Wii Sports Golf affords, you can't go wrong with this one. Go on, be a Tiger.


8. Madden 08

Contrary to what Spoticus, my fellow GamePro reviewer says, Madden NFL 08 for Wii is enjoyable in its own right -- even if it lacks the hi-resolution graphics and traditional features found in other versions. Motion-controls on the gridiron are truly engrossing, and the game does a great job courting former Madden players long since put off by the game's usual complexity. Mini-games, a party mode, and online play (without friend codes, mind you) atone for the fusty presentation and random bugginess, and prove that in addition to its uncommon gameplay, Madden on Nintendo hardware can no longer be considered an afterthought.


7. Elebits

Excited with the prospects of playing Ghostbusters on Wii next year? Do you like Half-Life 2's gravity gun? Then Konami's Elebits should be on your "must play right now list." Released in December of 2006, Elebits lets players use a "capture gun" to displace on-screen objects -- ranging in size from a kitchen plate to a downtown skyscraper -- to unearth hidden mole-like creatures that store electricity. It sounds weird, but it's ingenuously fun, especially as you progress through the longer, more expansive levels. Elebits: the ultimate rummage game, one of the most atypical experiences you'll find.


5. Mario Strikers Charged

Mario Strikers Charged galvanized the GamePro offices this year almost as much as Rock Band did (almost). This game is crazy good, and you don't have to appreciate soccer (or sports for that matter) to bask in the chaotic thrills of four-on-four footy. Technically, this title could be found on other consoles as motion-controls are used sparingly (i.e. slide tackles which are still gratifying). But Mario Strikers' unruly gameplay, timely power-ups, Jackie Brown-like music, slick presentation, and competitive online multiplayer should not be missed. Easily one of the most charming Wii games yet.


4. Guitar Hero III

Despite its inexcusable warts (mono-only sound chief among them), Guitar Hero III for Wii is a fine series debut on Nintendo appliances, not to mention the best game in the franchise. This proven fret-burner is addictive as ever; its set-list, face-melting. Furthermore, the Wii version sports the most convincing, functional, and weighted guitar controller of any version. To top it off, free online multiplayer is rock solid including Xbox Live-like alerts when sending friend invites. (Chat and IM are missing, unfortunately; Viva la text messaging!) With downloadable tracks and a surround sound fix just around the corner, Guitar Hero III should easily become one of the most lasting Wii games around.


3. Metroid Prime 3

If there was but one categorical "gamer's game" on this list, Metroid Prime 3 would be it: A familiar theme, unearthly surroundings, and impeccable visuals (the best looking Wii game save only Mario Galaxy). It also features challenging puzzles, unblemished production values (i.e. superb voice-acting, a rarity for Nintendo games), and tremendous boss battles. What Prime 3 lacks in originality, though, it makes up for with pioneering first-person shooter controls. They're so good, in fact, you'll wish every console shooter played this smooth. Nintendo calls them "Ultimate Controls." We say bring 'em on in copious amounts.


2. Zack and Wiki

In addition to winning The Most Unmarketable Name of the Year Award, Zack and Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure is an exceptional game, cuddly visuals notwithstanding. Wii Remote controls are well purposed, creative, and rewarding when solving one of the many point-and-click puzzles. The cell-shaded graphics are beautifully deep; the writing, witty. Capcom could have easily charged the usual $50 for this title. Amazingly, they only ask for $40, making it both a budget-friendly and hellacious game. Efforts like this should be rewarded so as to encourage their ongoing development. Buy this one.


1. Super Mario Galaxy

Super Mario Galaxy is spectacular -- namely its wondrous level design, imaginative use of gravity, and well-balanced motion controls. Graphically, the game oozes so much polish, you'll think you're looking at an early 360 game when played in enhanced definition with component cables. Never mind all that, however. Despite being the umpteenth sequel of the venerable series, Galaxy feels distinctly new. A game you'll never want to finish. One of the most memorable adventures released in a decade. Undoubtedly the best Wii game available.

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GuitarHero9

This list is retarded. You put Excite Truck and Wii Sports in there, but not Zelda: TP?!

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