It's time to play catch up before we start the top 10 
#15: Pokemon Gold/Silver (GameBoy/DS)
Release Date: October 14, 2000
Last Year: #16
By the time the year 2000 rolled around, I was a full fledged Pokemaniac. Pokemon cards, Pokemon: The First Movie, the Burger King Pokemon toys... I wanted it all. And when Pokemon Gold/Silver was announced for the GameBoy Color, it was the first game I ever pre-ordered (Silver version. Lugia is awesome!). Suffice to say, this game was one of my biggest hyped games ever. Still, when it came out... it was like a breath of fresh air. A new world to explore, new myseries to solve, and more importantly, we finally had new Pokemon to catch! Each new Pokemon is like a brand new event in the Pokemon world, and I fell in love with the world of Johto. The game also has one of the best ending surprises ever. The ability to travel to Kanto and then battle Red (that was me!) is still such a huge event in the world of video games. Pokemon Gold/Silver is truly a sequel that brings out the best in what it aims for.
Favorite New Pokemon: Tyranitar
Coolest HeartGold/SoulSilver Change: Secret battle with Geovanni
#14: Mario Kart 64 (Nintendo 64)
Release Date: February 10, 1997
Last Year: #15
Welcome to Mario Kart! Mario Kart 64 was my first Mario Kart... and the game holds so many fond memories that it's impossible to not see this game as anything but a masterpiece. Trying to find any "secret" in Peach's castle in Royal Raceway. Hitting a friend with a lightning bolt right when he's about to make the jump in Wario Stadium. Three friends firing a plethora of green shells from the top of Block Fort, with you trying to avoid them at the bottom. Chasing friends in Battle Mode as a Bob-omb. Gazing at the stars and other sights in Rainbow Road... I mean, this game is one of the few that really defined my childhood... and I'll always love it for that. Even now, I type all of this with a smile on my face.
Favorite Track: Bowser's Castle
Always Tried: To land on the Boat in DK's Jungle Parkway
