5. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Nintendo 64 (1998)
Nintendo EAD
The game that many consider to be the greatest achievement in gaming. Honestly, I can't disagree with that notion. It's accomplished so much and is a true example of greatness that is unique to our medium and no one elses. The silent protagonist that represents shoes that only the player can fill, revolutionary fighting mechanics that give each and every battle just as much ferocity as it does elegance. An epic quest full of diverse locations, huge monsters to destroy, unique items and weapons to master, and clever puzzles to figure out, a story full of smiles, tears, and plenty of surprises, and all of this in a living, breathing, 3D world to explore. In the end, Ocarina of Time means as much to me as it does any other player who's gaming life was changed because of this game. What more is there to say about it? In the end, the game is what it is: one of the greatest examples of this great medium that we love to engage in.
