Final Fantasy 10 for me personally, but overall Halo may have been the best because of how it truly revolutionized it's genre.

Pro Evolution Soccer.

Voted for GTA 3 though

Also an honourable mention for Advance Wars

Shen Mue II by far, but what a great year for gaming in general.

I voted MGS2. It was a really great game in my opinion, despite having to play as Raiden most of the game. On the other hand, Halo was also a great game for its time. Had lots of fun on it as well.

FFX MGS2 is close.

FFX MGS2 is close.

Some Press choices:

Interactive Achievement Awards - Halo: Combat Evolved

AIE - Final Fantasy X

Edge - Halo: Combat Evolved

EGM - Halo: Combat Evolved

Eurogamer - Grand Theft Auto III

Game Informer - Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty

Gamespot - Grand Theft Auto III

Gamespy - Grand Theft Auto III

GDC - Grand Theft Auto III

IGN -Halo: Combat Evolved

IGN Reader's Choice GOTY (US) : Super Smash Bros. Melee

GameFaQs (US) : Final Fantasy X

Electronic Gaming Monthly(US) : Halo: Combat Evolved

Great thread for a great year in gaming :)

My pick is Halo: Combat Evolved, a near-perfect example of game design and presentation.

Ico is a close second.

Smash, followed by Halo.

wow, both Smash and Halo are almost catching up FFX