#48: Rock Band 3

Rhythm/Music
2010

Rock Band 3 is a game which ranks among my favorite local multiplayer experiences in gaming. Being that each instrument (Guitar, bass, drums, vocals, and keyboard) offers a unique experience for each player, every person on the floor must succeed at his/her unique role to help the band move forward. It doesn't matter how good you're doing if the rest of your crew is struggling, so you're always there to support one another. Only when you're all successful is when your band truly shines, and in a world of competitive multiplayer, I always enjoy cooperative gaming. There was so many memories playing with my family and friends, and I'm glad to see that the genre has new life in Rock Band 4 and Guitar Hero Live. Hopefully I can get my hands on these games soon! I'm ready to rock once more!

#47: Pokemon Diamond/Pearl

RPG
2007

Pokemon Diamond/Pearl is usually ranked among the bottom of the mainline Pokemon barrel (I think Ruby/Sapphire takes that "crown".), and I can see why to a point. The overworld was much too mountainous, the legendaries at this point kinda jumped the shark in terms of design (I mean, just look at Dialga and Palkia), and the Pokemon class introduced isn't among the best out there (Rhyperior... why?). But Diamond/Pearl also introduced some fantastic additions to the Pokemon universe. First of all is Weavile, who is the best Pokemon ever. Secondly we have online battles, which got me into competitive Pokemon for the first time (Infernape, Tyranitar, Leafeon, Regice, Garchomp, and Alakazam was my first ever competitive team!), and they also made much improved gameplay changes (physical/special no longer being assigned by type was a huge move in the right direction). The game may not be the best that Pokemon has to offer, but it also is important to me in what it brought to the table.