The 40 Year Old Gamer:
The Most Influential Games of the Past Decade
Let the Debate Begin

Madden Franchise
First published in 1998, Madden has become an annual event in the world of gaming. In my opinion, the latest version is simply the best. The game play is solid and the graphics are absolutely incredible. What else can I say about Madden that has not already been said? (Xbox 360 and PS3),

God of War- 2005
God of War is an action-adventure game based on Greek mythology. The game was well received by critics and fans alike. It was also the recipient of many awards, including a number of "Game of the Year" honors. IGN named God of War as the greatest PlayStation 2 game of all time. A third title in the series, God of War III is currently in development for the PS3.

God of War is a third person action game that focuses on the player using melee attacks, magic abilities, and combinations of the two to defeat foes. In addition to the melee aspects of the game, the players are also required to solve environmental puzzles to advance (much like Tomb Raider). In fact, some of puzzle aspects require a great deal of thought and reasoning. The developers do an outstanding job balancing the action and puzzles and the game maintains a pace that never gets dull. (PS2 and PS3)

Gears of War- 2006 
Selling over three million copies in just ten weeks, Gears of War was the fastest selling video game of 2006. It was also and the second-most played game over Xbox Live in 2007. This third person shooter/adventure centers on the soldiers of Delta Squad as they fight to save the human inhabitants of the fictional planet Sera from a relentless subterranean enemy known as the Locust Horde. The player assumes the role of Marcus Fenix, a former prisoner and war-hardened soldier.

The game requires the use of cover and strategic fire for players to advance through the levels. Gears of War is also the first game to master cooperative game play through the main campaign. Although the single player campaign is well worth the price of admission, the cooperative mode is where the game truly shines. Playing through the campaign with a friend is one of the most addictive gaming experiences in gaming. With excellent game play and graphics, the game won several "Game of the Year" awards in 2006. (Xbox 360)

Metal Gear Solid: Guns of the Patriots- 2008
Metal Gear Solid (MGS4) is a technical masterpiece. The game provides the best blend of action and storytelling since Resident Evil 4. The animated cut scenes are major productions by themselves. In fact, one of the cut scenes ran almost an hour (bring on the popcorn).

The MGS4 story is set in 2014 where the world economy relies on continuous war, fought by private military companies, which outnumber government military forces. PMC soldiers are outfitted with nanomachines to enhance their abilities and control the battlefield. The control network created through these nanomachines is called Sons Of the Patriots (SOP). The plot is built around the game’s villain, Liquid Ocelot, who is plotting to hijack the system. The main character, Snake, is commissioned to terminate Liquid. MGS4 is a blend of stealth game play (like Splinter Cell) and action.

This is very smart game that requires thought and strategy. If you have not played MGS4 yet, I highly recommend checking it out. (PS3)

I recognize that opinions on the merit of games vary based on individual taste, choice of platform, age and gaming experience. So let me know what games made the greatest impact for you.

Charles White writes about gaming for EbonyJet.com. He also programs EbonyJet Radio and produces the podcast, The Turntable.

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