The Best and Worst Dreamcast Games (Sept 1999 to Sept 2000)

The Best and Worst Dreamcast Games (Sept 1999 to Sept 2000)

It's hard to believe that it's been a full year since Sega's 128-bit killer was unleashed. 9/9/99 will forever be burnt into our heads as the day that Sega, once again, immerged from the depths to deliver the next best thing. I was one of the thousands waiting in line at midnight to purchase Sega's monster. Games were in low supply, as Sega failed to rally the troops for the promised 20+ releases and I was left with few choices. Ready to Rumble was the first Dreamcast game that found it's way into my machine, but a short day later I was back at the dealer, trading it in on Soul Calibur. A wise move, indeed.



10. Sega Swirl
Ah, the simplicity of puzzle games. Swirl is available to anyone willing to purchase a copy of Sega's Official Dreamcast Magazine. Although the graphics and gameplay are somewhat ancient, the fun to be had with this title is undeniable. It's amazing that this game still finds it's way into my system on a daily basis. If you haven't checked it out yet, it's definitely time. This is the type of game that can be played forever.

9. Shadowman
Although I am a touch more fond of the 64 version, there is no denying the greatness of Acclaim's Shadowman. My only complaint with the title was the terrible load times. Regardless, this remains one of the systems deepest adventures. Taking Mike Leroi through Deadside is always a pleasure. The graphics are light years beyond the 64 and the gameplay is unquestionable. "Power of the Dark Souls, I embrace it."

8. Toy Commander
This early release was the first solid four player experience on Sega's system. The concept was brilliant and the level design remains among the most clever for the system. A terrific challenge and tons of replay value is all I need, as this game definitely delivers.

7. NBA2K
Among Sega's sport's titles, this one far outshines them all. The gameplay is tremendous. Sega Sports hasn't delivered the same quality presentation since. The crowd alone is enough to call this one a winner. Never before has a crowd's reaction been so properly gauged. Strategy, intelligence, and big plays make NBA2K a sure-fire winner for even non-sports minded gamers. The update version is due to hit the shelves in a few short months. Hopefully, Sega can add to the brilliance of this once in a lifetime experience.

6. Soul Calibur
I'm sure to get some heat for putting this one at number six, but I have my reasons. Soul Calibur was the first extraordinary game in the system's life. It holds up as well today as it did a year ago. All of the extras to be unlocked added tons of replay value to this brilliant masterpiece. And although the gameplay is virtually flawless, I do find it somewhat shallow in the challenge department. I enjoy a touch more strategy in my fighting games. It's a shame that the sequel will be making it's way onto the PS2. This is a major blow to Sega.

5. Street Fighter Alpha 3
I know, I know, I'm a Mortal Kombat junkie at heart, but one can't deny the greatness of Capcom's Street Fighter series. Alpha 3 for the Dreamcast is, without a doubt, the best of the series. A flawless presentation with loads of options and different modes of play. And let's not forget the incredible amount of SF characters. Capcom is fortunate that a ten year old game has stood the test of time. This one still outshines them all.

4. Crazy Taxi
How such a simple game has managed to keep my interest for so long is anyone's guess.The gameplay to be found in Crazy Taxi is pure ecstacy. I still hop on the ol' Rickshaw from time to time, trying to improve my cash flow. You haven't lived until you've been all the way through the city a couple of times. Non-stop action! A thrill every second of the way.

3. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater
Another lashing is coming my way for this one. It's true, there may never be another Dreamcast title with so much replay value. The thrill of skating anywhere, anytime, for as long as you like, is priceless.But there's a deeper chapter to this story in the form of Pro Skater 2. If it delivers the same quality with a touch of additional miracles, THPS 2 may end up being the Dreamcast's perfect treasure.

2. Soul Reaver
It's been nearly a year since we paid witness to this mammoth title. And it's also been as long since we've seen better. Soul Reaver captures everything right about the Dreamcast and shoves it in your face without warning. The puzzles are deep. The environments are unmatched. And yes, the gameplay is phenomenal. The upcoming sequel should prove to be a shining success.

1. Resident Evil: Code Veronica
That's right, a comfortable first place victory for Capcom's one and only. Some may shun the thought of this ranking, but consider that Tony Hawk and Soul Reaver are available on multiple systems and the choice becomes apparent. Code Veronica is the one game that can't be found on other systems. How many PSX freaks purchased a Dreamcast for this title alone? Capcom reserved their best RE effort for Sega's new machine. Folks, quite simply, that's saying alot. Code Veronica is spectacular in everyway. Plodding through the mansions and city streets has never been better. The atmosphere of this game is it's strongest asset. Extra modes, multiple difficulties, the list goes on and on. If you haven't played Code Veronica, then you haven't played a Dreamcast, period.

Honorable mention goes to the majority of Sega's sports offerings. Also, UFC looks to be a sure fire winner for next years rankings. I would have slipped it in there somewhere, but I'm not sure if I'll be playing it forever. Only time will tell. And people, there are tons of others just waiting for your enjoyment. Of course, Sega has let a few things pass them by as of late, so keep reading below for a look at the Dreamcast's more shameful moments.