15. Resident Evil 4 (PS2) (2006)
Yes, I know this game is pretty much on everybody's list, but can you blame them? It actually makes Resident Evil much more playable than before. They got rid of the "up middle down" aiming in the previous games and replaced it with a more accurate and practical manual aiming. And it works like a charm. The action is much more frantic than the past Resident Evils, with enemies coming at you from all directions, different shapes and sizes. But, they never were as cheap as the camera angles in the previous games.
I also felt that the quick time events in RE4 is probably the best in terms of execution, as you really feel like there is weight attributed to the events. The sequel had some improvements, but also took a step backwards with the lack of actual survival horror feel that the series is well known for. Yes, I only played the PS2 version which was the weakest in terms of visuals, but if the PS2 version already looked good, I can't imagine how excellent the Gamecube and the Wii versions' visuals are.
14. Mafia (PC) (2002)
This is the game that was responsible for my deep fascination with the mob, Mafia and eras that they were tied to. This is the game that made me watch The Godfather and Goodfellas. This game…is awesome. Though I've played the sequel and felt that it was better than this in almost every department, the story in the sequel was just left unfinished. I'm okay with cliffhangers, but at least leave us with a little closure, not stunned with such a shockingly dry conclusion after all the superb storytelling…
13. Circle of Blood / Broken Sword (PC) (1996)
Broken Sword was probably the first adventure game that got me interested in the once popular adventure genre. And it's also one of the best. I know the prospect of moving the cursor around the screen in hopes of finding clues to progress is not entirely appealing for gamers today, but to me at least, it was kind of compelling, especially the way the game's main character, George Stobbart narrates the story as you go further. The world of Broken Sword was hand painted beautifully, with characters that are well drawn and are given lots of personality and strong characterization. Brilliant stuff.
12. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (PC) (2003)
Knights of the Old Republic to me is the best Star Wars game, and probably one of the best RPG I've ever played. It had great turn based combat, great set of characters and a powerful story that will be remembered for years to come. Who would've guessed that *SPOILER OMAIGOD LOOK AWAY* unforgettable twist where you're actually the Dark Sith Lord Revan himself? Though clues have been given throughout the game, they were so subtle that you'll only piece the parts together when the twist unfolds. Thank you Bioware.
11. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (PS3) (2009)
Uncharted 2, not Metal Gear Solid 4 is the definition of cinematic gaming. While Metal Gear Solid 4 basked in the glory of fleshing out confusing storyline in long cutscenes and enigmatic (and sometimes silly) characters, Uncharted 2 was all about getting the player really inside the action. Action sequences that weren't possible years ago like the train sequence and the collapsing building scene is integrated seamlessly into the game, with astonishing visuals that rank among the best the PS3 could offer. The characters in Uncharted 2 may not have much to tell us, but they are defined extremely well, with Nate, Chloe and Lazarevic being my favorites. Ah screw that, I love em all.