- Video Games
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Samba De Amigo
- Platform:
- Sega, 1999
- Debut system:
- Arcade
There isn’t an award for happiest game ever, but if there were Samba De Amigo deserves Number One status. Shaking maracas to the tune of Samba De Janeiro is bliss.
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Football Manager
- Platform:
- Sega, 2004
- Debut system:
- PC
The term ‘Footballer’s Wife’ took on a new meaning as thousands of wannabe football managers found refuge inside Championship Manager. The game’s original creators now make Football Manager for Sega.
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Ridge Racer
- Platform:
- Namco, 1995
- Debut system:
- Arcade
In addition to finishing first, Ridge Racer introduced the goal of driving with style, using commentary to congratulate drivers for their slickest manoeuvres. Gameplay as tight as its nightmare bends!
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Samurai Shodown II
- Platform:
- SNK, 1994
- Debut system:
- Arcade
Represents the art of the 2D fighting game at its most exquisite. Flamboyant but authentic Japanese themes forge its unique character. Refined, weapons-based combat tempered its classic game play.
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Pac-Man
- Platform:
- Namco, 1980
- Debut system:
- Arcade
When Pac-Man arrived, its peers were mostly serious shooting games. Namco’s charismatic icon broke the mould with a playful theme, wokka-wokka sound effects and funky music. Girls loved it too!
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Sonic the Hedgehog II
- Platform:
- Sega, 1992
- Debut system:
- Megadrive
Hedgehogs once emerged at night to nibble breadcrumbs and drink saucers of milk... or become road kill. Sonic made the humblest of creatures a superhero! This sequel really razzle dazzled.
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Ultima Online
- Platform:
- Origin, 1999
- Debut system:
- PC
Established the ‘Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game’ genre, and remains the most customisable realm in cyberspace. If you like you can spend all day earning skill points in tailoring!
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Deus Ex
- Platform:
- Ion Storm, 2000
- Debut system:
- PC, PlayStation
As a futuristic anti-terrorist agent you toy with amazing gadgets and weapons, but it’s how the plot develops according to how you approach the game that makes Deus Ex brilliant.
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Bust a Move (‘Puzzle Bobble’)
- Platform:
- Taito, 1994
- Debut system:
- Arcade
Shoot bubbles into clusters of other similar bubbles to burst them with a satisfying pop. It’s a cute variation of Tetris, and similarly relaxing... until those bubbles come crashing down!
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Castlevania IV
- Platform:
- Konami, 1991
- Debut system:
- Super NES
Simon Belmont’s whip makes Castlevania ‘cracking’: swinging around like Tarzan, or lashing like Indiana Jones. This is his ultimate adventure, with myriad special effects, jaw-dropping boss battles and unforgettable music.