20 Mega Man 10 - The Mega Man series is one I that really doesn't need explanation. The simple fact that it has reached ten entries, not to mention numerous spin-off series, speaks volumes for the quality and lasting appeal. The only question is which one would make it on the list? For me, it was a close call between Mega Man 5 and Mega Man 10. Both games are viewed as somewhat lackluster compared to the likes of 2, 3, and 9, but in the end, Mega Man 10 is still my favorite game in the series. What really sets it apart for me is the darker tone and dreary atmosphere the game presents, which is a stark contrast to most Mega Man games. It really feels like everything is leading up to the penultimate battle with Wily. You've defeated him 9 times before, but this time it is going to end once and for all. Of course, this is all backed up with some of the best level designs in the series, a rocking soundtrack, and beautiful 8-bit visuals. Oh, and you can also play as Proto Man and Bass, need I say more?
19 La Mulana - I really had no clue what I was getting into with La Mulana when I bought it. I saw is had received positive reviews, so I went ahead and purchased it without any intention of playing it any time soon. A friend asked me to give some thoughts on it, any thus began my grand adventure into the world of La Mulana. Adventure really is the best way to describe this game. You actually feel like an adventurer, exploring new areas, fighting monsters, solving puzzles, and slowly unraveling the mystery of the temple. The journey is a very grand one, and it requires you to use your head and always stay on your toes. Nigoro crafted on of the most engrossing game worlds ever, and I was sad to see it go when I finally beat the game. If you have any interest in Metroidvania style games, 2D platformers, or just fantastic games in general, you can't go wrong with La Mulana.
18 Mega Man X4 - The Mega Man X series is somewhat overlooked when compared to the Classic series, and that's a shame. The most well known game in the X series is the original Mega Man X, but Mega Man X4 takes this spot on my list for a multitude of reasons. First off, you can now play through the entire game as everyone's favorite Maverick Hunter, Zero. This actually adds a lot of replayability since X and Zero have massively different playstyles along with unique abilities gained from defeated Mavericks. The upgrade to the Playstation brought beatutiful 32-bit sprites and CD quality music along with it. The cheesy anime cutscenes help tell a surprisingly entertaining story. Mega Man X4 truly is the full package, and is one of the most polished 2D platformers I've had the pleasure of playing.
17 Rollercoaster Tycoon 2 - Aside from basically being my childhood, Rollercoaster Tycoon 2 is just a ton of fun to play. Being a big fan of actual rollercoasters, having the ability to create my own crazy coasters is incredible. You can either take on premade scenarios with goals such as making a certain amount of money, having a certain amount of visitors enter your park, or keeping your park rating over a certain amount. If none of that tickles your fancy, you can create your own park from scratch with the game's expansive park editor. I always have a blast even when I'm just messing around with my park and building insane rides that none of the visitors are brave enough to ride.
16 Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest - The Donkey Kong series has always been one of my personal favorites, much in part to the Donkey Kong Country series. Of the three games on the SNES, the second is by far my favorite. For starters, it introduced a new partner: Dixie Kong. She is a lot of fun to use because of the hair twirling, gliding maneuvers you can perform with her. The game no longer takes place on Donkey Kong Island, but the dark and menacing Crocodile Isle instead. Because of this, the game has one of the best atmospheres in gaming. The island feels dirty, gloomy, and altogether depressing, much like you would expect an island ruled by banana thieving reptiles to be. This atmosphere is bolstered by the exceptional soundtrack composed by musical mastermind David Wise. I've praised the soundtrack of many games, but few come remotely close to this one. Despite being composed for a 16-bit console, it contains some really emotional pieces that are also incredibly catchy. The level design has also improved since the first game, partly in thanks to the more interesting locales. There are also an abundance of secrets and bonus rooms to find, so this game will keep you busy for awhile. Donkey Kong Country 2 has everything I could ask for in a platformer, and is not only one of the finest games on its system, but one of the best games you can play period.