/vr/ - Retro Games

Yoshi's Island. Nothing else comes close. SMB3 and World had some great ideas, but the levels are ultimately too short, and the presence of time limits only discourages exploration. There are a lot of fine details about YI that I like as well: an in-level inventory, a scoring system that isn't arbitrary, a map system that doesn't involve tedious manual backtracking like SMW... It's just a way more polished game overall.

>>3029452

- All the power-up suits from SMB3 are gone
- The stage designs don't have SMB3's varied and colorful themes

Those were the only nitpicks I had. I nonetheless enjoyed the game, and it was a lot more expansive than SMB3. I still prefer SMB3 though.

Actually, I think Yoshi's Island is the best game in the series.

If you want to count Yoshi's Island since it was originally titled Super Mario World 2, then Yoshi's Island.

If we're sticking more to the mainline series, then it's a toss-up between Super Mario Bros. 3 and Lost Levels. I like Lost Levels for its difficulty curve, but SMB3 simply has way more variety and a much stronger atmosphere.

Based on popularity, I'd say SMB3 takes the gold for "best" platformer, although I personally thought Yoshi's Island was a much stronger game. It just never had the same following as SMB3.

As for best game overall, I want to say Vagrant Story. If we're going non-retro, then Fallout: New Vegas. Of course, not everybody likes RPGs. They don't tend to see nearly the same sales figures as platformers.

Don't forget Yoshi's Island. You had to grab flowers, red coins and stars to get a perfect score in each stage, which would then unlock bonus stuff.

The GBA port is also worth considering, as it adds a few extra stages and various aesthetic improvements. (Some of which may be arguable, if you're more of a purist)

Raphael the Raven's Castle - This stage alone makes made me fell in love with the game. I think it really showcases the creativity of the level design. You're navigating what is essentially an upside-down floating castle. The nighttime setting paired with the all the triangular, gaping walls creates a really interesting atmosphere.