The TOP 10 Games of ALL TIME | State of the Arc Podcast

[@mysteriousfigure3808]

I think we all won. Because you are still here. Your courage, empathy, curiosity, and your kindness for yourself, for the ones you love, and for this world won over the fear. As it should. I am so grateful for it. Thank you for everything. I love this channel! The passion and hard work you guys put into it makes it one of the many great beautiful things that helps me smile at life when at times I would often not.

[@sengao5180]

Damn... It's really not just Mike and Casen that make this channel great, it's the audience they draw. Thanks for sharing.

[@aarons.2323]

Well said!

[@loungecrooks7960]

this!

[@DavidZCheng]

Well said

[@eternalbraid]

💯

[@adamlogan9011]

Hello Mike, It might not mean much coming from a stranger on the internet, but I really related to all the stuff you've been saying about depression, and the "death questing" in your 20s. I very similarly had constant spells of depression at that time in my life to the point of suicide ideation and attempt. I am in my 30s now and in a far, far better place with support from family and loved ones. I just wanted to say that your podcast has helped me through some really dark times in my life and has changed my life. I appreciate all the care and attention to detail you and Cassen put into these videos, they're really some of the best content on all of the internet on story telling in video games.

[@ResonantArc]

It means the world to me! Thank you for taking the time to write this wonderful message.

[@JSCG12]

Mike, so many times when I watch the content on this channel do I feel a deep sense of relatability to the perspectives you share and conclusions you draw when comparing them to experiences I've had in my own life. Many of the questions, doubts and fears you endeavor to explore are ones in which I have also spent the better part of two decades contemplating. Not trying to say I know you just from what you've decided to share with the world through this podcast, but I am confident that we would get along famously had we known one another in real life. Its really a joy to finally come across a perspective that is so in lockstep with my own while also one who recognizes the value in being open-minded and curious after many, many years of feeling like nearly everyone else in the world is a confused, dopamine addicted moron. I'll never be able to properly articulate myself in just a comment without this turning into a massive novel but thank you for being rational and adding a valuable and nuanced perspective to many topics myself and others find stimulating.

[@ResonantArc]

It means so much to me that you would take the time to write this. Thank you so much!

[@dylangirard4670]

Mike, listening to your story about depression and outer wilds really hit me. I played the game around April of 2023, and that game truly shook me to the core. November 2022 my second kid was born, I was dealing with incredibly stressful work stuff, and for years I had been dealing with depression from an incredibly toxic and narcissistic mother and brother. In October 2021 she got hit head on by a drunk driver going 60mph. Mid 2022 I started to catch on to her becoming addicted to pain meds and turning to heroin. February of 2023 I had to cut contact with her because she nearly led me to the brink of suicide. The grief from having to end things with her and my brother the way it had to be done was heartbreaking, but outer wilds helped me come to terms with it somehow. Thanks for sharing, and thank you for still being here.

[@Ricardo-0]

This channel is a treasure. Thank you guys for the hard work you put on all discussions!

[@rdrouynriv]

Oh geez. Something more controversial than localization.

[@chade6514]

Here's where they get the gamergate 3 people to swarm the channel lol

[@MasterAngelification]

😂

[@Brendan_Myers]

@rdrouynriv Small world, go Hawks!

[@rdrouynriv]

@@Brendan_Myers haha, when youtube stream interests collide! go Hawks indeed!

[@FredMaverik]

@@chade6514 what gamergate boogieman is scaring you?

[@shayne1062]

You two are powerful orators; I could 'feel' the reasons for your choices, and that is something truly special.

[@samcherry120]

You remind me of myself a lot, Mike. I'm only a few years older than you guys. That Xenogears podcast series you guys did got me through some dark times, and I can speak on behalf of the entire Xenogears fan community that this podcast is a true gift. Keep on keeping on, brother. 2 Timothy 1:7.

[@TheMetalGaia]

Mike, I really appreciate you talking about your struggles. I had similar dark days myself. I'm so glad you're still here. Your content made me fall in love with RPGs all over again. ❤

[@guuppa]

Those #1 game explanations were so raw and unfiltered. Actually incredible channel

[@ToddMa09]

Casen mentioning Landon has me thinking how fun it would be for some of us long time viewers to see him pop back in for an episode someday. Would be awesome if he could make that work, but if he can't, let him know that we still think of him and hope he's doing well!

[@tacobales]

Yes !

[@davidj5768]

Yes, please. I miss Landon!

[@ClankStarr]

Seriously, have Landon on for just one episode again!

[@michaelhorvath62]

I came to the comment section to make this comment lol

[@TheMetalGaia]

Agreed! I miss him.

[@RoySamuelClark]

Thank you both for sharing your thoughts and experiences. This is a corner of the internet that should be treasured and appreciated, and I feel lucky to be able to listen in on it as much as I do. The insights, transparency, and mindfulness that naturally come across during these episodes is astounding. Stay cool

[@vitmello]

Beautiful episode! Mine would be: 1. Chrono Trigger 2. Baldur's Gate 3 3. Final Fantasy VI 4. Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of Amn 5. Final Fantasy VII 6. Breath of the Wild / Tears of the Kingdom 7. Symphony of the Night 8. Arkham City 9. Street Fighter II 10. Shadow of the Colossus

[@mandoloriansoju3841]

SOLID!!! 🔥🔥🔥

[@lolimmune]

An excellent list.

[@buuga610]

SotN = GOATn

[@MR_ARKANSAS]

glad to see someone else acknowledging what a great accomplishment BG3 is.

[@trollingisasport]

Now that's someone I could be friends with

[@RyanJohnson09]

You two are really something special. You both have beautiful souls and could feel the emotion and passion quite deeply. I find it difficult to rank and pick a winner as we're all winners talking about the most special games we love ❤️ For me I'll try rank my favourites too 1. Final Fantasy X 2. Catherine 3. Final Fantasy VII 4. Persona 4 Golden 5. Resident Evil 5 6. Devil May Cry 5 7. NieR Automata 8. Dark Souls 9. Gravity Rush 2 10. Silent Hill 2 Honourable mentions would be so many to list but i do truly love Outer Wilds aswell and personally find the unknown to be so freaky but simultaneously beautiful and profound and was in tears at the end. MGS3, RDR2, Xenoblade 1, Time Crisis 2, Bloodborne, The Witcher 3. I could go on. Thanks for always being honest and open Mike and Casen, two absolute legends and my favourite guys to chill with some analysis with 🌟

[@adrianvictorv]

Baldur's Gate 3, Super Mario World, Link to the Past, Final Fantasy X, Nier Replicant, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Triangle Strategy, Fire Emblem Three Houses, Star Ocean Second Story R, Octopath Traveller II

[@speaksincircles]

broooo triangle strategy

[@jedfactor7093]

Three Houses yeaah boi, one of my favorites of the more modern games. Most of mine are from SNES, N64, PS1, PS2 eras.

[@thomasrosendahl2783]

A list of best video games only count, if it is an objective take on it. Red Dead Redemption 2 or Witcher 3 beats most of the games you mentioned except Baldurs Gate 3.

[@adrianvictorv]

@@thomasrosendahl2783 I suppose my comment doesn't "count" then. That's nice to learn. Thank you for educating me on the meaninglessness of my existence. *Fades into the abyss*

[@jedfactor7093]

@@thomasrosendahl2783 how is the Witcher 3 objectively better than Super Mario World? Not even in the same genre. Witcher 3 is better than Witcher 2 sure. Gaming is mainly subjective, there is no objective list of best games.

[@nickhurst4772]

Mike, I've heard you talk about it since I started watching....I wanna read this damn book you're cooking up lol

[@coleyx18]

This was maybe my favourite episode you guys have ever done, just because of the way your experiences with the games was about so much more than just gameplay or surface level things. I think a lot of people really appreciate the depth you bring to these videos and how thought out everything is, in a world where everything else is a two second short or trend. All that being said, Casen has to win this due to the inclusion of my all time favourite game FF9. That game fully changed my world view and formed my thinking and approach to life.

[@asdioh7371]

I haven't watched it yet, but I know Outer Wilds is Mike's #1 at least, based on his reaction during their videos about it, and his praise for it in videos since then. I feel the same. I remember how excited I was to see them cover Outer Wilds, because I had played it earlier that year, and I did not expect it to become my favorite game of all time. It's one of those games that is just more impressive and emotional the more you think about it, even as time passes, and I have never in my life watched so many youtube playthroughs of people doing blind playthroughs, just to see people experience that feeling for the first time!

[@jacobmonks3722]

I'll limit myself to 1 per franchise, so the whole list isn't just Xeno, Metroid, and Zelda games. 1. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 2. Zelda Majora's Mask 3. Super Metroid 4. Celeste 5. Chrono Trigger 6. Mega Man X4 7. Final Fantasy IX 8. Donkey Kong Country 2 9. Sonic (X Shadow) Generations 10. Portal 2 I love a good story, but if the game isn't fun to play, I'll put even the simplest games over them, so my favorite games tend to be platformers. Celeste, DKC2, Mega Man X4, and Sonic Generations are on the list because they represent the absolute peak of the platforming genre, in my opinion. DKC2 is the perfect pure 2D platformer, Mega Man x4 is the perfect blend of 2D action and exploration, and Sonic Generations is the best 3D platformer I've ever played. Celeste takes the top spot because it tells an amazing story on top of its excellent gameplay. Xeno as a series has changed my life. It morphed my perspective on world conflicts, social structures, relationships, and what my purpose in life should be. Xenoblade 3 does the best job of doing all of that while being an incredibly engrossing game with deep class mechanics, crunchy combat, and rewarding exploration. Zelda Majora's Mask defined my childhood. It gave me a taste of what real doom and grief could feel like, which is extremely important for a kid to be exposed to, especially in a way that inspires hope like Majora's Mask. You see the struggles of all these people, pointlessly bickering or lamenting while the world around them crumbles, and all you have to do is lend a helping hand, and you could change someone's entire life and outlook. It's really quite beautiful. Super Metroid and Chrono Trigger in my opinion are the most perfect video games ever made. They both demonstrates every reason why video games are such an amazing entertainment medium. Experiencing stories through interactivity is unique to games, and I haven't seen many games take advantage of that to the same degree that is also a solid game on top of it. Journey is wonderful, but the gameplay is far too simple for my tastes. Super Metroid's character progression is addicting, and Chrono Trigger has one of the best parties to play with in any RPG. Final Fantasy IX gave me two things: an appreciation for music in video games, having what I believe to be one of the best soundtracks ever produced, and it gave me one of my favorite characters ever and an inspiration for me, Zidane Tribal. You don't need a reason to help someone. I didn't play Portal until way later in life, but it is one of the best comedic stories I've ever experienced, and the effort from the developers is insane. The amount of optional dialogue for the most niche circumstances is mind blowing, and it's all so witty and charming. Both of you guys have great lists, too. I have Outer Wilds and Hyperlight Drifter on my todo list, and I hope they impact me the same way they did you guys.

[@mandoloriansoju3841]

SOLID!!!!! Love the diversity and love that Majora’s Mask and Xenoblade 3 are top 2! 🔥

[@goopstack]

DKC2 Mentioned ! also Portal 2 is a goated pick. i might have to find a spot in my top 10 for that one

[@demi_diamond]

I remember when Mike uploaded his review and retrospective on Chrono Trigger. I still can't believe that it's no longer Mike's number 1 favorite game of all time by how much his description of the game and his reasoning deeply resonanted with to a subconscious level. But it just goes to show how as you grow older and become more wiser your taste in your favorites changes. Chrono trigger is in fact my favorite video game of all time, much to same reasons as to why Mike loves it. Its a part of my life and the very thought that with age it probably wont be a favorite of mine forever scares me but I am hopeful and positive that there is a game out there that will move me to a deeper level than Chrono trigger. Great job with the work you've done over the years guys. Over the years, you uploading every Wednesday gave me a reason to keep going and was something to look forward to in life. I always felt that i was learning something new in every episode of your guy's podcast so i just wanted to say thank you for everything. You've sold me on Outer Wilds.

[@DeffoZappo]

I am so glad I grew up with Chrono Trigger and that I just went to the video store and rented it. No Internet, no idea what I was in for. Thank you God

[@belkazebra6377]

A little eclectic (and in no order) but.. - San Andreas - Streets of Rage 2,3 - Symphony of the Night - Valkyria Chronicles - Breakquest - Lost Odyssey - Pro Evolution Soccer 5,6 - Dark souls - Shadow of the Colossus - Dreamfall

[@legattostacatto4805]

Pes was so good back at the day. Used to spent hours playing with my friends. Soccer games sucks nowadays.

[@edgemaverick2079]

My Top 10 Games 1- Recettear an item shop Tale 2- Atelier Rorona 3- Atelier Totori 4- Atelier Meruru 5 - Atelier Ayesha 6 - Atelier Escha and Logy 7- Atelier Shallie 8- Atelier Firis 9- Atelier Sophie 10 -Atelier Ryza I love all Gust Games ❤

[@mo_musashi_284]

seriously? 😂

[@crissepiroth]

why? bring arguments

[@JSCG12]

Mike wins automatically for Casen's inclusion of Nancy Drew as an honorable mention.

[@darius410]

1.Xenogears 2.Chrono Trigger 3.Metal Gear Solid 3 4.Final Fantasy Tactics 5.Final Fantasy 10 6. Zone of the Enders 1&2 7.Legend of Zelda ALTTP 8. Final Fantasy 6 9. Final Fantasy 7 10. Secret of Mana Honable mention- Elden Ring, Red dead 2, Streets of Rage 2

[@rogue_newtype4364]

Mike & Casen you both won my dudes, and Mike thank you so much for sharing your personal struggles & very personal information with all of us, I’m happy you are apart of this world & you’ve made it a better place my friend.

[@Denial210]

This was awesome. I remember Mike talking about Terranigma before and I was so surprised and excited when it happened. To see it on his number 2 here just made me smile. Needless to say I'm looking forward to the podcast on it. This was my first SNES game (I got it in a console bundle when I was 8) and I will make sure to save a place for it in my top 3 forever. Of course I was way too young to fully understand what the game wants to communicate when I first played it. But I loved it anyway and this love just grew with the years and every time I played it getting older.

[@aaronhigham1251]

Been there at the finish line Mike. Good on you for taking that step back. This is one of my favourite episodes so you clearly made the right decision 😁

[@valiagelegato]

Your podcast is filling a cavity that is a spiritual delight and may one day contribute to xenogears being resurrected beyond saga/blade. My wife and I are deeply impressed with both of you. Also, I was quite surprised Automata didn’t make either list or even an honorable mention. I suspect there’s a reason for that and curious to hear the answer when/if you have the time.

[@royaltyalign417]

I loved how they named a good amount of non Square games in their list. I never heard of Outer Wilds before. Gotta check it out

[@franklin_txr]

Fantastic video. I didn’t expect to get emotional watching a top 10 list video, but here I am. The majority of those same games touched me in similar ways and around the same ages as you guys. I’m from Brazil, and what I know of English and Japanese is because of RPGs. I wouldn’t be a writer if it wasn’t for games. They have helped me understand my own sexual orientation in a manner I didn’t even realize was happening at first. I also relate to Mike’s experience with depression in some ways, and games helped me have a different outlook on life the same way it did for you two. Ocarina of Time, FFVII, Chrono Trigger, and more… They have changed me in so many ways. They live in my mind forever, still inspiring me to this day. It keeps happening in my adulthood, both with old new games. And seeing my niece becoming a fan of Lucca while she plays Chrono Trigger with her father is truly special. I’m lucky enough to have a brother and close friends who understand all of this. Still, most of most of the people I know don’t play videogames and don’t really grasp the feeling of being immersed in a different world for hours and hours, and being so deeply affected by it. I’m a better person because of videogames, and this conversation resonated with me on a deep level. Sorry for not being able to choose who “won” though, haha. But once again, thank you for this channel. Thank you for sharing your passion with us.

[@kewincesar6956]

Mine would be: 10 - Xenoblade Chronicles 2 (With Torna) 9 - Batman Arkham City 8 - Super Mario World 7 - Shadow of the Colossus 6 - Resident Evil 4 5 - Zelda Ocarina of Time 4 - Mass Effect 2 3 - Final Fantasy 7 2 - Metal Gear Solid 3 1 - Kingdom Hearts 2 Final Mix

[@JCDadalus]

Mike, Casen, you guys are doing an amazing job with this podcast. Much more content and topics that are very cool to get both sides from. Keep it up gentlemen, well done. You both win lol

[@johnguthrie8798]

They need to do the original Deus Ex at some point.

[@ProcakeMan]

@@johnguthrie8798 Definitely. A channel that talks about the literary quality of games should definitely cover it! One of the best games ever made.

[@TheCmurley131]

@@johnguthrie8798 Man I was about to write this comment and then I saw yours! It's a Top 3 favorite game of all time for me easily and it deserves a deep literary analysis.

[@KingMatthewx]

Ahah the perfect podcast to finish your day with . Thank you guys !

[@lolimmune]

Time to summon old nerds My top 10: 10: Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 9: Breath of Fire 3 8: Starcraft 7: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night 6: Smt3: Nocturne 5: Megaman Legends 4: Crono Trigger 3: Armored Core 2: Dino Crisis 1: Final Fantasy Tactics

[@Seomus]

Breath of Fire 3. Love that game.

[@LS1Highwind]

This list is why I don't make lists: would have accidentally left out SOTN holy shit that may be a top FIVE for me 🤘

[@lolimmune]

​@LS1Highwind hell yea sotn slaps so hard, Alucard is a wonderful character.

[@fabriziomatillana4437]

My Top 10 10 - Resident Evil 2 (remake) 9 - Dragon Quest XI 8 - Mario Paint 7 - Mass Effect 6 - Castlevania SotN 5 - Chrono Trigger 4 - Eastshade 3 - Tomb Raider 2 - Final Fantasy Tactics 1 - Final Fantasy VII

[@ChocolatierRob]

Well this video has convinced me that you guys need to do executive decisions more regularly. Polls are fine but the format is a bit flawed in that there are plenty of amazing games that aren’t well known enough to ever be voted in by enough people. I recommend only using polls for every other game and you guys deciding between yourselves for the rest.

[@KnightGamer724]

I'd honestly love if they did a rotation. Mike picks a game, then Casen, then a poll. Repeat.

[@savage7832]

This channel is something else. You guys are one of the best things that could happen to the internet and more importantly to my life. Thank you for all your time and dedication!

[@Joelpd666]

Gentlemen I am having a terrible Tuesday and that Wind Waker story about your brother not having the sail had me grinning so wide. Thank you for that.

[@Kvelertaknes]

Listening to these podcasts over the last month has meant the world to me. It has affected me and my everyday life in a profound way. Thank you guys so much for sharing your in-depth thoughts about these games and their connection to your personal lives❤I am truly greatful.

[@KaitoverMoon]

I was tearing up reminiscing hearing you guys talk about Harvest Moon 64. I was one of those kids too. We really should have fun episodes like this more often.

[@aarons.2323]

My own top 10, right now: 1. Final Fantasy VII 2. Final Fantasy VIII 3. Shadow of the Colossus 4. Bioshock 5. Mass Effect 2 6. Bioshock Infinite 7. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth 8. Final Fantasy VII Remake 9. The Last of Us 10. Persona 4 Yes, that's A LOT of Final Fantasy, especially VII. And while I do think Square Enix has whiffed a few things in the remake project, what those games (and even the ridiculous Advent Children) all boil down for me is... the characters. When I think of my first time playing FF7, I fell in love with that cast. And in my opinion, the remake games have done a pitch perfect job of how I have always interpreted those characters to be. So I can complain about plot ghosts, whispers, frustrating minigames, undermining Aerith's death, and so on and so on and so on forever. The remake games display those characters that I have loved so much for so long so perfectly that I can be very, VERY forgiving about the rest. Part of me is dreading part 3, but part of me is just excited to spend more time with the characters I hold so dear. Now, with all that said, I would have Xenogears and FFX just on the periphery of my top 10. I almost think my top 20-25 could all be in my top 10 depending on what year it is. These two gentlemen made me love FFX more, as well, so I'm glad to hear that their own appreciation for the game rose significantly, as well.

[@germanasensio2730]

I’m 50 minutes in and enjoying this immensely. The vibe, the nostalgia and the respect with which you talk about these games, formative experiences for you in many ways… it all resonates with me on a deep level. This is an amazing episode, thank you so much.

[@TheRadDabber]

On the Witcher 3: I basically played through this game with my only familiarity with the setting being a partial playthrough of the Witcher 2, and I really liked the game. Then I read the books, and played through again. I was blown away at what a good job the developers did in designing the gameplay to largely reinforce approaching situations the way Geralt in the novels would have. It gave me a whole new appreciation of the game. Also Heart of Stone is probably my favorite DLC of all time, so good.

[@Rennat9002]

I have read the books, but haven’t play any of the 3 games. I’ve been wanting to re read and play them all.

[@Beef3E]

That Super Mario RPG Remake impressions video you guys did was fantastic. You brought it up here and I was reminded just how joyful it felt. I know a lot of us come here for the deep dive discussions, but I got to say, just seeing you guys light up, reminisce, and have fun playing a game you love was really nice to watch. Maybe you guys could occasionally record something like that for the other games in your top 10? Thanks for all you guys do. It means a lot. And I'm happy you're still here with us, Mike.

[@crissepiroth]

dude I randomly clicked on this video and for real this is how I speak to people willing to listen, about games. I get extremely enthusiastic and could speak about games like this for hours and hours!

[@ZakuroTL]

My personal list before listening! In no order. 1. Mega Man X2 2. Nier: Automata 3. Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze 4. Xenogears 5. Final Fantasy IX 6. Celeste 7. Umihara Kawase 8. Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance 9. Touhou: Imperishable Night 10. Hollow Knight Honorable mentions to Kirby’s Return to Dream Land and Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky. I’m sure I’m forgetting some gems but those were the first 10 that came to mind.

[@Phil_597]

I went through a lot of effort trying to find and remember all my favorites to put together my own list before watching, but I completely forgot about the Touhou series. #8 is my favorite one too, but didn't quite make top 10.

[@ArcadianGenesis]

I love hearing other people's top 10 games because every choice is deeply personal. We all have a story to tell for every game in our top 10. Each one represents a specific era in our lives, and it operates on a level that nobody else could ever fully understand without *being* you. For me, Team Fortress 2 is my version of Casen's Splatoon. It's the only MP game on my list, but I put thousands of hours into that game, so it simply must be in my top 10.

[@coreyrachar9694]

I think I would honestly say that xenogears is one of my favorite games ever and I've never actually played it. It's thanks to this podcast I was exposed to it and able to experience it in such a profound way. The xenogears podcast was for sure your guys' best work to date imo and I've watched it twice already - It sent me down a pretty huge rabbit hole of enlightenment in the end. I know you guys said you were never going to do something like that again, and that's totally understandable, but as long as that series remains posted it will be a beacon for a certain kind of person still wandering in darkness. It will be a series I likely revisit many times to remember that crazy story. What you guys do is valuable.

[@meh27143]

You need to play it. Yes, the podcast discussed a lot of the ideas and philosophies, but it's still very different from the game itself. Give it a good 10 hours or so to see if you can get into it though, since it starts fairly slowly.

[@coreyrachar9694]

@@meh27143 I did a bit more than listen to the podcast at least! The first time through I watched a full playthrough, later I watched an 'all cutscenes' video. I also read perfect works and since then I have read some nietzsche and am currently reading Jung. I don't spend a lot of time on games anymore so it's hard to find time to play old games when stuff is still coming out all the time. Sometimes I think I would rather just experience a game 2nd hand, even if it's amazing.

[@Zyel21]

Thank you both for sharing these beautiful memories. Agreed with all others that said we all won. For the longest time the two things I wanted most from this channel was a Landon-Returns episode and a livestream of y’all playing Quest 64 (although that April Fool’s episode was pretty great too). Now more than ever I just want to meet you both in person, shake your hands, and give Mike the biggest hug. Must be weird coming from a stranger, but I’m elated you found a way to connect that jigsaw piece after going through some dark times. We as a community are all better for it. Both of you guys are the best. So glad I stumbled upon Dark Pixel back when looking for podcasts in 2017.

[@jamesk2325]

This is the bravest upload you've yet made I don't think I could rank them but before watching, sticking to one per series mostly 1: Ace Combat Zero 2: MGS3: Subsistence, specifically including the first iteration of metal gear online 3: Devil May Cry 5 4: FF9 5: Majora's Mask 6: Silent Hill 2 7: Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door 8: Tactics Ogre: Reborn 9: Fire Emblem: Three Hopes (NOT three houses) 10: Persona 3 Not ranked in order because my ranking would fluctuate on a day to day basis Honorable mentions: FF12, FF6, FF14 (would have been here but HW and DT drag it down), FFX (9 is here and i didn't want multiple FF games), DMC3 (ONLY missing because 5 is incredible), God Hand (see dmc5), Warframe (the pinnacle of its genre), burnout: revenge (also the pinnacle of its genre), ocarina of time/ link to the past / link's awakening / age of calamity, and Code Vein, which I typo-deleted from my phone earlier and have re-added in an edit. Worth noting the two most recent musou games on Switch (three hopes and age of calamity) are excellent character writing in their own right and have substantial gameplay improvements over the norm for the genre. I feel that genre is largely underrated in part because most newer entries lost what made older ones so good. While my list isn't concretely ranked Ace Combat Zero IS number one Now to find out where you guys are on this. I'm going to guess at most two of our games overlap.

[@makojuicer]

Honestly pretty unique list, I like it

[@syphyt808]

Three Hopes is so good, props

[@jamesk2325]

​​@@makojuicerthanks! I picked each because I think there's something they're the best at and nothing they're terrible at. It's definitely a very personal list though, not one I'd expect to have universal appeal LMAO!

[@OmegaMetroid93]

Great list! Respect for putting an ace combat game up top, that series is one of my favorites for sure. As someone who only played the PS3 HD version of MGS3, what makes you put subsistence on there instead of the other versions? Is that version unique in a major way that I haven't seen?

[@kura2ninja944]

Ace Combat Zero is a solid pick. It was my first AC game ever and I absolutely love the dogfights.

[@caturiges]

Great video as always, Mike and Casen. I'm grateful for the time that you all dedicate into these podcasts, it is very creative and personal. I remember watching you since you played FF VII for the old channel and losing all your progress, it definitely has been a while. Have a nice day everyone!

[@El-Duderino-His-Dudeness]

1:30:00, man, can't wait to hear Casen's thoughts on Xenoblade 1, whenever they cover it. That intro was a banger. Also, to anyone playing Terranigma, since it basically has to be emulated, I can't recommend enough, NTSC patch it so it runs at 60fps. Otherwise you're dealing with a PAL rom that runs at like 50fps.

[@zakuguriin4521]

I’m glad you are still here! ❤️ Thank you for all the amazing stuff you guys bring to the table on this channel. I love hearing your stories and experiences and how these games touched your lives

[@jedfactor7093]

Thanks Mike you have sold me on Terranigma, I played it partly as a child but never finished it at the time, I remember it being pretty special and I really liked Illusion of Gaia which you should play if you haven't already. Gonna have to play Mario RPG as well thanks to Casen bro another SNES game I missed at the time.

[@jazzandfriends1]

Hey Mike. I was listening to this episode on Spotify during work tonight (yay overnights) and when I got to your #1 game, I had to come to KZbin just so I could comment. Just wanted to say that I'm so glad you're still here with us. Mental health is such an enigma, still so much that we don't know about how our own minds work and what makes them do the things they do. To be able to come out on the other side of a deep depression just gives you a whole new appreciation for life and all that it brings I've gone through some very similar thoughts and experiences in a bad period of my life a few years back, and still have those thoughts popping back up from time to time. I'm not a religious person at all, so finding that purpose to keep pushing and going on got pretty tough after awhile. So I definitely empathize with you on your journey through depression and mental illness Can't wait to read that novel of yours one day. Thanks for the years of podcasts and content, especially through the times where I know for a fact that it was tough as hell for the both of you to keep pushing. You guys both are badasses And with that said, heres my Top 10 lol 10. Elden Ring 9. GTA 4 8. Halo Reach 7. Final Fantasy 7 6. The Last of Us Part 2 5. Bloodborne 4. Death Stranding 3. Red Dead Redemption 2 2. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth (it really IS that good lol I promise) 1. Final Fantasy X

[@Troglodite89]

Thank you for sharing your story! I love the work you both do, and the insights you both share.

[@TectonicImprov]

You know this is gonna be a banger vid when Casen names a Nancy Drew game as his honorable mention for greatest games ever made.

[@nickyrod22]

That Deadliest Warrior reference in the intro felt like getting flashbanged. I genuinely thought I hallucinated that show because I've never heard anyone else mention it XD

[@CRedd9830]

My 10 would be: 1. Shining Force III 2. Panzer Dragoon Saga 3. Shadow Hearts: Covenant 4. Sakura Wars 3: Is Paris Burning? 5. Skies of Arcadia 6. Shadow Hearts 7. Shenmue II 8. Shadow of the Colossus 9. Phantasy Star Online: Blue Burst 10. Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride

[@Alucard12456]

Shining force III ❤❤❤

[@khwaic]

Mine (as a professional writer, and a 90s kid - adult gamer 😊) 🎉: 1. Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (+ Dlcs) 2. Breath of the Wild 3. Link to the Past 4. Ocarina of time 5. FF7 6. Bioshock 1 7. Broken Sword: Shadows of the Templar 8. Tears of the Kingdom 9. Super Mario 64 10. Grim fandango

[@LuckyRoooyt]

Not really good when it comes to top 10's, but here goes(This changes every so often lol) 10. Sly Cooper 2 9. Re2 Remake 8. Tales of Vesperia 7. Sekiro 6. FF7 Rebirth 5. Persona 5(funny enough) 4. Super Mario 64 3.FFX 2.Nier Automata 1.KH1/2 Final mix

[@Karanagi]

I really appreciate how personal these top 10s are. Sometimes, when talking about 'the best', we talk about scope, lack of obvious flaws, critical praise etc. But what's more beautiful than something you deeply connect with on a more profound level?

[@PSspecialist]

Exactly. For me the only way to make a top 10 is this. There is such a huge variety of different games and genres that it's simply not possible to compare them otherwise by some "objective" standard. How are you going to choose between, say, a game like Witcher 3 versus a game like Super Mario World in any way BUT personal meaning and preference? Plus this is the only way to make top 10 lists unpredictable and not boring.

[@timomahony1727]

Loving the podcasts guys. I've been a KZbin consumer since 2006 and its so rare to come across people who share my love of dense thematic heavy media begging to be dissected. Found ye with your analysis on the Fellowship of the Ring but stayed because of all the similar interests particularly Final Fantasy. I really need to give Xeno a chance by the sound of things.

[@wegogiant]

Well this was great. Casen wins in points overall for me, but that's in part because Mike just included more games I never happened to play. This was fun to listen to. Some of my all time favs that didn't get brought up include Yakuza: Like A Dragon, Metroid Prime, Balatro (one of very few non story focused games that might make a top 10 for me), and a recent one called 1000xRESIST. Like, holy cow guys, if you ever play and talk about 1000xRESIST on the show it would be so great. I know you both will love it

[@LS1Highwind]

That's crazy I randomly stumbled upon the trailer for that i think just scrolling my PS Network n though it looked good. I put it on my list but maybe now I'll move it up a peg or two 😊

[@wegogiant]

@LS1Highwind It's not for everyone. It's more or less a walking simulator, but if that doesn't turn you off and you've already seen a trailer, I recommend it

[@ArtelindSSB]

Glad you're still here, Mike. Been a fan of you/the channel since the Dark Pixel Gaming days. I've used your videos as a catalyst to play games sort of like a book club alongside friends that I don't see much anymore and it has been a wonderful way to stay connected. Here's my impromptu top 10 (that is almost certainly going to be missing some things since I'm making it in a matter of minutes): Super Metroid Final Fantasy Tactics Final Fantasy VII Chrono Trigger Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard Bastion Dark Souls 3 Mega Man X Persona 3 Portable Persona 4 Golden Honorable Mentions: Persona 3 Portable, Transistor, Final Fantasy VI, Super Mario RPG, Worms Armageddon, Monster Rancher, Kirby Super Star Super Metroid and FFT are number 1 and 2, respectively. Everything after that I'd have to think about more than I care to in this moment.

[@YoYoCheese6]

Surprised that Mike didn't have FFT on his list. Anyway, alot of these reasons are very relatable. I have a pretty similar Splatoon story to Casen's, actually. You guys remain one of the best video game podcasts out there. I would also like to say, as someone who has also had a too close brush with death, none of us are alone. No matter what your experience is, someone else has been through something similar. Personally, I intend to see my life through whether it ends up being good or bad. I owe that to myself and to the dead. Anyway, here's my own top 10. 1. Paper Mario 2. Final Fantasy VII 3. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door 4. Final Fantasy IX 5. Tales of Symphonia 6. Pikmin 2 7. Advance Wars: Dual Strike 8. Earthbound 9. Undertale 10. Live-a-Live Honorable Mentions: Skies of Arcadia, Golden Sun, Metroid Prime 1 and 2, Banjo-Tooie Paper Mario was the game that led to me discovering my love of stories and storytelling back when I was a kid. It was the first media I experienced where it felt like the NPCs had lives outside of what was happening on screen. That and FF7 are easily the two games that have had the biggest impact on my life and I doubt anything will ever surpass them. The tenth spot used fluctuate alot, but I played the HD2D remake of Live-a-Live and fell in love with it more deeply than I have with any game in very long time. I'd love to see a podcast series on it someday. It's exactly the kind of game that's perfect for you guys. Keep up the great work! This podcast has changed my perspective on many things and expect it to change it on many others. Take care of yourselves and rock on!

[@johnnyscifi]

You guys are incredible!!

[@lightsandlights6983]

Absolutely amazing episode of the podcast. These sorts of discussions really give us a glance into your lives, and that feels really special. Mike, thank you for sharing that very personal story at the end. This feels so human. Sharing stories of your childhood, formative memories, core memories, and the things that made both of you who you are. And all of us listening have had very similar experiences, though unique, that we can relate to. I loved this. So thank you.

[@kurtpritchett117]

guys, i dont know what to say but great pod cast. keep doing what you are doing and well wishes all around.

[@eternalbraid]

I came from fighting, platform, and strategy games, so Xenogears was the first RPG I ever played. It changed my life as a kid and brought me to this amazing community many years later. Mike, thank you for sharing your dark night of the soul and healing journey. Maybe I sound cheesy, but I truly believe strength and identity can be forged in adversity. Your delivery was perfect even though it's not as cheerful as you might have planned. The games that move our hearts are the most profound. Back when I was in a dark place, I rode my bike down the PCH paint line at night, daring myself to ride and live. Thankfully these days I use writing, stories, and games to conquer my existential ennui. Please keep sharing your gift of a perspective. Casen, I love your work, and technically you won my scoring. Your insights gave me a deeper appreciation for Xenogears symbology and I've been a fan ever since! You and Mike are a dream team! Girls weren't supposed to play video games and definitely not have a top 10 where I grew up, but thankfully the joy greatly outshined the judgement, and my friends loved me no matter what. Here's my top 10, though that's always changing by the day. 😂 Xenogears Undertale StarCraft Portal World of Warcraft BG3 FFIX Super Smash Brothers N64 Dance Dance Revolution The Stanley Parable

[@awalltep81]

1. Super Metroid 1a. Ocarina of Time then.. Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse Majora’s Mask Skies Of Arcadia Final Fantasy X Resident Evil 4 (og) Hollow Knight …in any order. Not sure what rounds out the Top 10. Maybe Metroid Prime and Castlevania 4. Possibly Xenoblade Chronicles 3.

[@EstiloInAction]

Super Metroid...Skies of Arcadia..... Castlevania III Dracula's Curse, all in one list?? 🫡 Well played

[@roophresh]

my #1 is FFX , #2 is OOT

[@BradleyAidanJohnson]

Ah. The taste. Why are we not best friends?

[@jpmf8050]

Amazing choice, especially FFX, I've just replayed it and it's still as fantastic as ever

[@roophresh]

thanks for the love guys, games did a ton for my life as well, i'm kinda ashamed but the feeling i get from kingdom hearts 1 is still amazing.

[@kevinpalmer9942]

@@jpmf8050I’m replaying it now for my biennial play through. Always so much fun.

[@Paul-to1nb]

FFX is the game that keeps on giving. In both narrative and gameplay, there's just so much depth if you look for it. Along with Mike and Casen's podcast, every FFX lover has got to check out Dansg08's videos. Special shout out to the Attack Only Challenge and the new Master's Mod playthrough.

[@dawidkapij586]

About a year ago I came across your channel and thanks to you I played Xenogears for the first time, six months ago I finished the game and it left me stunned, and after that time I still don't stop thinking about it. Recently I had so with The Witcher 3, as a Polish person the game worked on me doubly because it contains a whole lot of culture, folk tales and traditions of my country, a lot of classic literature I learned in school. The Witcher also has the best Polish dubbing in the game, which has a whole lot of the old language that people used in the old days, so it was an absolutely immersive experience for me, also the whole Hearts of Stone dlc is based on an old Polish legend about Mr. Twardowski who made a pact with the devil. Ps: the Netflix series The Witcher is in my opinion one big unfunny joke, the biggest sin is that they don't understand the characters, Geralt here is shown as a stupid sexy piece of meat and not an intelligent clever monster slayer, the reason why all the sorceresses fell in love with him was not because he was a big muscular guy but because he was extremely intelligent and cunning.

[@markasscop]

it's really interesting to me when a person's top favorite games has a decent amount of games they played in the past decade, it's so easy to default to your childhood/teen favorites that it's amazing when a game you played later in life resonates w/ you enough that you put it above games you played numerous times otherwise

[@quezcatol]

I agree that ff7 has the best intro, with that bird view and falling down on the train - but even Aeris near a leaking life stream pipe praying for something and then it felt like we, the player, came down from the stars to help save the planet- it was amazing! Lucky me got it for christmas back in 1997 for the ps1.

[@Legomyeggopls]

I've been following this channel for a while now and it brings me a lot of joy. Thanks for everything, and keep up the good work. Great list.

[@el_oh_ell]

Great lists! Honestly it makes me want to hear you both give a top list of your favorite series you’ve made so far. Listening to how the podcast itself impacted your life is interesting.

[@itshellaray]

Hi Mike and Casen. I became a subscriber because of your localization talks (I’m a J->E localizer myself, and I caught wind of your content because they were being shared among fellow localizers), and I’m so happy I found your channel. I enjoy the way you two articulate your points, as well as how you listen to and show respect to points you may not agree with. Looking forward to enjoy more of the stuff you guys put out!

[@French.Toast.5]

10 Favorite Video Games of All Time (in no order, 1 per franchise, no multiplayer-focused games): 1. Pokémon Platinum 2. Final Fantasy X 3. Resident Evil 2 (Remake) 4. Halo Reach 6. Super Mario Galaxy 7. Persona 5 Royal 8. Kingdom Hearts 2 9. Cuphead 10. The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Honorable Mentions: Metroid Dread & Elden Ring

[@jacobmonks3722]

@French.Toast.5 Exquisite taste. I was tempted to include Cuphead, Mario Galaxy, Kingdom Hearts 2, and Metroid Dread on my list.

[@French.Toast.5]

@@jacobmonks3722 thank you!

[@johnmckeough4368]

Couldn't keep count because I love hearing you guys talk so much, we'll done for being so open and honest about your mental health Mike, there's people out there worrying about those same feelings of selfishness you spoke about, and it helps hearing other people speak :)

[@mandoloriansoju3841]

Off the top of my head, in no particular order, my list has gotta include Final Fantasy 7, Xenogears, Xenoblade 2, Persona 5, Shin Megami Tensei 4, Persona 4, Breath of the Wild, Chrono Trigger, Pokémon Platinum, Final Fantasy 8, Pikmin 4. Honorable Mentions include Chrono Cross, Mario Odyssey, Horizon Zero Dawn, Celeste, Dragon Quest 11, Octopath Traveler 2, Xenoblade 3, Astro Bot, Link’s Awakening, and Fire Emblem Three Houses.

[@amineelboujjoufi6306]

This video feels like it's 2009. In a good way.

[@abysJaq]

I love how cosy you guys are being with sock and discussing deep topic about videogames. Love your channel, been there since before xenogears❤

[@elijahbauer8488]

with how much mike resonates with themes of death, im curious what his thoughts are on persona 3. while its long and a bit on the nose, there are some moments that really touched my emotions in ways no other games have

[@War624]

Mike, you really showed strength telling such a personal thing to your audience. Great discussion, and a reminder of why I started watching this channel in the first place.

[@Ppanos423]

Final Fantasy IX is the best game of all time!

[@michaelrhudak]

Harvest Moon 64 was the exact same thing for me. I'm 37. You guys nailed it.

[@shpladau]

I'm all for a Terranigma podcast.... after MGS2 because I'm a huge Metal Gear fan.

[@CliffConway]

I added it up and got Mike 28, Casen 24. To be fair tho, there was luck involved and could have gone either way depending on the placement, and if I hadn’t played the game (which was the case on a handful) I automatically gave it to the game I had. I gave placement #8 Ocarina vs FF9 as a tie cause I couldn’t decide. Awesome video, like always guys!! 🙏

[@eddienash4400]

words cannot express how much I appreciate the both of your souls. I really do feel like I have found kindred spirits on this place. We called the Internet. I feel like I’ve grown up with you guys my entire life, but deeply sad that we have never actually met. Thanks you too for being the goats. I really appreciate both of you for your vulnerability your time and your commitment. Cheers and hopes to this podcast sticking around forever. PS both your top tens are amazing, but I will be honest. There are a few games on there that I have not played yetand I appreciate both of you for making me feel like a terrible gamer for having not played the outer Wilds yet it’s on the back. It’s on the backlog.

[@miruku6939]

Excited for your Chrono Trigger analysis! I played it around a decade ago, but I can't remember the story anymore. I was just in an RPG binge, and though I enjoyed it, I think I sort of rushed it. I'm looking forward to revisit it with your episodes.

[@JoshJaramillo]

Talking about ff10, if someone saw the tidus and Yuna laugh scene and didn't understand it. They either A. Had no context B. Were younger than 8 when they played it C. Have the emotional intelligence of a subbrick.

[@nick859]

I have a bunch of the games on both of your lists in my top 10, and I loved hearing both of you talk with such passion about all these games. So much of our appreciation with art comes from our frame of reference when we experience that art, so hearing the backstory you each gave was a wonderful. Thanks for sharing

[@FireKnight251]

Knowing Mike was going through an experience just like my wife was around the same period of time is a little bit surreal. Much love man, and I’m grateful for you being so vulnerable where you can be.

[@transience242]

It's kind of interesting to trace your top 3s - one of you progressing through the golden age of RPGs (Mario RPG led to FF7 led to Xenogears), and one of you grappling through life experiences with death by way of video games.

[@vexhardt211]

Great video guys. I always love hearing people talk about their favorite games and why they made such an impact on them. I usually end up with a couple of games added to my backlog. I’ve had Windwaker, Terranigma and Xenogears on my backlog for so long. Was hoping for remasters for Windwaker and Xenogears.

[@maximefafard1794]

I love you dudes and I love the games you have you have picked. The videogame medium can be so much more than just games, it has therapeutic qualities and I am grateful that so many people can come together having been touched by them.

[@Realag666]

Hey guys, thanks so much for all your great effort you put into your podcast, while juggeling your social life and jobs at the same time. Mike, thanks for recommending Radiant Historia back in the day, it´s one of my favorite 3DS games and I would have never discoverd it else. Casen, all the deep dives you do into symbolism, names and other obscure stuff that might float over my head in a regular playthrough are very awesome and through playing these games again with you two I gained alot of appreciation and even checked out older stuff I would´t have tried like Vagrant story.

[@dasutin]

Tried my hardest to bang out this list without thinking too hard about it, otherwise I'd agonize for hours. I'm pretty confident in the top 3 being exactly in the right order, but the others could easily switch around on any given day. 10. Skyrim 9. Returnal 8. Lost Odyssey 7. Ape Escape 6. Mass Effect 2 5. Resident Evil (2002) 4. Life is Strange 3. Dark Souls 2. Final Fantasy 8 1. Half Life 2

[@dobadobadooo]

Solid lists from you both, appreciate that it was personal choices and not some boring "which games are most widely considered the best" type of list that we've all seen a thousand times before. Anyways, my own top 10 favorites would be: 10. *Radiant Historia* 9. *Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King* 8. *Mass Effect 3* 7. *Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door* 6. *Dragon Age 2* 5. *No More Heroes* 4. *The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask* 3. *The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt* 2. *Skies of Arcadia Legends* 1. *Tales of Symphonia* Honorable mentions: Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling, Suikoden II, Yakuza 0, Okami, Pokémon Black/White, Baldur's Gate 3.