In the ever-evolving world of gaming, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype of new releases and upcoming blockbusters. However, it’s crucial to take a moment to look back at the titles that helped shape the industry. March 28th is one of those days that holds a variety of landmark releases, each leaving an indelible mark on its respective genre.
Pokémon Stadium 2 (2001) – N64
When Pokémon Stadium 2 hit the N64 in 2001, it wasn’t just a sequel; it was an evolution of the Pokémon series’ ambitions. Featuring the familiar turn-based battle mechanics, this game expanded on its predecessor’s formula, introducing players to new, dynamic arenas, improved graphics, and a more engaging single-player campaign. Pokémon Stadium 2 was the first time many players in Australia got to experience Generation 2 Pokémon on the big screen, with the likes of Chikorita, Totodile, and Cyndaquil taking centre stage.
The game’s biggest draw was its 3D battle modes. As a child, I remember waiting with baited breath as I finally got the chance to transfer my Pokémon from Pokémon Red and Blue onto the N64. Watching my Pokémon fight in full 3D, fully rendered in stunning detail for the time, was something truly special.
Behind the scenes, Pokémon Stadium 2’s development was a technical marvel. The N64’s limited hardware was pushed to its limits, and it was one of the first games that showed just how much the system could deliver in terms of 3D graphical fidelity. Despite some issues with texture pop-in and occasional frame rate drops, it was clear that this game was a significant step up in terms of its technical ambition.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
The introduction of the Pokémon Transfer system to N64 made the Pokémon Stadium series pivotal for fans who had spent hours on their Game Boy. Additionally, the sequel expanded the roster of mini-games, and the 3D battles proved to be a precursor to the more advanced combat systems seen in Pokémon Colosseum on the GameCube.
Where to play it today: Pokémon Stadium 2 is available on eBay. Alternatively, some unofficial channels may offer it through ROMs or emulation.
Jedi Starfighter (2002) – PS2
The release of Jedi Starfighter for PlayStation 2 in 2002 took players into the heart of the Star Wars universe, placing them in the cockpit of a starfighter during the turbulent events leading up to the Clone Wars. A spiritual successor to Star Wars: Starfighter, this title combined fast-paced space combat with tactical gameplay, providing a fresh experience for PS2 owners.
While the Star Wars franchise had experienced ups and downs in the video game world, Jedi Starfighter stood out for its strong narrative and exciting aerial dogfights. Players could control iconic Jedi characters like Adi Gallia and Nym, each with their own unique starfighters and special abilities. The action was smooth, with a robust set of dogfighting mechanics that allowed for nimble manoeuvres, as well as a satisfying sense of scale as massive enemy ships loomed overhead during battles.
I recall booting up Jedi Starfighter and instantly being transported to a galaxy far, far away. The controls felt intuitive and smooth, making each mission feel like an important part of the overarching Star Wars narrative. Whether it was weaving through asteroid fields or engaging in intense space battles with Republic enemies, Jedi Starfighter kept me engaged for hours. Despite the relatively small amount of content compared to some other Star Wars games, it had an addictive quality that kept me coming back.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
Jedi Starfighter pushed the limits of what the PS2 was capable of in terms of graphics, especially in the high-speed, action-packed dogfights. The game’s core mechanic of using the Force to aid in combat provided a unique gameplay mechanic that separated it from other flight simulators. Fans of space combat games, like Rogue Squadron or Ace Combat, would appreciate the fluidity and control offered here.
Where to play it today: Available on eBay for collectors, but it’s also part of some Star Wars collections on modern consoles, so keep an eye on the digital stores for remakes or ports.
Jedi Outcast (2002) – PC
Star Wars Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast was an utter mouthful that redefined Star Wars action games in the early 2000s. Launching on PC in 2002, it was an immediate hit, blending first-person shooting with lightsaber combat, allowing players to fully experience the thrill of wielding a lightsaber in combat while also employing Force powers. With a compelling story set after the events of Return of the Jedi, it brought back fan-favourite characters such as Kyle Katarn, placing him in a battle against a mysterious new dark side threat.
The game’s standout feature was its dual combat system, where players could switch between ranged weapons and lightsaber combat on the fly. This created a dynamic and fluid combat experience that set Jedi Outcast apart from its contemporaries. As someone who grew up wielding my lightsaber in various Star Wars games, I remember my excitement when I first ignited my saber in Jedi Outcast and felt that unmatched thrill of slashing through enemies, coupled with the satisfaction of using Force powers like Force Push and Force Grip to control the battlefield.
The game’s multiplayer mode was also ahead of its time, offering several modes of combat that allowed players to duel with their lightsabers or engage in large-scale, objective-based battles. Fans of both Star Wars and competitive online shooters alike found enjoyment in the variety and accessibility of its multiplayer offerings.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
Jedi Outcast integrated Force powers with deep lightsaber mechanics, allowing for a seamless transition between combat styles. The modding community also contributed to its lasting legacy, with several fan-made mods that enhanced the game’s replayability, even years after its release.
Where to play it today: Available on Steam and GOG. For physical collectors, you can still find copies on eBay.
Game Boy Advance SP (2003)
March 28th also marks the launch of the Game Boy Advance SP, Nintendo’s iconic redesign of its Game Boy Advance handheld. With its sleek, clam-shell design and backlit screen, the SP was a significant step forward in portable gaming, offering greater visibility and a more ergonomic design compared to its predecessor. It was a device that truly defined an era for handheld gaming.
As a gamer at the time, I can vividly remember picking up my Game Boy Advance SP and marvelling at this little clamshell that could. The backlit screen was a game-changer, allowing me to play in all lighting conditions (a far cry from the previous Game Boy models). Not to mention, the battery life was outstanding, and with an expanding library of great games, it was clear that the SP had cemented its place in handheld gaming history.
Behind the scenes, the Game Boy Advance SP was the result of careful attention to design details. The folding mechanism, while simple, offered a level of portability that made the SP a perfect fit for gamers on the go. Its compact size meant you could slip it into your pocket, but the redesigned buttons and screen made it feel like a truly premium device.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
The Game Boy Advance SP marked the turning point for Nintendo’s dominance in the handheld market. It combined the power of the Game Boy Advance with an improved, more portable design, laying the groundwork for the success of the DS and 3DS that would follow. The Game Boy Micro that came after it…yeah, nah, bit of a backwards step.
Where to play it today: While the Game Boy Advance SP is no longer in production, you can find it and its games on eBay, and many Game Boy Advance classics are available on Nintendo’s digital stores.
Indiana Jones and the Emperor’s Tomb (2003) – Xbox
A Classic Adventure Returns with a Modern Spin
The year was 2003, and gamers were ready for an Indiana Jones game that would bring them closer to the classic film franchise than ever before. Released on the original Xbox, Indiana Jones and the Emperor’s Tomb was a breath of fresh air for fans of the franchise, blending the beloved action-adventure style of Tomb Raider with the narrative-driven experience that defined Indiana Jones. The game’s protagonist, Indy, embarks on a globe-trotting adventure to find a mysterious artefact, with all the right ingredients for a great Indy film: daring escapes, clever puzzles, and action-packed sequences.
The game is often praised for its fluid combat system and the varied environments, taking players from ancient tombs to bustling city streets. What sets it apart from other action-adventure games at the time is the way it integrates Indy’s iconic whip, which is used for everything from combat to solving puzzles. The fluidity of these interactions was quite impressive for its time.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
- Indiana Jones and the Emperor’s Tomb featured a unique whip mechanic that allowed players to swing, disarm enemies, and solve environmental puzzles. This feature was ahead of its time, influencing later titles like Uncharted and Tomb Raider (2013), which would further refine the fluidity of character movement in 3D environments.
Where to Play It Today
Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars (2007) – PC, Xbox 360
The Return of a Real-Time Strategy Legend
Released on March 28, 2007, Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars was the long-awaited return of one of the most iconic real-time strategy (RTS) franchises in gaming history. The game revived the beloved Tiberium storyline, pitting the Global Defense Initiative (GDI) against the evil Brotherhood of Nod and introducing a new faction, the alien Scrin. Tiberium Wars was the first game in the C&C series to feature fully 3D graphics, offering an immersive and tactical experience that made the series even more engaging than before.
The game improved on its predecessors by refining unit controls and incorporating some modern elements, such as fully rendered cutscenes featuring high-profile actors. The introduction of the Scrin faction, with their otherworldly technology and distinct playstyle, added an exciting layer to the strategic depth of the game. Fans were thrilled by the improved visual fidelity, with dynamic environments and detailed unit models, which were a noticeable leap forward from earlier entries in the series.
Behind the Scenes
One of the standout aspects of Tiberium Wars was the cinematic quality of its cutscenes. The game featured an all-star cast, including Hollywood veterans like Michael Ironside and Karen Strassman. This focus on high production values was a significant milestone for the C&C series, elevating the narrative experience for players and setting a new standard for RTS games.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
- C&C 3: Tiberium Wars continued to pioneer the use of high-quality, full-motion video cutscenes in RTS games, a feature that became a staple in the genre. The game’s introduction of the Scrin faction helped shape the future of RTS games by emphasizing the importance of asymmetric faction design.
Where to Play It Today
Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time (2013) – PS3
A Return to the Heist World of Sly Cooper
The Sly Cooper series was beloved by PlayStation fans, and in 2013, Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time made its debut on the PS3. This game followed Sly, Bentley, and Murray as they journeyed through time to recover the pages of the Thievius Raccoonus and restore their family’s legacy. The game was a nostalgic return to the vibrant platforming and clever puzzles that defined the earlier titles, but it also introduced new mechanics and a fresh art style.
The game stood out for its seamless blend of 2.5D platforming and 3D exploration. What truly made Thieves in Time special was its creative time-travel mechanic, allowing Sly to take on different historical identities with unique abilities, such as a medieval knight or a samurai. The humour, colourful visuals, and tight platforming made it a joy to play, even for those who hadn’t played the previous games in the series.
Behind the Scenes
Developed by Sanzaru Games, Thieves in Time was initially seen as a gamble since the studio was relatively unknown at the time. However, the success of the game proved that Sanzaru could carry the torch for the Sly Cooper series, even with the original developer, Sucker Punch Productions, out of the picture.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
- Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time introduced time-based mechanics that allowed players to switch between different historical identities with unique abilities. This concept would go on to inspire other platformers and action-adventure games, such as Ratchet & Clank: QForce.
Where to Play It Today
- Available for purchase: eBay
Luigi’s Mansion 2 (2013) – 3DS
The Return of the Green Ghostbuster
March 27, 2013, saw the release of Luigi’s Mansion 2 (also known as Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon) for the Nintendo 3DS. This follow-up to the GameCube classic took the beloved Luigi back into haunted mansions, armed with his trusty Poltergust 5000 vacuum cleaner, to battle ghosts and uncover the mystery of the Dark Moon. The game took full advantage of the 3DS’s capabilities, offering both spooky visuals and innovative 3D gameplay mechanics that kept the experience fresh and exciting.
The introduction of multiple mansions and the new puzzle mechanics was a hit, as players had to solve environmental puzzles and combat ghosts with a variety of new tools. The charming graphics and light-hearted tone of the game made it accessible to all ages, while still providing a decent level of challenge for more experienced gamers.
Behind the Scenes
Developed by Next Level Games, Luigi’s Mansion 2 pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the 3DS. The game’s use of 3D was impressive for its time, creating atmospheric environments that felt alive and, at times, quite eerie. The game also marked a significant departure from the original, with a more structured level-based approach rather than the single mansion setting.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
- Luigi’s Mansion 2 is known for its polished 3D environments and its unique ghost-capturing mechanics. The Poltergust 5000 not only serves as a vacuum but also as a versatile tool for puzzle-solving, making it one of the standout features of the game.
Where to Play It Today
- Available for purchase: Nintendo Store AU
- Get it on: eBay
