8. Micro Machines
Micro Machines was released in 1991 on the NES and later released for other platforms (such as the PC, Sega Mega Drive etc) in 1993. It is a top-down racing game where each of the tracks in based around a wacky, novelty idea. For example, the track could be a kitchen, a snooker table or a bath. It was released to excellent reviews and gained numerous awards included being votes the 14th best game of all time by Amiga Power. An interesting premise, you will admit, but still it would fail today. Released today, Micro Machines would be condemned to the bottom of the review scale. Labelled as simple and dumb, it would be heavily criticised on its game-play, racing mechanics and variety of content. With the only movement mechanics available being accelerating, braking and turning, players would not be satisfied with their purchase. The racing genre has matured and developed into a complex and demanding area, with modern racing games featuring destruction, jumps, stunts, the ability to slow and reverse time and numerous different play styles. Micro Machines would be seen as a step back in the genre and would be discarded. No matter what track you choose to play on, the controls and feel of the cars are basically the same. This lack of difference in the terrain and handling of vehicles would be lacklustre. Unfortunately, the racing genre has matured and left classics like Micro Machines in the dust. As gamers have demanded more features, more online interactions and more realism, the expectations of racing games have shot through the roof, forcing the standard of them up too.