4. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
Platforms: PlayStation 3 / Xbox 360
Release Date: 24 March, 2006 The Elder Scrolls series encapsulates the value of freedom of choice over everything else. You are usually placed a vast world, asked to choose what type of character you would like to be and then sent out to explore. Oblivion did this better than any other RPG has ever done. You actually feel part of a living world filled with breathing characters going about their lives. You can choose to join factions, be a proud hero, a deceitful thief or a powerful mage. It is entirely up to you. Being relatively simple to play it invites you to pick up the controller. When you do you are thrust into the beautiful visuals, wonderful musical score and a huge number of quests ready to be completed.
3. BioShock
Platforms: PlayStation 3 / Xbox 360
Release Date: 24 August, 2008 Bioshock is a first-person shooter where you control of Jack and must fight your way through Rapture. It incorporates stealth and role-playing elements to create striking gameplay. Weapons are easy to control and a host of superhuman powers help to create a varied and satisfying combat experience. More importantly though is the fact that Bioshock tells a mature and intelligent story that really makes you think while you play through it. The riveting plot is slowly revealed through a mysterious atmosphere and fantastic voice acting, leading to a conclusion with an exciting plot twist. Few games have managed to be an engrossing as Bioshock and it is one of the best highlights of a crowded generation of gaming.
2. Super Mario Galaxy
Platforms: PlayStation 3 / Xbox 360
Release Date: 24 August, 2008 Super Mario 64 redefined what platformers could be. Moving into 3D offered new possibilities and puzzles. Nintendo took what worked in 64, added and improved upon it and released it as Super Mario Galaxy. Featuring new power ups, stunning levels design and magnificent gameplay this platformer puts to shame other 3D efforts from other developers. Mario games always used to be stand out moments in gaming and Galaxy is no different. It is a game that is worth buying a Nintendo Wii just to play it. And the greatest game of this generation...?