While Microsoft’s Xbox 360 doesn’t have as large a back catalogue of old-school games as the Nintendo Wii’s Virtual Console service, it features several classic and original games and many features that other popular game consoles lack. Unlike Nintendo, Microsoft’s philosophy when it comes to classics is to update them with improved graphics and enhanced features. There are a few exceptions, but many of the games have a fresh coat of paint.
Microsoft often improves the graphics of its old titles by giving them a three-dimensional upgrade and by making them technologically compatible with HD. Online features are also typically added to popular multiplayer games. The best part about Microsoft’s Xbox Live Arcade system, though, is the ability to download a demo of a game before purchasing it.
I’ve been happy with every Live Arcade game I’ve purchased because of this feature. Nintendo could learn something from this approach. Another great thing about Live Arcade is that there are also brand new bite-sized games available. If you don’t have much time to play games, or don’t feel like buying a full-fledged title for $60, Live Arcade games aren’t a bad option.
Some games I recommend from this download service are:
“Geometry Wars”: If you buy one Live Arcade game, make this the one. It is a great pick up-and-play game that involves the use of both analog sticks. Thankfully, the title has very little to do with math. You control a small ship that flies around a single screen and shoots different shapes to gain points, much like 1980s-era arcade games. The game features frantic action that makes great use of your eye-hand coordination. While the game doesn’t have the graphics of mainstream 360 titles, the colors are vibrant and the game runs in HD.
“Pac-Man Championship Edition”: This is another must-own title. This is a completely new edition of “Pac-Man.” Instead of proceeding through levels as in the old “Pac-Man” games, the game is created to play in five- to 10-minute bursts. You try to get the highest score possible within the time limit and can compete for the highest score with other gamers via Xbox Live.
“Bomberman Live”: An Xbox Live Arcade-specific version of the classic multiplayer game, “Bomberman Live” features cutesy anime-style characters that run around the screen with the objective of blowing up one another. You customize the looks of your character and then jump into the game with up to seven other gamers. There are various modes, but the main objective is to avoid getting hit by bombs, while simultaneously blowing up your enemies. As any Bomberman fan will tell you, it is easier said than done, and the matches can quickly become frantic. The game features lag-free online play via Xbox Live.
“Castlevania: Symphony of the Night”: I had often read about this PlayStation classic, but I never ended up playing it until the Live Arcade installment. Unlike most Live Arcade games, “Symphony of the Night” isn’t modified graphically or gameplay-wise, which most gamers would consider a good thing. If you have played “Super Metroid,” you will be familiar with the gameplay style of “Symphony of the Night.” You traverse a massive castle – including the famed inverted version – collecting power-ups and slaying beasts, opening Castle Dracula as you continue along. This action-RPG has innumerable secrets and is widely considered a modern gaming classic. I highly recommend it, even if you haven’t played and enjoyed any of the previous Castlevania games.