15 Best Old-School Games That Are Still GOOD 20 Years LATER - Explored [ Episode #1 ]

Updated: January 18, 2025

Retro Pocket


Summary

The video explores iconic video games from the early 2000s that have left a lasting impact on the gaming industry. Games like Far Cry, Max Payne 2, San Andreas, and Call of Duty are praised for their innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive storytelling. These titles revolutionized genres such as open-world, first-person shooter, and action-adventure, setting new standards for gaming experiences.


Far Cry 2004

Far Cry 2004 puts players in the shoes of Jack Carver, offering dynamic gameplay mechanics and open-ended level design that still feel refreshing today.

Max Payne 2 2003

Max Payne 2 remains a masterclass in stylish action gaming, featuring cinematic storytelling, emotional depth, and revolutionary bullet time mechanics.

San Andreas 2004

San Andreas is an influential open-world game that offers a sprawling narrative set in a detailed world, where player choices shape CJ's skills and appearance.

Call of Duty 2003

Call of Duty 2003 revolutionized the World War II shooter genre with immersive warfare, strategic gameplay, and attention to historical accuracy in weapons and locations.

Manhunt 2003

Manhunt 2003 is a controversial psychological horror game with stealth gameplay that immerses players in a dark and oppressive world, creating a unique and intense experience.

True Crime Streets of LA 2003

True Crime Streets of LA offers an engaging gameplay experience with a branching narrative based on player choices, creating a dynamic and adaptive storytelling system.

Knights of the Old Republic 2003

Knights of the Old Republic delivers one of the greatest Star Wars stories in gaming history, combining epic battles with meaningful choices and companion relationships.

Half-Life 2 2004

Half-Life 2 revolutionized physics-based gameplay and storytelling, offering unique combat mechanics, environmental puzzles, and attention to detail that still impress players today.

Prince of Persia 2003

Prince of Persia 2003 introduces innovative time manipulation mechanics, fluid platforming, and a narrative-driven adventure that remains a masterpiece in gaming.

Soul Calibur II 2003

Soul Calibur II features intuitive gameplay mechanics, diverse character roster, and weapon Master mode that continue to captivate fighting game enthusiasts.

Need for Speed Underground 2003

Need for Speed Underground 2003 revolutionized street racing games with comprehensive customization, immersive racing experience, and iconic soundtrack.

Halo 2 2004

Halo 2 redefined online gaming with groundbreaking multiplayer systems, expanded scope, and innovative gameplay elements that set new standards in the industry.

Tony Hawk's Underground 2003

Tony Hawk's Underground 2003 introduces a story-driven skateboarding experience with innovative level design, exploration, and customization options for players.

Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War 2004

Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War offers squad-based RTS combat with strategic gameplay, distinct playstyles, and intense battles that perfectly embody the Warhammer universe.

The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay

The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay immerses players in a gritty and oppressive prison environment, featuring satisfying combat mechanics, stealth gameplay, and a compelling narrative.


FAQ

Q: What are some key features of Max Payne 2 in terms of gameplay and storytelling?

A: Max Payne 2 is known for its stylish action gaming, cinematic storytelling, emotional depth, and revolutionary bullet time mechanics.

Q: What sets Knights of the Old Republic apart in terms of storytelling?

A: Knights of the Old Republic is praised for delivering one of the greatest Star Wars stories in gaming history, combining epic battles with meaningful choices and companion relationships.

Q: What was the impact of Half-Life 2 on the gaming industry?

A: Half-Life 2 revolutionized physics-based gameplay and storytelling, offering unique combat mechanics, environmental puzzles, and attention to detail that still impress players today.

Q: How did Need for Speed Underground 2003 revolutionize street racing games?

A: Need for Speed Underground 2003 revolutionized street racing games with comprehensive customization, immersive racing experience, and an iconic soundtrack.

Q: What makes Halo 2 stand out in terms of online gaming experience?

A: Halo 2 redefined online gaming with groundbreaking multiplayer systems, expanded scope, and innovative gameplay elements that set new standards in the industry.

Q: What genre does Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War fall into and what are its key features?

A: Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War is a squad-based RTS combat game known for its strategic gameplay, distinct playstyles, and intense battles that embody the Warhammer universe.

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