The most underrated games of 2006.
This is my list of the most underrated games released in 2006. These are the games that no one seemed to talk about, and for the most part were critically dismissed as mediocre (or worse). Keep in mind that these are not necessarily the best games released this year, they are simply the games that most deserve a second chance. All can currently be found at budget prices, so do yourself a favor and pick them up. Feel free to add to the list (or disagree).
Xbox 360
Tomb Raider Legend (Edios):
Tomb Raider: Legend fits the classic description of an underrated game. It was dismissed as shit before it was even released...yet ended up exceeding expectations in every category that makes a game great (gameplay, graphics, and overall fun). How often does a shitty game franchise actually redeem itself to such an extent? Never.
Battlefield 2: Modern Combat (EA):
BF2MC is a prettier port of the original Xbox and PS2 versions of BF2MC that were released in 2005. That being said, there was not a better online FPS on the Xbox 360 from April to November 2006. That may not seem like much of an endorsement, but this was simply THE game that you should have played this summer on Xbox Live. BF2MC features some of the best online FPS action that I have ever experienced. No game lobbies, no host team-stacking...this is simply a pick-your-weapon-and-go shooter. This is now officially the game I have put the most hours into in the 27 years I have been playing video games. No matter what game I was playing this year, I always came back to BF2MC. Damn fun. This game also features some of the most difficult (and respectable) achievements so far for the 360. Five simultaneous enemy kills with one mortar strike? Good luck.
PS2
God Hand (Capcom):
This game is one of the most truly bizarre Japanese releases in recent memory. God Hand is the ultimate example of a "love it or hate it" experience. It's a game that can turn dismemberment (a scene where you're character literally gets his arms ripped out from their sockets) into a weird Japanese slapstick-comedy routine. This game reminds me of that episode of The Simpson's were the family takes a trip to Tokyo. They go into this "American"-themed restaurant and inside is this surreal hodge-podge of awkward and out of place American pop culture references as seen through Japanese eyes. That's what God Hand is like. That, and a lot of punching and kicking. Too many WTF moments to mention...probably the most in any game I've ever played.
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner - Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army (Atlus):
What else can be said about the Shin Megami Tensei series that hasn't already been mentioned. Oh wait, that's right...no one HAS said anything about the series. The hype for this game was almost non-existent. It's not too surprising considering most gaming sites didn't even bother to review the last SMT installment. Like Final Fantasy, the SMT series keeps the same monster designs, magic and item names consistent throughout. Devil Summoner mixed things up by abandoning turn-based battles and going with a pseudo-action RPG battle system. While Devil Summoner isn't as good as Nocturne and Digital Devil Saga, it's still the 2nd best Japanese RPG released in 2006 (FFXII ftw).
PSP
Ultimate Ghosts 'n Goblins (Capcom):
Tragically misunderstood and unjustly hated, Ultimate Ghosts 'n Goblins is probably THE most underrated game of 2006. This game should be required playing for anyone that remembers the beloved rage that came with playing the NES, Genesis, and SNES originals. Yes, this game is hard. Yes, you are a pussy for whining. Unfortunately for us retro-gaming fans, Sony sees this game's failure as a failure for the entire 2-D genre. I'm sure they'll be thinking twice on releasing the 2-D Castlevania for PSP that we all know is coming. When they decide to pass, don't blame Ultimate Ghost's 'n Goblins. Excellent, difficult, and fun.
Nintendo DS
Resident Evil: Deadly Silence (Capcom):
Simply put, Resident Evil DS is a remake of Resident Evil 1 for the Playstation. If you didn't like the 1996 version, you probably won't like this one either. For those still interested, Resident Evil DS has the 2nd best gameplay evolution of the entire series...the ability to skip the annoying "opening the door" scene each time you move to a different room. Cartridges do have their advantages. In all seriousness, this is a must-have for all RE fans. Better than the original in every way and complete with the (necessary) 180° fast turn. Note to Capcom: I'm ready for DS versions of RE2, 3, and CV, thanks.
Honorable Mention:
Summon Night: Swordcraft Story 1 and 2 (GBA)
Yggrda Union (GBA)
Every Extend Extra (PSP)
Megaman Powered Up (PSP)