We did a gallery on the most awesome continue screens a few weeks ago, so it's only fair that we give their complement—start menus and title screens—the same treatment.
Starting off at the top there is Xenoblade Chronicles, one of the best title screen experiences, especially when you've got the music on. But let's continue in a chronological order and start with iconic title screens from the 8-bit and 16-bit era, finishing up the list with more recent games.
We handpicked these based on screens that had some amazing (or hypnotic, ahem Zombies Ate My Neighbours) animation, action or just set the right mood. Let's dig in.
The Legend of Zelda (1986)
Kamen Rider Club (1988)
Dogfight Spirit (1988)
The Revenge of Shinobi (1989)
Super Mario Kart (1992)
Ultimate Air Combat (1992)
Secret of Mana (1993)
Zombies Ate My Neighbours (1993)
Super Metroid (1994)
The Incredible Hulk (1994)
Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island (1995)
Chrono Trigger (1995)
Final Fantasy VII (1997)
Halo: Combat Evolved (2001)
Metroid Prime (2002)
Half-Life 2 (2004)
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (2008)
Brütal Legend (2009)
Wet (2009)
Vanquish (2010)
The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings (2011)
There are other good ones out there! Storm the comments and post your picks!
sources: BrotherhoodOutcast, TheNightRune, Classic Video Game Title Screens, NeoGAF, Please Press Start, NES Title Screens, Tidal Tempest
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