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[PepsimanVsJoe]

Now I know ya'll have your Steam and whatevs for those huge sales where you get twenty games for $5 but for me I tend to keep it old school by digging through bargain bins.

Say I'm at Gamestop or....Gamestop(yeah I don't shop around much) and I'm buying the latest title by those one guys and I happen to stroll by the "$10 or less" racks. Chances are I'm going to find something that I'll like. Honestly I don't know what it is about these games as it might be that they were criminally ignored when they came out, maybe they're just old as crap, or well it doesn't matter because I love them like God's children.

I’ve cobbled together a partial list of games that can be had for around $10 or less. I imagine one could find these games for similar prices off Amazon, Ebay, or their favorite used game retailer/forum poster. I think for best results though you probably just gotta be at a Gamestop somewhere and happen to stumble over something. Not sure if this sort of thing still works for Xbox games though cause I've noticed a lot of the stores in my area no longer carry them. I can't say all of these games are great or even good but they um..they have a certain value to them(fortunately there's a fair number of classics floating around as well).

Sega GT 2002 and Jet Set Radio Future doublepack – 99 cents
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=25939
The Case for: Jet Set Radio Future is.....stylish and Sega GT 2002 has....uh.... a lot of content(?).
The Case against: JSRF can be a frustrating snooze-cruise and GT 2k2 is obsolete.

Rallisport Challenge 2 – 1.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=28016
The Case for: One of the best Rally-racing games of all time.
The Case against: No Xbox BC support. Expect to see this come up a lot.

Death By Degrees – 1.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=34876
The case for: Uhhhhhh I’ll get back to you on that.
The case against: Everything.

Fighter Maker 2 – 1.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=22387
The case for: ?????
The case against: It can take hours to put a decent move together.

Spy Fiction – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=30516
The case for: It’s a Metal Gear Solid clone and Forrest “F.K. in the coffee” Kaysen makes an appearance.
The case against: It’s inferior to MGS in every way except storyline.

Megaman Network Transmission – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=26794
The case for: A surprisingly good and underrated Megaman game with a lot of different ideas.
The case against: Difficulty balance is crap. Beginning is hard while the end is easy…

Bouncer – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=3628
The case for: It’s a beatemup. That’s a free pass in my book.
The case against: Echidna’s awful haircut. Even Square's non-RPGs have more cutscenes than actual gameplay.

Deus Ex: Invisible War – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=25464
The case for: Throw people in the shower and they die. Old-school havok hilarity.
The case against: A handful of people take this game too seriously and whine about it killing Deus Ex for about a decade.

Samurai Western – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=38267
The case for: Reflect bullets back at cowboys using a Samurai sword. Ridiculous amount of extras.
The case against: Main character is a huge jerkoff. Difficulty settings are unbalanced.

Stretch Panic – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=30672
The case for: Grab some huge boobs and stretch them around.
The case against: That’s literally the only thing this game has going for it.

Ridge Racer 5 – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=14431
The case for: Pretty much worth it for the soundtrack alone.
The case against: Listening to RR5 music while playing RR7 doesn’t make it a good game.

Senko No Ronde – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=65087
The case for: Oh good a Mecha 2D shooter VS combat game.
The case against: Even for $3 you’ll still never find anyone playing this online.

Crimson Tears – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=34408
The case for: Android women in tiny outfits. Phat Loot.
The case against: Everything about the game kind of sucks.

Bujingai – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=33392
The case for: Stylish action with lots of sword swinging and zooming around.
The case against: Eats up a good 1/8th of your memory card.

Breakdown – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=33344
The case for: Pretty much the most ambitious and unique Namco title since Katamari.
The case against: It looked dated when it first came out. Don’t hold your breath for a sequel.

Rengoku 2 – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=60114
The case for: Phat Loot. Stylish.
The case against: Progression and level design get flipped on their head after you “beat” the story-mode.

Beatdown: Fists of Vengeance – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=38366
The case for: It’s like Suikoden only with curb-stomping.
The case against: It’s definitely a Cavia game.

Outrun 2k6: Coast to Coast – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=43187
The case for: Less than half the price of the XBLA/PSN version and includes more content to boot.
The case against: Doesn’t look/run quite as good.

King’s Field: The Ancient City – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=17551
The case for: Incredible atmosphere and dungeons to explore.
The case against: Incredibly slow-paced.

Nightmare of Druaga – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=36759
The case for: It’s a Fushigi Dungeon game. Everyone likes those right?
The case against: Ugly as all hell.

Nightshade – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=32711
The case for: The main character is a total hottie.
The case against: That’s the only nice thing I can say about the game.

Buffy The Vampire Slayer – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=24544
The case for: Actually a fun beatemup.
The case against: No 360 BC.

Deathrow – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=23218
The case for: Insane sports game with lots of violence.
The case against: Career mode gets frustrating when your players decide to be a bunch of fuck-ups.

Crimson Sea 2 – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=27360
The case for: Tons of aliens to shoot, experience bars to fill, and obligatory slow-motion powerups.
The case against: A lot of dumb missions like stealth and being stuck in dark areas.

Gun Valkyrie – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=16523
The case for: Master the controls and it’s quite rewarding.
The case against: Shitty mission setup means you can’t replay missions for better ranks/more money. DUMB.

Kuon – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=34992
The case for: Old-school Survival Horror
The case against: A little too old-school at times (thanks for the crappy knife assholes)

Red Star – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=62407
The case for: A combination of shooting and beatemuping is guaranteed entertainment.
The case against: Can be a bit dull at times.

Taito Legends – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=41075
The case for: A lot of Taito arcade games.
The case against: Jump is square and attack is X. Not a good idea at all.

Shadowrun – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=61225
The case for: A very underrated FPS with a good learning curve and skill balance.
The case against: They still should have made an RPG dammit.

Dino Stalker – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=20031
The case for: It’s a gun game with FPS elements.
The case against: It’s total ass!

Trapt – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=39430
The case for: Another solid entry in Tecmo’s deception series.
The case against: Just look at the title.

Shinobi – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=22402
The case for: Still one of the best action games of all time.
The case against: Final boss is still a whore.

F-Zero GX – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=25469
The case for: Amazing racing game.
The case against: Story mode should come with a Surgeon General warning.

ToeJam & Earl 3: Mission to Earth – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=21672
The case for: A sequel to ToeJam & Earl that’s pretty much just like the original only with lots of new and good additions.
The case against: Dated as a motherfucker.

Dynasty Warriors 3 – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=18971
The case for: Legendary voice-acting and an altogether solid entry in the series.
The case against: square square square square square triangle square triangle square square square triangle square square square square etc etc etc.

Wizardry: Tale of the Forsaken Land – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=19168
The case for: Excellent and different take on the standard dungeon exploration-rpg.
The case against: Battle animations are long as hell and get old after awhile. Battles become very one-dimensional if one spams warp-attack all day everyday.

1080 Avalanche – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=22274
The case for: A good update to a popular N64 title.
The case against: Kind of shallow compared to the likes of Amped and SSX.

Taito Legends 2 – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=65247
The case for: Really is there anything else I gotta say? Buy this damn set.
The case against: A number of games aren’t emulated accurately.

Sega Classics Collection – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=361351
The case for: Monaco GP and a few other titles
The case against: A terrible remake of Space Harrier. At least Golden Axe has the “so bad its good” quality.

The Dark Spire – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=73784
The case for: For fans of old OLD-school RPGs like the early Wizardry games.
The case against: Gag me with a spoon. Yuck

Drakengard 2 – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=38546
The case for: Better than Drakengard 1.
The case against: In all the ways that don’t really matter.

Way of the Samurai – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=19913
The case for: A very unique adventure/slasher. Really unlike most stuff out there.
The case against: Keep children in other room as you will punch something when your character dies and you lose your best weapon.

Fire Pro Wrestling Returns - 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=67144
The case for: The greatest most customizable wrestling game of all time.
The case against: Cumbersome. AI will kick the shit out of you.

Robot Alchemic Drive – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=25092
The case for: hop in a giant robot and punch other giant robots to death...or ignore the robots and just go punch buildings.
The case against: Definitely hasn’t aged well.

Romancing Saga – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=38543
The case for: An RPG for those sick of 40 hour straight lines and being spoon-fed.
The case against: You will screw yourself if you don’t use a guide.

Atari Anthology – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=41673
The case for: Tons of 2600 and Arcade games.
The case against: Wow I never realized how much the 2600 sucked.

Gurumin – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64394
The case for: Lots of stuff to collect and platforms to jump on.
The case against: Sometimes the only difference between some stages is one is backwards and the other has a couple extra traps.

Activision Anthology – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=23623
The case for: Go back to a time when Activision was actually really cool.
The case against: 80s soundtrack includes more misses than hits.

Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=24312
The case for: Brilliant RPG
The case against: Admitting to others that you got stuck in the game because you don’t know how to play it only highlights your inadequacy.

Neo Contra – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=41600
The case for: Overhead blastemup like Mercs
The case against: Oh wait you wanted a side-scrolling Contra?! What madness is this?!

Legend of Kage 2 – 6.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=72054
The case for: Really good action-platformer.
The case against: The realization that Taito doesn’t make nearly enough awesome sequels to crappy games.

Panzer Dragoon Orta – 6.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=22350
The case for: A great shooter. Not much more I can say.
The case against: Has little to no soul and the story blows.

Culdcept – 6.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=30084
The case for: It’s like monopoly meets a card game.
The case against: If you don’t have friends to play this with you will hate life.

Gradius Collection – 6.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=60113
The case for: Gradius Gaiden and Gradius 2
The case against: The other three games.

Bangai O Spirits – 6.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=70959
The case for: Near infinite amount of levels. Tons of weapons/abilities to use/experiment with.
The case against: Definitely feels like an experiment at times. A lot of stages turn out to be more like puzzles than anything.

Urban Reign – 6.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=38810
The case for: One of the best 3D beatemups ever made.
The case against: Criminally ignored by Namco as they keep using shitty engines for their Tekken Force modes.

PGR4 – 7.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=65451
The case for: Looks great and plays well.
The case against: Framerate could stand to be better...yeah that's the best I could do.

Timeshift – 7.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=60181
The case for: Manipulate time to help you shoot the bad guys.
The case against: Only people online are the ones hosting games for the achievement.

Drakengard – 7.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=29159
The case for: A fascinating experience and a real treat for fans of the macabre.
The case against: Cavia at their highest level of “I hate you fucking gamers!” mode.

Project Sylpheed – 7.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64867
The case for: The only space combat game available on consoles this generation. What else can you do?
The case against: If you quit playing this game for an hour or so you’ll forget all of the controls.

Unreal Tournament 3 – 8.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64591
The case for: Split-screen
The case against: Hell if I care. This game is a riot with my little brother.

Shining Force EXA – 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64814
The case for: A hack’n’slash game that doesn’t require hundreds of thousands of hours to get the most out of it.
The case against: Storyline is animu as fuck.

Smackdown: Here Comes The Pain – 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=28526
The case for: Season mode with all custom characters = Hell yes.
The case against: Why can’t THQ just re-release HCTP on HD consoles? I’m sick of being jerked around by all future Smackdown games when it comes to CAW options.

SpikeOut Extreme – 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=38503
The case for: A very good 3D beatemup with an absurd number of playable characters.
The case against: You’ll never play this game online again.

Konami Arcade Hits – 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64836
The case for: A really neat compilation of older arcade games with features like the ability to make your own replays.
The case against: Old Konami Arcade games? Ewww.

Radiata Stories – 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=38544
The case for: Charming recruitemup with tons of characters.
The case against: Both endings suck horse-cock.

Riviera: The Promised Land – 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=65673
The case for: Concept sounds like something out of a bad dream but it actually works well.
The case against: People looking over your shoulder when you stumble upon a fanservice scene that features underage characters wearing little to nothing.

Samurai Warriors 2: Empires – 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64566
The case for: Use diplomacy to unite Japan under your rule.
The case against: X X X X X X X X X X X X Y Y Y X X X Y X Y X X X Y X Y

Now I know there's a ton of games I haven't accounted for so feel free to post some cheap as hell games worth looking into. Make sure they're retail though cause I ain't interested in reading about GOG's entire catalog or something. Furthermore any games that have just recently reached bargain bin status I’ll try to account for as well. It feels like I'm almost constantly buying new cheapo games from somewhere(just recieved like four more earlier today as a matter of fact) so yeah expect more updates.

And yes I'm well aware most of these links lead to games you can't even order anymore off Gamestop(why would you want to really?). To me that's kind of the appeal of the bargain bin. You see something you don't really expect so you gotta have it. Course you could always just run a search on amazon or whatever and find a decent price but eh I'm still working it all out.

So yeah post some games. Just try to keep it $10 or less. Prices would help too, even if they're not 100% accurate they do at least give a general idea.

Oh and this could definitely stand to be better organized. I may have to look into it.

 

[Grady Durden]

Just got pgr4 new on amazon for $10. Not bad.

 

[jjasper]

Do people still play Shadowrun online? For 5 bucks I would take a chance on it.

 

[TheSeks]

Man, I'm pissed that the X-box collection around here is fucking DISMAL and dying in Gamestops. I want to find a copy of Buff (not Chaos Bleeds, but I guess that one too) and the Indiana Jone's game that is based on the first Buffy (not CB) engine before I die.

Rallisport Challenge 2 – 1.99

I have the first, and I've rarely played it. Is the second REALLY that good as everyone makes it out to be?

Bouncer – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...roduct_id=3628
The case for: It’s a beatemup. That’s a free pass in my book.
The case against: Echidna’s awful haircut. Even Square's non-RPGs have more cutscenes than actual gameplay.

I bought this for $5-10 two years ago. It's not bad for a launch PS2 game. But yeah... the gameplay isn't solid and gets kinda repetitive (which is weird as I generally enjoy beat'em ups) fast.

Senko No Ronde – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=65087
The case for: Oh good a Mecha 2D shooter VS combat game.
The case against: Even for $3 you’ll still never find anyone playing this online.

Is this really worth getting? I've had people tell me it is, but I dunno.

Breakdown – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=33344
The case for: Pretty much the most ambitious and unique Namco title since Katamari.
The case against: It looked dated when it first came out. Don’t hold your breath for a sequel.

I really need to find a copy of this along with Buff/Indiana as well. ARGH.

Buffy The Vampire Slayer – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=24544
The case for: Actually a fun beatemup.
The case against: No 360 BC.

See above.

Shinobi – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=22402
The case for: Still one of the best action games of all time.
The case against: Final boss is still a whore.

I should probably pick this up, if only because it came out around the time Ninja Gaiden did.

Drakengard 2 – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=38546
The case for: Better than Drakengard 1.
The case against: In all the ways that don’t really matter.

Been curious about this, but do you have to play Drakengard 1 before 2?

Gurumin – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=64394
The case for: Lots of stuff to collect and platforms to jump on.
The case against: Sometimes the only difference between some stages is one is backwards and the other has a couple extra traps.

Oh, man. I didn't know this was $5 now. I should swing by a Gamestop tomorrow and yoink it.

Unreal Tournament 3 – 8.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=64591
The case for: Split-screen
The case against: Hell if I care. This game is a riot with my little brother.

case for: KB&M on PS3.
case against: haters gonna hate.

 

[oracrest]

Megaman Network Transmission, It's been a while, but I seem to remember this one had a lot of inspiration from Mega Man 2, which made me really like it.


Breakdown: Still one of my favorite FPS games ever. Great presentation and narrative, undermined by a clunky and broken gameplay mechanic (although, first person hand to hand had a lot of potential, it's just a shame you don't really get to the hand to hand stuff until later in the game.) Gets major bonus points for being the most immersive FPS game, as in, the entire game never breaks away from first person AND, when you look down, you see legs and feet (I'm looking at you Half-Life)

Panzer Dragoon Orta: Just buy it.

 

[John]

Gamestop has a bargain bin?

 

[Deleted member 47027]

Great post Pepsiman - love it. Good work, some of us very much appreciate it!

 

[levious]

Is this really worth getting? I've had people tell me it is, but I dunno.

it's kind of like a 2D overhead Virtual On? Didn't really grab me, but certainly worth that price I'd say.

 

[PepsimanVsJoe]

I have the first, and I've rarely played it. Is the second REALLY that good as everyone makes it out to be?
I never played the first but I think the second is amazing. Probably the best I've played in the genre

Is this really worth getting? I've had people tell me it is, but I dunno.
It's certainly an acquired taste. It does what it does well but it's total YMMV

I should probably pick this up, if only because it came out around the time Ninja Gaiden did.
Actually it was Nightshade that came out around the same time as Ninja Gaiden. Needless to say the results weren't pretty for Sega. To put it bluntly Shinobi was a pretty huge success for its time while Nightshade was a major bomb.

Been curious about this, but do you have to play Drakengard 1 before 2?
It's recommended that you play Drakengard 1 first but you only have to play up to ending A and maybe a few side sections. The storyline in D2 is a direct sequel to D1's ending A and features a handful of recurring characters. There's more to it than that but I'll get into it another time.

.

 

[DryvBy]

Lol. I actually bought my original Xbox for the ToeJame & Earl 3 game. :lol

Oh, how I forced myself to love the mess out of it!

 

[SapientWolf]

Here's a group of multiplayer focused bargain bin games:

Future Tactics: The Uprising- $0.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=32792
Turn based strategy RPG from the creators of Wetrix.
The case for: Pick up and play multiplayer modes. XBox version is BC.
The case against: Repetitive single player.

Crashday- $4.89
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GAC4VW/?tag=neogaf0e-20
Arcade style racing game in the vein of Full Auto/Burnout/Flatout.
The case for: Looks great on a modern PC. Great for LAN parties.
The case against: No more online multiplayer.

The Outfit $6.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=39501
Third person, vehicle based action strategy game in the vein of Return Fire.
The case for: Full featured multiplayer that supports split screen and system link.
The case against: Dated graphics, awkward vehicle controls and so-so single player.

Drive to Survive- $4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=63632
Top down racing game from the creators of Micro Machines.
The case for: Same console four player multiplayer that's great for parties.
The case against: Slippery controls, frustrating single player.

 

[Cornbread78]

Radiata Stories–$9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=38544
The case for: Charming recruitemup with tons of characters.
The case against: Both endings suck horse-cock.

Although the recruitement is a direct rip-off of Suikoden, it's definately worth the 10 bucks as it is a really fun rpg to play.


I think Dragon Quest VIII falls at this same price and is definately worth it as well!

 

[jetsetfluken]

Thanks for the thread, I was shocked when I started rounding up last gen's essentials and gems when I realized just how many lost treasures there were on PS2/XB/GCN. PS2 being the big one.
I'll probably come in later with some suggestions.

Only problem for most? Many of the gems are rare or uncommon to find in Gamestop/EB retail stores and they have already been grabbed up within the last few years.
They stopped taking trades for Xbox 1 games in February 2009, but still take trades for PS2 of course. Not sure on GCN. Though I do know that whatever is there is there and there won't be anything else coming.

You have to be quick, or prepare to either use things like Ebay buying individually/shipped individually or just give up and brainwash yourself into thinking you've already played everything essential from last gen (sadly many people do this).

 

[Cday]

Do people still play Shadowrun online? For 5 bucks I would take a chance on it.

It has a very dedicated community.

 

[distantmantra]

Robot Alchemic Drive – 5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=25092
The case for: hop in a giant robot and punch other giant robots to death...or ignore the robots and just go punch buildings.
The case against: Definitely hasn’t aged well.

This is an awesome game that's definitely worth $5.99. Developed by Sandlot.

 

[Gravijah]

Gamestop has a bargain bin?

Have you never been to one? They have shitloads of them, entire table things filled with PS2 games mostly.

 

[gokieks]

Nightshade – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=32711
The case for: The main character is a total hottie.
The case against: That’s the only nice thing I can say about the game.

Shinobi – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=22402
The case for: Still one of the best action games of all time.
The case against: Final boss is still a whore.

Different tastes and all that, but I'm really not sure how you can consider Shinobi PS2 to be one of the best action games of all time yet also consider Nightshade to be completely terrible. Both are really flawed but fun games, but Nightshade is actually the one that I think most people would have a much better chance of finishing - it's still pretty damned hard, but not to the point of being so punishing that you think it's just cheap as Shinobi can sometimes be.

Gun Valkyrie – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=16523
The case for: Master the controls and it’s quite rewarding.
The case against: Shitty mission setup means you can’t replay missions for better ranks/more money. DUMB.

The case against definitely counts against it, but there's been few games quite as satisfying as this once you "get it".

 

[John]

Have you never been to one? They have shitloads of them, entire table things filled with PS2 games mostly.

Oh, those.

 

[Gravijah]

Oh, those.

I've seen a few traditional "bins" too, I think... Shit, I don't even remember.

 

[thetrin]

The most criminal part of Gamestop's bargain bin model is that some stores are now tossing boxes completely, and keeping all the discs in sleeves for people to purchase when they're at the register.

I don't really consider it a bargain if I'm not getting the entire package.

The current generation bargain bins are pretty good, though. I got a new wrapped copy of HOTD Overkill for $15 from one.

 

[jetsetfluken]

The most criminal part of Gamestop's bargain bin model is that some stores are now tossing boxes completely, and keeping all the discs in sleeves for people to purchase when they're at the register.

Good to know. I doubt the guys at my local store(s) do that, but you never know. Could be a new corporate order?
I always hate when they have an uncommon/rare PS2 title for example, but disc only.
Time is of the essence. I've been saying this for the last few years for people wanting to make "completing" their PS2/GC/XB collections easier, but the clock is ticking if you want to find anything relatively uncommon these days.

 

[OgTheClever]

Mirror's Edge new for less than a fiver: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Electronic-Arts-Mirrors-Edge-PS3/dp/B001GIOGDC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1279045615&sr=8-1

Probably the best bargain of this generation.

 

[TheYanger]

Deathrow – 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=23218
The case for: Insane sports game with lots of violence.
The case against: Career mode gets frustrating when your players decide to be a bunch of fuck-ups.

There really is no case against, the game gets challenging near the end but it's still pretty fair, amazingly fun four player. Works perfectly on 360, as far as I could tell last time I tried it. One of the most overlooked games last-gen. Seriously if you see this that cheap you should definitely buy it if you're at all interested in action or sports, it excels at both.

 

[Curufinwe]

Nice thread. Might be a good idea to add platform beside each game.

 

[mollipen]

Sega GT 2002 and Jet Set Radio Future doublepack – 99 cents

One of the most ridiculous values in gaming history. JSF Future is 100 shades of awesome, and then you get a second game with it.

Fighter Maker 2 – 1.99

I really need to spend some time with Fighter Maker 2 one of these days, especially after seeing that video. *heh*

Senko No Ronde – 2.99

I have this, and almost never play it, which I really should.

Kuon – 4.99

So if I (a) love survival horror, (b) was even able to enjoy things like Rule of Rose, and (b) am perfectly fine with games that have questionable levels of quality like Disaster Report and Raw Danger, should I go for this?

Fire Pro Wrestling Returns - 5.99

More shame on my part: I was huge into 6-Man Scramble, yet I've not even opened my copy of Returns yet. This definitely is a series that will only give you as much as you give it, for sure.

Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter – 5.99
Legend of Kage 2 – 6.99

Cannot recommend these two enough. Dragon Quarter was an interesting and daring RPG, and Kage 2 is just ridiculous amounts of fun. Very beautiful sprite art as well.

 

[mooooose]

Awesome fucking thread. I love these kinds of games and own a ton on this list.

 

[PepsimanVsJoe]

Different tastes and all that, but I'm really not sure how you can consider Shinobi PS2 to be one of the best action games of all time yet also consider Nightshade to be completely terrible. Both are really flawed but fun games, but Nightshade is actually the one that I think most people would have a much better chance of finishing - it's still pretty damned hard, but not to the point of being so punishing that you think it's just cheap as Shinobi can sometimes be.

Nightshade was made to be an easier game in all of the wrong ways. It offers multiple mid-level checkpoints but stretches the length of some stages to absurdity as a result(?). It offers more moves and techniques but the form and focus of the combat suffers. There are items that raise the max health but they become irrelevant due to cheap deaths in badly designed sections. The TATE combos are more lenient but the enemy arrangements tend to be awful. For every new idea Nightshade comes up with there's something that either springs up as a result or is somehow included for simply no good reason. Couple that with the usually terrible new art-direction and two of the worst vehicle sections in a game and yeah that's my take on it. The soundtrack is great though..I probably should have mentioned that earlier.

The case against definitely counts against it, but there's been few games quite as satisfying as this once you "get it".

True indeed. I just find the mission setup frustrating because Smilebit has this expectation that you'll get everything right the first time despite the unique controls and generally high level of challenge. It's similar to Megaman Zero 2 in that while that game is more traditional it refuses to give players special weapons if they don't achieve the best ranking on a stage...and stages can't be repeated(unless you reload saves..which is just annoying)

I also wouldn't consider the quality of Kuon "questionable". The presentation is amazing for one. It's 60 fps and everything from the menus to the cutscenes is polished quite well. I'm still shocked that seeing this game for $5 at a random Gamestop somewhere was literally the first time I ever heard of the game. Controls better than original RE as well.

 

[gokieks]

Nightshade was made to be an easier game in all of the wrong ways. It offers multiple mid-level checkpoints but stretches the length of some stages to absurdity as a result(?). It offers more moves and techniques but the form and focus of the combat suffers. There are items that raise the max health but they become irrelevant due to cheap deaths in badly designed sections. The TATE combos are more lenient but the enemy arrangements tend to be awful. For every new idea Nightshade comes up with there's something that either springs up as a result or is somehow included for simply no good reason. Couple that with the usually terrible new art-direction and two of the worst vehicle sections in a game and yeah that's my take on it. The soundtrack is great though..I probably should have mentioned that earlier.

I agree to an extent, and I definitely don't think Nightshade is a better game than Shinobi. But my point was just that I found it really odd to consider the former to be complete rubbish but the latter amazing when they're so similar (and really, terribly flawed) games. :lol

 

[mug]

I have the first, and I've rarely played it. Is the second REALLY that good as everyone makes it out to be?

Oh hell yes it is, one of the best games on the Xbox - what actually sold me on the system back in the day. However, one of the best qualities of the game was the multiplayer, which isn't available anymore.

 

[thatbox]

Spy Fiction – 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=30516
The case for: It’s a Metal Gear Solid clone and Forrest “F.K. in the coffee” Kaysen makes an appearance.
The case against: It’s inferior to MGS in every way except storyline.

You should add that the character design was done by Range Murata in your "case for" bit.

 

[JohnnyPanda]

Buffy The Vampire Slayer – 3.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/Produ...oduct_id=24544
The case for: Actually a fun beatemup.
The case against: No 360 BC.

Actually, both Buffy games have BC support on 360. They're a little rough now, but still lots of fun if you dig the show.

 

[JumpJeff84]

Mirror's Edge new for less than a fiver: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Electronic-Arts-Mirrors-Edge-PS3/dp/B001GIOGDC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1279045615&sr=8-1

Probably the best bargain of this generation.

Not to me. Did not enjoy that game at all.

 

[The Elite]

Everyone should buy F-Zero GX. Even if you don't own a system to play it on.

 

[Bebpo]

Great thread.

I'd argue Nightshade is still a great action game even if it's only half as good as Shinobi.

 

[OgTheClever]

Not to me. Did not enjoy that game at all.

It probably is a love/hate game, but it's by far my favourite of the last 4 or 5 years.

 

[jjasper]

It has a very dedicated community.

Hmm I might have to give it a try. Although dedicated community means I am going to get my ass handed to me the first week or so.

I present :

Stuntman Ignition- $5.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64670

Pros: Stunt drive in parodies of movies for high scores
Cons: If you don't like trial and error gameplay

 

[drizzle]

Samurai Warriors 2: Empires – 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64566
The case for: Use diplomacy to unite Japan under your rule.
The case against: X X X X X X X X X X X X Y Y Y X X X Y X Y X X X Y X Y

Do I, then, get sucked? Because if I do, that's a FOR in my opinion

 

[DidntKnowJack]

I have 5 Gamestop's within a 10 mile radius and none of them carry Xbox games anymore. Though that's not a big problem for me as I pretty much have all the old Xbox games I'll ever want. (I have about 50 of them.) But the last time I was in and they still had Xbox games, I picked up a copy of Deus Ex IW. Also, a copy of an old racing game called Apex. Anyone remember Apex?

On a side note, I also like scouring the used games in Gamestop. You never know what you're gonna find. I do that for fun on a saturday afternoon.

 

[PepsimanVsJoe]

Oh yeah some updates.

Winback - 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=11253
The case for - Port of a pretty good N64 game.
The case against - Shooting and especially killing take awhile to get used to. Fans of most modern shooters will find it best to avoid this game.

Dual Hearts - 2.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=21122
The case for - Action-platformer. Bit of Zelda, bit of Banjo Kazooie. Charming
The case against - Framerate is all over the damn place.

Otogi - 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=29486
The case for - Impressive action game with lots of destruction
The case against - Lack of 360 BC support.

Otogi 2 - 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=35148
The case for - Some say it's an even better game than the last one.
The case against - Some say it's even worse. Oh and 360 BC support =(

The Entire Devil May Cry Series - range from 3.99 to 9.99 a pop.
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=189
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=42614
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=66212 (PS3 version is 19.99...the heck?)

The case for - DMC1 was a ground-breaking action game, DMC3 is excellent, and DMC4 is alright.
The case against - DMC1 doesn't hold up too well, Dante is a massive dorkwad in DMC3, and DMC4 reuses content like cloth diapers.

 

[sixteen-bit]

Taito Legends 2 :bow:

 

[Oracle Dragon]

Oh yeah some updates.

Otogi - 4.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=29486
The case for - Impressive action game with lots of destruction
The case against - Lack of 360 BC support.

Otogi 2 - 9.99
http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=35148
The case for - Some say it's an even better game than the last one.
The case against - Some say it's even worse. Oh and 360 BC support =(

It's goddamn criminal that these are not BC. They are two of the handful of Xbox 1 games I keep on my shelf in the hope that, one day...

 

[faceless007]

A while ago I found the Unreal Anthology (PC) for $5. Not bad for 3 really good FPSs and a soundtrack CD.

 

[Loxley]

I found Star Wars: Rogue Leader and Battalion Wars for $7 each a month ago when my local Gamestop (which I visit about once every two years) had every single used Gamecube game they had in stock out on the floor (my assumption being they're just trying to get all of them out of the store). Both were easily worth it, as I'd never played either and had recently dug my GC out of retirement.

 

[rollingstart]

The most criminal part of Gamestop's bargain bin model is that some stores are now tossing boxes completely, and keeping all the discs in sleeves for people to purchase when they're at the register.

I don't really consider it a bargain if I'm not getting the entire package.

The current generation bargain bins are pretty good, though. I got a new wrapped copy of HOTD Overkill for $15 from one.

I'd say it is still a bargain. I mean, games through digital distribution are just the software too, and in a lot of cases, they are more expensive that the used games in the OP. N64 and PS1 games on Wii and PS3 are around $10 now, and I think Xbox games are $20 on XBL. Even classic games on Steam are $10+ when not on sale, and $6 is the average price on GOG. $5 for just the Shinobi disc is great.

I understand if you were a collector, but if you're out to just buy the game, these are great deals. It is true that generally they only give you to the disc, but not the original case or manual. Still, the biggest problem is finding Gamestop stores that have these games in stock.

 

[soldat7]

Prey is $3.99 and The Darkness is $5.99 (360 versions.)

I just bought Radiata Stories and I kinda hate it so far. Seems like a game for 8-year olds. :lol

 

[akachan ningen]

I just bought Radiata Stories and I kinda hate it so far. Seems like a game for 8-year olds. :lol

It gets harder.

but anyway, Fighter Maker is great. You can make awesome fighters like these in no time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1f6LC2f3yE

 

[robotzombie]

Samurai Western was one of the most fun times I've had during the ps2 era, and probably beats the entire ps360 era

 

[TheFLYINGManga_Ka]

I'm thinking about picking up Timeshift and the Darkness, which are $6 each.

Not bad.

 

[Bebpo]

but anyway, Fighter Maker is great. You can make awesome fighters like these in no time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1f6LC2f3yE

:lol

Samurai Western was one of the most fun times I've had during the ps2 era, and probably beats the entire ps360 era

I really need to get to playing this and WoTS3. Played the first hour or so of Western and enjoyed it but got sidetracked and never went back to it. Love the series.

I remember the engrish was incredible in Samurai Western.

 

[Ducks]

I'm loving that bin I've only seen it once recently but I bought a bunch of games out of it like RE5 and Blue Dragon.