Soulcalibur

There are ports, and then there is Soulcalibur on the Dreamcast - a home version that not only caught up with its arcade original but outright overtook it. In 1999 it was the moment when players understood that Sega's new console meant graphical superiority in absolute earnest.

This weapon-based 3D fighting game from Namco built on duels of swords, scythes and spears, where each character wielded a different weapon with its own reach and rhythm. The key innovation was the 8-way run system, that is, free movement in eight directions, which gave the fights a spatiality and tactical depth that fighting games of the time rarely offered. Dodging to the sides, circling around the opponent and timing strikes elevated combat to an elegant fencing.

Visually it was the absolute top. The home version added sharper textures, smoother animations and richer environments than the coin-guzzling arcade had. Reviewers reacted with enthusiasm and the game gathered then wholly exceptional ratings on the edge of perfection, thereby ranking among the best-received titles of its time.

Beyond the combat core it offered rich accompanying content - unlockable characters, missions and challenges that extended the longevity far beyond the scope of a common arcade conversion. For Dreamcast owners it was the ideal title with which to show off the console's capabilities right at its launch.

The Soulcalibur series then continued with further installments on various platforms, but it is this Dreamcast first entry that tends to be remembered as the moment when everything came together perfectly - technology, gameplay and timing.

Why play it: It is cited to this day as one of the best ports and one of the most elegant weapon-based fighting games ever.