Pokémon Stadium 2 (Nintendo 64)

The battle to be a master Trainer continues, and Pokémon Stadium 2 delivers everything -- and more -- that a Pokéfan would want to see in a sequel. With tougher battles, sharper-looking graphics and a stadium full of extras, Pokémon Stadium 2 is tilted in favor of Poké-fans who can play using the Transfer Pak (not included) that allows uploading personally trained Pokémon from Pokémon Gold, Silver, Yellow, Red or Blue. You're in for tough going if you rely strictly on the Rental Pokémon included with the Pak.

Pokémon Stadium 2 bristles with new attacks, new Pokémon and new strategies. The very deep academy features an outstanding series of tutorials as well as an extremely comprehensive Poké-reference library. For a lighthearted break, one to four players can play 12 new arcade-style minigames, such as a Chansey's egg-catching competition. Do well in these and you'll win coins that you can transfer (via the Transfer Pak, natch) to Pokémon Gold or Silver's Game Corner.

With the Transfer Pak, players can play their Pokémon Gold, Silver, Yellow, Red and Blue on a TV and even view their decorated bedroom from Pokémon Gold or Silver.