It wouldn’t be a new year without a top 10 list, so I’ve decided to make one. 2011 was, in my opinion, a defining year for this generation of gaming, and while it brought some disappointments, like everything Capcom did throughout the entire year, I played some games that I will never forget. Here’s the list of my personal favorite games from 2011.

New Yorkers rejoice! Well, those who like Mario, at least. Then again, that's probably everyone. So, New Yorkers rejoice! Celebrating the release of Super Mario 3D Land, set for US release on November 13, Nintendo is bring Mario-related celebrations to Times Square in New York City one day before the release.

Nintendo is known for having some great game launches, so how are they handling their flagship character? By turning Times Square into the Mushroom Kingdom. Guests will nab Tanooki ears and tails while running through green pipes, grabbing coins, and leaping towards the famous flag pole. In pure Nintendo fashion, the Big N will be handing out game-related food. The first 1,000 guests to tweet at the event using the #SuperMario3D hashtag will able to munch on a slice of Mushroom Pizza! Oh, you clever, clever people!

Think that is already great? Think again! Toys 'R Us in Times Square will be holding a limited sale of the game one day early. Sounds pretty amazing. So if you're in the area on November 12 at 10 AM, why not stop by and pretend you're Mario* for a while?

*Princess not included

In 1981, Nintendo released a game called Donkey Kong. This game also marked the first appearance of a little known character called Mario (named "Jumpman" at the time). Little did people know, this game started a video game series starring a character whose recognition rivals Mickey Mouse in this day and age. To celebrate such a momentous achievement, 40 Japanese creators created this 18 minute music video spanning almost every game in the Mario series, including some spinoffs.

Cramming 30 years worth of (remixed) music into one video is an impressive feat on its own. But being able to make it look and, more importantly, sound amazing is in a league of its own. I can't recall ever watching a video on Youtube that's 18 minutes long from start to finish that wasn't something that should be removed due to copyright infringement. But I did just that without even realizing it. The video features music from so many games, it's nothing short of remarkable. If you have 18 minutes to spare, I sorely recommend watching this amazing piece of work.

It took 30 years for this to happen. I'll gladly wait another 30 to see what has yet to come.

Today marks an important day in the history of gaming. 25 years ago, on Sept. 13, 1985 Super Mario Bros. was released in Japan!