Known as one of the greatest animated series of our time, Avatar: The Last Airbender had an incredible run during its time on air. Fueled by incredibly written characters, an engaging plot, and astounding animation sequences. Fans quickly and intensely fell in love with Avatar Aang (Zach Tyler Eisen) and his crew as they journeyed to stop Firelord Ozai (Mark Hamill).

The show ran for a total of three seasons, with almost every episode garnering an amazing critical response. The show and the franchise it spawned still have a plethora of fans to this day who are just as in love with it as they’ve always been. It’s known as one of the greatest television series for many very good reasons, and one of them is the great ratings of these astounding episodes.

20

“The Guru” (Season 2, Episode 19)

IMDb Score: 9.0/10

Image via Nickelodeon

A major motivation for the one and only Sokka’s (Jack Se Sena) character arc is the absence of his father, who had gone off to war without him—along with all the other men of his village—before the series begins. In “The Guru,” his father comes back into the picture, which does wonders for his character arc. Meanwhile, Aang meets Guru Pathik (Brian George) to receiveguidance at the Eastern Air Temple.

It’s in this episode in which Aang learns that he must abandon all Earthly possessions and wants to enhance his spiritual self. But when he sees a vision of his friends getting captured, he abandons his training. It is very much in the vein of Star Wars: Episode V — The Empire Strikes Back, and the entire episode works incredibly well on a thematic and narrative level.

19

“The Storm” (Season 1, Episode 12)

IMDb Score: 9.0/10

Image via Nickelodeon

Every good character arc comes with what is known as a character’s “ghost”—something that haunts them and holds them back from what they seek to or need to achieve in their arc. The best example of how to do this well is none other than “The Storm,” as the story depicts the truth behind both Aang’s and Prince Zuko’s (Dante Basco) stories.

It’s because of this that this entry in the first season is one of the most emotionally compelling episodes in the first season. This is where audiences finally get to see the full flashbacks to discover the events that haunt Aang and Zuko the most. They see what led up to Aang abandoning his people, and what happened to Zuko to “earn him” that scar on his face. It’s phenomenally well-written by the likes of Aaron Ehasz, John O’Bryan, and James Eagan, with story editing from Michael Dante DiMartino.

18

“The Chase” (Season 2, Episode 8)

IMDb Score: 9.0/10

Image via Nickelodeon

If there’s an absolutely ruthless antagonist (outside of the Fire Lord) in Avatar: The Last Airbender, it’s none other than Zuko’s little sister, Azula (Grey DeLisle). One of the episodes that best emphasizes this is the iconic “The Chase.” When Aang realizes Azula and her gals are chasing them, they have to improvise to survive.

By this point in the series, Azula has yet to really make her mark, but it’s here that she really defines herself as a force to truly be reckoned with. The group thought Zuko was bad? Azula is worse, and she proves it here. Aside from the external conflict she provides, the gang is having internal conflict, as well, adding to the complexity of the episode.

17

“The Day of the Black Sun” (Season 3, Episode 10)

IMDb Score: 9.1/10

Image via Nickelodeon

It’s always entertaining when the heroes think they have the upper hand against the enemy, only to be proven wrong and shown that they are, in fact, one step behind their foes. This exactly happens in “The Day of the Black Sun,” and that provides a sense of dread and loss for the future of the season.

A hard choice needs to be made at the end of this episode, forcing Katara (Mae Whitman) and Sokka to leave their father behind again in order to not be captured by the Fire Nation themselves. It’s a huge low point for the series and shows how much it’s going to take to actually take down the enemy at the end of the season.

16

“The Puppetmaster” (Season 3, Episode 8)

IMDb Score: 9.1/10

Image via Nickelodeon

Avatar: The Last Airbender has always been known to be a more character-focused/character-driven show, and Katara herself gets an incredible episode all to herself (and Zuko) in “The Puppetmaster.” The concept of “bloodbending” in this universe is so interesting and, honestly, brutal—discovered in this entry in Season 3.

Katara’s arc really finds a full-circle moment here. Throughout the entire series, she’s been compassionate and good, but has had a bit of a temper and rage inside of her that sometimes comes out. Here, she gets to face those things in full force, finally coming face-to-face with her own inner demons—Zuko guiding her on her journey.

15

“Lake Laogai” (Season 2, Episode 17)

IMDb Score: 9.1/10

Image via Nickelodeon

A minor character in Avatar: The Last Airbender who has some amazing character development is none other than Jet (Crawford Wilson), who began the series as a one-note antagonistic figure in Season 1 and returns in Season 2 with a lot more character depth, having learned his lesson. However, he’s proof that learning from a character arc doesn’t have to fully complete a character and can lead to yet another one.

The story within “Lake Laogai” is not only entertaining but compelling, given the fact that Jet’s return brings about a great arc for people to watch. As per usual, Zuko finds a way to really shine in this episode, as well, as his inner demons continue to conflict.

14

“The Blue Spirit” (Season 1, Episode 13)

IMDb Score: 9.1/10

Image via Nickelodeon

After Aang is captured by the Fire Nation and put in some serious trouble, it’s up to the incredibly unlikely choice: Zuko to save him — actually, the Blue Spirit (Zuko in disguise). This is truly one of the most well-plotted episodes in the entire fantasy show. The pacing is immaculate, and the action is beyond thrilling.

“The Blue Spirit” is a great introduction to Zuko’s character arc to come in the rest of the series. Sure, he’s doing his actions as the Blue Spirit for his own personal gain, but saving Aang is part of what really sparks something in him. Something that acts as a starting point for his redemption.

13

“The Blind Bandit” (Season 2, Episode 6)

IMDb Score: 9.1/10

The one and only Toph (Michaela Jill Murphy) is, without a doubt, one of the most popular characters in the entire series. Despite being added in Season 2 and not being part of the main cast from the beginning, she is written so well that she is instantly lovable, making this introductory episode a great start to her tenure in Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Aang needs an Earthbending teacher, and when they arrive in a new location, they discover Toph, battling in an arena and showing off her incredibly badass skills. She’s quite easily one of the strongest characters in the show, making this first episode one for the books, as Toph’s origin story is not only filled with great action, but a compelling story, as well.

12

“The Boiling Rock, Part 2” (Season 3, Episode 15)

IMDb Score: 9.3/10

Image via Nickelodeon

Everyone loves a good prison break, and when it comes to this series, “The Boiling Rock, Part 2” is the place to look. Aside from being a “Part 2,” this entry in the series feels like an event in and of itself, especially when the likes of Azula (Grey DeLisle), Mai (Cricket Leigh), and Ty Lee (Olivia Hack) make their way to the prison.There’s so much action, stakes, and great character moments that make the 15th episode of the final season so good. As per usual for Avatar: The Last Airbender, the animation is excellently animated by Nickelodeon Animation Studio, which allows the great fight sequences to truly shine during this prison break.

11

“The Firebending Masters” (Season 3, Episode 13)

IMDb Score: 9.3/10

Image via Nickelodeon

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Avatar: The Last Airbender has always been a gorgeous-looking show, but when it comes to the most beautiful episodes in the series, this one takes the cake. The sequence towards the end of the episode, in which Zuko and Aang come together for the “Masters” dragon dance, which utilizes colors in an astonishing display that is unforgettable.

While it doesn’t move the plot forward very far, the worldbuilding executed here helps expand the universe greatly, and really fleshes things out before getting to the latter half of the season, where the endgame story would begin. Zuko and Aang’s arcs both get great moments in this one, too.

Ariana Grande shared some “unfortunate” news about her Eternal Sunshine Tour ahead of upcoming shows on the East Coast.

“The utmost important thing to us all is safety, first and foremost, and also making sure you all see the show how it is intended to run,” Grande, 33, wrote to fans via Instagram on Monday, June 29.

The singer posted a message to fans to explain a series of scheduling changes for Eternal Sunshine concerts coming up in July. A planned July 12 show at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center will now move to July 14, while concerts at TD Garden in Boston on July 22 and July 24 are shifting to July 23 and July 26, respectively.

In her Instagram Story, Grande and her tour partners explained that the dates were being moved “to ensure the full production can be delivered safely and as intended.”

Grande is scheduled to perform five shows in Brooklyn from July 13 through July 19. All other concerts during that run “will take place as originally scheduled,” per organizers.

“We are so sorry for these unfortunate scheduling changes,” Grande wrote to fans. “This was our best and safest option as these challenges with production have come to our attention.”

She concluded, “Thank you so much for your understanding and I cannot wait to see you.”

Fans have documented Grande facing multiple technical challenges throughout the Eternal Sunshine Tour, which kicked off in Oakland, California, on June 6.

The tour was initially shrouded in controversy last year when tickets sold out almost immediately and then popped up on resale markets at inflated prices.

“Hi my angels, I have been on set all week, but I wanted to let you know that what’s been happening with the secondary ticket resellers has been brought to my attention,” Grande wrote to fans in September 2025. “Of course, I am incredibly bothered by it. I’ve been on the phone every second of my free time, fighting for a solution.”

She added, “I hear you and, hopefully, we will be able to get more of these tickets into your hands instead of theirs. It’s not right. I just wanted you to know that my team and I see it and that I care very much. We will do, and are doing, everything we can.”

Related: Ariana Grande Cries on Stage After ‘Overwhelming’ Performance

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Ariana Grande got very emotional during a performance in Los Angeles. “Thank you so much, oh, my God. L.A., thank you so much,” Grande, 32, said in footage from the second of four performances at Crypto.com Arena for her Eternal Sunshine Tour. “Are you kidding? What the hell? I’ve never in my life experienced a […]

The Eternal Sunshine Tour is Grande’s return to the road after a seven-year absence — and she has already teased that these shows will be her last for the foreseeable future.

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“I think the last 10 to 15 years will look very different to the ones that are coming up,” Grande revealed on the “Good Hang With Amy Poehler” podcast in November 2025. “I don’t want to say any definitive things.”

The “Hate That I Made You Love Me” singer then hinted, “I do know that I’m very excited to do this small tour, but I think it might not happen again for a long, long, long, long time. I’m gonna give it my all, and it’s gonna be beautiful, and I’m so grateful. I think that’s why I’m doing it because I’m like, ‘One last hurrah!’ — for now.”

The Eternal Sunshine Tour is currently scheduled to wrap up in September following 10 dates at London’s O2 Arena.

HBO has built a reputation for producing some of the greatest comedy series of all time, including Hacks, Barry, Veep, and, of course, Curb Your Enthusiasm. That winning streak isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Larry David, the creator of Curb Your Enthusiasm, has returned with a brand-new series that’s already become an instant hit for the streamer.

The new series is a comedy sketch show, with half-hour episodes featuring four skits each, all centered around specific historical events. It’s essentially Curb Your Enthusiasm with historical dressing. The first episode covers the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, Alexander Graham Bell‘s first phone call gone wrong with customer service, a cowardly soldier stuck in the World War I trenches, and an unlucky passenger who sits next to Rosa Parks and somehow manages to start a dispute.

Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness is a seven-part limited series now streaming on HBO Max. And according to FlixPatrol, it has become an international hit within a single day of its premiere on Friday, June 26. The series has already landed in the HBO Max Top 10 TV Shows chart in 35+ countries, including the United States, where it is currently the #2 most popular series.

Despite Streaming Success, ‘Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness’ Has Opened To Mixed Reviews

The chart performance is not entirely surprising. Any new streaming show tends to generate an immediate surge in popularity, and David’s return to comedy was always going to attract attention fast. What is more telling, though, is how the reviews have landed. The series currently holds a rotten 57% critics score and an even lower 42% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, both of which sit well below what viewers tend to expect from a David-led project.

The Rosa Parks sketch has been the one consistent bright spot, unanimously praised as vintage David and exactly the kind of payoff the premise promised. Everything before it, though, has drawn muted responses. The jokes and complaints feel recycled from the Curb playbook, just with historical costumes swapped in and nothing new to offer. The good news is that upcoming episodes have more varied and potentially richer territory to mine, including the Watergate scandal, the Boston Tea Party, the Moon landing, and the Wright Brothers‘ first flight. Here’s hoping that the show manages to win over audiences with the remaining six episodes.

Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness is available to stream on HBO Max. New episodes release weekly on Fridays at 9:00 p.m. ET.

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Release Date

June 26, 2026

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Network

HBO

Showrunner

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Jeff Schaffer

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Love Island USA‘s Zach Georgiou lied to Kayda Bosse about how his connection with Alannah Keyser ended.

During the Monday, June 29, episode of the Peacock show, Zach tried to reassure Kayda that she was always his first choice. He mentioned that his time in Casa Amor didn’t build a strong bond with Alannah because he came back solo.

“If I wanted to, I would have brought her back,” he claimed.

Viewers, however, know that Zach didn’t have the option to bring Alannah back because she was removed from the show after facing backlash for a resurfaced video that allegedly showed her using a racial slur.

The video and other posts were not shared publicly until after Alannah’s appearance on the show and thus were not accessible during the vetting process.

“Hi everyone, I’m coming on here to address some things that have been circulated online. I do want to begin by addressing the video of me singing along to a Roddy Ricch song that contains a racial slur. I’m sorry to whoever has seen that video and has been offended by it. That was never my intention,” Alannah said in a Saturday, June 27, TikTok. “The video is from six years ago and that word is just not in my vocabulary anymore.”

She continued, “I’d also like to address the screenshots that have been going around online that have been falsified. What has been shared does not reflect the truth and it has never been in my character to discriminate against anybody’s skin color. I do want to say directly that I do not support racism or discrimination of any kind and I never have.”

Earlier this season, another contestant, Vasana Montgomery, was cut from the show after resurfaced social media posts showed her using a slur. Similar issues arose during season 7 last year, with Yulissa Escobar leaving days into the experience after clips of her using racial slurs on a podcast circulated online.

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Cierra Ortega also faced backlash for using a slur in her own resurfaced social media post. She was pulled from the villa and later issued an apology for her past actions.

New episodes of Love Island USA are released six days a week — except for Wednesdays — on Peacock.

Join Us Weekly and Bracketology.tv in our first-ever Love Island USA fantasy league! This is your chance to predict who you think will win Season 8 and rank the Islanders weekly based on how confident you are that they will survive the next elimination. You will be playing against our editors, get access to exclusive content and have the chance to win fun prizes. Sign up for free today!

Louisa Levy’s Off Campus has topped Prime Video’s TV charts again this week, retaining its position as the number one show on the streaming service. An adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s hit book series of the same name, the show follows the story of a music student and a star hockey player who find unexpected romance. The romance drama has been warmly received by critics and fans alike ever since its premiere in May, and it’s been regularly topping the lists ever since. But in case that’s not quite what you’re in the mood for, there are still a lot more options to explore on the platform. Without further ado, here’s a look at three great shows that we think you should binge on Prime Video this week.

For more recommendations, check out our list of the best shows and movies on Prime Video.

1

‘The Girlfriend’ (2025)

A psychological thriller miniseries, The Girlfriend is an adaptation of Michelle Frances‘ 2017 novel, directed by Andrea Harkin and Robin Wright, who also stars in the show as wealthy art gallery owner Laura. After meeting her son Daniel’s (Laurie Davidson) new girlfriend, Cherry (Olivia Cooke), Laura grows suspicious of this newcomer in her life and sets out to discover her secret. Besides the leading trio, the series also stars Waleed Zuaiter, Tanya Moodie, Shalom Brune-Franklin, and more in supporting roles.

The Girlfriend debuted on Prime Video in September 2025 to a positive critical reception and became a hit with audiences as well. A twisty story of love, greed, and complex family dynamics, the series’ plot may be as pulpy as it gets, but it is elevated by the stellar performances. Wright and Cooke’s antagonistic chemistry carries the show through its rougher patches, delivering a soapy, melodramatic thriller that derives maximum tension from the psychological complexities of its characters.

2

‘Psych’ (2006–2014)

Created by Steve Franks, Psych is a detective comedy-drama series starring James Roday as Shawn Spencer, who claims to be a psychic but actually uses his impressive memory and observational skills to solve crimes. The series follows Shawn on various cases, consulting for the Santa Barbara Police Department with his best friend, Burton “Gus” Guster, and his father, Henry, a former detective. Dulé Hill co-stars as Gus and Corbin Bernsen as Henry, with Timothy Omundson, Maggie Lawson, Kirsten Nelson, and Anne Dudek in key roles.

Psych premiered on USA Network in 2006 with strong ratings and had a successful eight-season run on the network. Paired with the even more popular series Monk for its first three years, the two shows have become a favorite double-feature for fans, with both delivering a comparable mix of humor and mystery. And though the series itself ended in 2014, Psych has since spawned a film series that includes 2017’s Psych: The Movie, 2020’s Psych 2: Lassie Come Home, and 2021’s Psych 3: This Is Gus.

3

‘Harlan Coben’s Shelter’ (2023)

Developed by Harlan Coben and his daughter, Charlotte Coben, Harlan Coben’s Shelter is a mystery drama series adapted from Coben’s eponymous 2011 novel. The show explores the dark secrets hiding behind the quiet facade of a suburban community in Kasselton, New Jersey, which come to light after the mysterious disappearance of a young girl. The series stars Jaden Michael, Constance Zimmer, Abby Corrigan, and Adrian Greensmith in key roles.

One of the more acclaimed Harlan Coben adaptations of recent years, Shelter premiered to a favorable critical reception in 2023 and became a hit with audiences as well thanks to its engaging, twisty plot. Successfully combining high school drama with a dark, small-town thriller narrative, the series is as addictive as one of Coben’s novels and a highly binge-worthy pick for fans of the genre. The show features numerous twists, a gripping plot, and some great performances, making it a must-watch for fans of Coben’s signature style.

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Harlan Coben’s Shelter

Release Date

2023 – 2023-00-00

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Showrunner

Harlan Coben, Charlotte Coben

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Directors

Patricia Cardoso, Edward Ornelas, Christina Choe, Deborah Kampmeier

Writers

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Harlan Coben, Charlotte Coben

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Love Island USA‘s Jen Terry took issue with Gal Tshnieder not complimenting her enough.

“I think you’re so attractive and I love talking to you. We get along but I don’t think we have sexual compatibility,” Jen told Gal during the Monday, June 29, episode of the show.

Jen admitted she was questioning their connection, adding, “I just feel like you don’t like me and you don’t compliment me. I don’t remember one compliment you’ve said to me — and I feel like I would have at least had one in my head. The fact that I have none is alarming to me.”

She continued: “You have girls in here that you would like to get to know. So it kind of does make me feel like a second option.”

Gal, however, clarified that his only issue was public displays of affection, which is why he wasn’t kissing her in front of everyone in the villa. The duo agreed to keep working on their relationship — before Kenzie Annis made a move on him as well.

Jen has previously been surprisingly candid while in the villa. She previously admitted she has been struggling when guys in the villa don’t show interest in her.

“I know that I am gorgeous and stunning but here — besides when I was with Gabe — I felt like, ‘Am I hideous?’” she said in the Thursday, June 25, episode. “Is there something wrong with me? Does my personality suck?”

She continued: “Normally I am used to guys drooling over me. Here it has been so hard.”

Love Island USA follows a group of singles who must pair off in order to stay in the show’s luxury villa. The contestants — referred to as Islanders — live in isolation in a villa under constant video surveillance. They must be coupled up to remain on the show and earn a shot at the $100,000 prize.

The show is coming off a record-breaking moment with season 7 bringing in 18.4 billion streaming minutes, making it the most-watched original season of television on the platform.

“[This season] there’s a lot more emphasis put on the journey as opposed to the result,” narrator Iain Stirling told Us Weekly exclusively in July 2025. ”I think it’s about the journey of finding someone and how you grow as a person by doing that. Whereas five or six years ago, you had, like, proper millennials in there. There was that more traditional approach to dating.”

While some fans questioned the love journeys, Stirling was on board with the Islanders taking a different approach.

“The end goal [was] to be with someone and you have this contract with someone you’re in a relationship with to honor that person and to honor that relationship,” he noted. “I think now there’s a lot more people who make contracts with themselves to have the journey that they want and the experience they’re after.”

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He added, “These people are predominantly speaking in their early 20s. If you can’t be selfish dating then — then when can you? Especially people from my generation, they weren’t selfish in their 20s and maybe did not want to upset people. Then they get to sort of 30 to 40 and get divorced and go insane. Maybe it’s the healthier way to do it.”

New episodes of Love Island USA are released six days a week — except for Wednesdays — on Peacock.

Join Us Weekly and Bracketology.tv in our first-ever Love Island USA fantasy league! This is your chance to predict who you think will win Season 8 and rank the Islanders weekly based on how confident you are that they will survive the next elimination. You will be playing against our editors, get access to exclusive content and have the chance to win fun prizes. Sign up for free today!

From split pants and broken straps to showing more skin than initially anticipated, stars have had their fair share of cringe-worthy wardrobe malfunctions. And most of the time, it’s all going down in the public eye.

Whether something is snapping on live television or the wind caused a mishap en route to an event, everyone from Lindsay Lohan to Nicki Minaj has found themselves faced with a clothing crisis — but most are able to handle the debacle with ease.

Take Miley Cyrus for example. The singer kicked off 2022 with her NBC New Year’s special. And while her show was going off without a hitch, things took a turn just before midnight.

While in the middle of her “Party in the USA” performance, the strap on her top snapped right off. Rather than stop singing and scuttle off stage, she tossed her shirt aside, covered up her breasts with her arm and strut backstage to change into a blazer.

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She even joked about the incident after the fact, taking to Instagram to share a picture of her outfit in its glory. “Get a good look at the top that didn’t stay on very long …” she jokingly captioned her post.

Over the years, Justin Timberlake, Nikki Glaser, Olivia Rodrigo and Ariana Grande have all fallen victim to the dreaded wardrobe malfunction.

Scroll down to see the most embarrassing celebrity wardrobe malfunctions:

While the 80s are often credited as the decade that helped massively popularize video games for players around the world, the 90s were a monumental step forward for the medium with countless leaps forward in the first major step for treating them as works of art. With ever-growing technologies and approaches to game design, many of these titans of the decade are some of the most influential and important video game releases of all time.

Even more impressive is just how many of these games still hold up tremendously under a modern lens, able to be continously played time and time again without ever being tired of their seamless gameplay and impactful strengths. From top-notch multiplayer experiences that can be shared with friends to engaging single-player worlds filled with depth and intrigue, these games have maintained their strengths decades after their release and will forever be timeless classics of the medium.

10

‘Tekken 3’ (1997)

One of the biggest leaps that fighting games made during the 90s was the leap into the third dimension, and while games like the original Tekken and Virtual Fighter were vastly important for the genre, Tekken 3 still stands as one of the absolute greatest 3D fighting games of all time. The game sees the Tekken franchise truly hitting its stride in terms of great graphics, seamless and fluid gameplay, and a vast cast of memorable characters to create one of the definitive fighting game experiences of the decade.

It speaks volumes to the fact that even decades after the game’s release and a multitude of other Tekken sequels that have pushed the genre forward, there is still something compelling and energetic about Tekken 3 that makes it a great game to simply pick up and play with friends. Many inherent staples of the series would find their start in this game, largely paving the way for the success of the rest of the franchise and 3D fighting games as a whole.

9

‘Super Mario World’ (1990)

There is an inherent timelessness and passion placed into each of the main series Super Mario titles that make them some of the most celebrated and masterful platformers of all time. Super Mario World still stands as one of the defining 2D platformers and overall greatest games that Mario has ever been a part of, with a massive increase in scope and scale provided from the jump to the SNES from the NES. With more personality in the levels and a great mixture of difficulty and fun, Super Mario World still holds up tremendously as a top-notch platformer.

Especially with the game frequently being rereleased on the likes of the virtual console and Nintendo Switch Online, there are a multitude of ways for modern-day gamers to experience this timeless 90s platformer in all of its greatness. Nearly every modern 2D Mario game finds a lot of inspiration from this legendary title, as it pushed the needle forward for 2D platformers more than any other game of the decade.

8

‘Doom’ (1993)

First-person shooters continue to be one of the most popular styles of video game released in the modern age, with the Call of Duty and Halo franchises still selling millions of copies to dedicated fans time and time again. However, among all the classic FPS games that helped push the genre forward, Doom is still an absolute blast that is just as fun today as it was when it first released. Even with it not having a lot of the same quality of life elements of later FPS games, there is an untold catharsis of laying waste to demons that is unmatched by other shooters.

It’s this mixture of top-notch action with effective level design that has made the game a timeless classic and one of the most important games in the fps genre. There’s a reason that fans are so dedicated to the game that they find ways to get it to run on just about every piece of technology imaginable. Even with a myriad of great sequels to choose from, Doom is still a blast to play time and time again.

7

‘Street Fighter III: Third Strike’ (1999)

It might seem sacrilegious to not include Street Fighter II on this list, considering just how often the game is attributed to helping massively popularize fighting games as an entire genre. However, even within the 90s, Street Fighter and fighting games massively evolved to better hone in on their strengths, with the culmination of this brilliance coming in the form of Street Fighter III: Third Strike. This third iteration of the third Street Fighter game is so beloved and appreciated by players that several still consider it the greatest fighting game of all time.

It has a diverse and incredibly fun cast of characters to play as, while the core gameplay tailors itself to player expression and fluidity above all else. There is a reason that even after various other main-series sequels, Third Strike continues to be played at a competitive level, with it even being a main stage game at EVO as recent as 2024. While Street Fighter II may have the influence and legacy on its side, Third Strike is infinitely more fun and replayable to dedicated fans of the franchise.

6

‘Mario Kart 64’ (1996)

Mario Kart has been a staple of simple multiplayer fun for decades now, with nearly every entry in the franchise having the simple pick-up-and-play appeal that makes them always a blast to play with a group of friends. Even the very first game in the series to have 4-player multiplayer, Mario Kart 64, is just as fun and high-energy to play nowadays as it was when it first released. It stays true to the timeless strengths of the franchise, popularizing many of these strengths and cementing Mario Kart as an addicting multiplayer party experience.

This legendary racing game continues to be a blast thanks to its wide array of memorable and fun courses, as well as tight-knit controls that make it very easy to understand and get a handle on. Even non-gamers can very easily catch onto the fun and energy that Mario Kart provides, continuing to make this one of the strongest multiplayer experiences that the 90s has to offer.

5

‘Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings’ (1999)

Real-Time Strategy games really hit their stride in the 90s with a multitude of exceptional games that helped push the genre forward to new heights, with games like Starcraft and Command & Conquer still being massively celebrated by fans to this day. However, in terms of lasting legacy and continued playability in the modern era, nothing comes close to the masterful scope and gameplay of Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings. The game sees players gathering resources and building up their towns and armies to defeat opposing civilizations.

While the wide array of great single-player content helped give the game hours of content and impact, its the competitive multiplayer and online matchmaking that truly made Age of Empires and icon of the RTS genre. The craft and exceptionally balanced impact of building up a civilization against a seasoned opponent is still one of the best, most satisfying and high-level competitive multiplayer experiences of the RTS genre. Still being played by a dedicated player base to this day, Age of Empires II is one of the greatest RTS games of all time.

4

‘Super Metroid’ (1994)

Image via Nintendo

The initial games in the Metroid franchise were certainly well-made for their time, but Super Metroid‘s exceptional sense of scale and gameplay improvements not only cemented the franchise as one of Nintendo’s best, but it helped pave the way for an entire genre in its namesake. The pure catharsis of exploring a vast map, picking up upgrades and exploring every nook and cranny for secrets makes Super Metroid a truly special experience for the era.

This gameplay loop proves to be so effective that it acts as one of the core namesakes for the Metroidvania genre, an entire genre of exploration adventure games created in the wake of both Super Metroid and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Even after the Metroidvania genre has massively grown and evolved in the decades since its release, Super Metroid is still a blast to play, as the core tenets of its strengths stay true and timeless in their execution.

3

‘The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time’ (1998)

Image via Nintendo

The largest and most important trend and evolution for gaming in the 90s was easily the jump to 3D technology and gameplay at home consoles, with many of the most iconic and revolutionary games of the era making use of the new potential of 3D. As such, it isn’t a surprise that The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, the first 3D Zelda game, elevated the legendary adventure series to untold new heights, still being considered one of the greatest games of all time.

From the vast open world of Hyrule to an array of memorable dungeons to explore, Ocarina of Time distills the pure magic of a fantasy adventure into its purest form, being one of the absolute best fantasy games of all time in its execution. With so many side-quests, collectibles, and secrets to uncover, it’s a game that will always be a blast to play from beginning to end, as a core fundamental experience for many games.

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‘Final Fantasy VII’ (1997)

Final Fantasy was already the absolute face of JRPGs during previous generations, although Final Fantasy VII proved to be such a monumental step forward not just for the franchise, but for video game storytelling as a whole. It’s an exceptional story of freedom fighting against a ruthless corporate entity, siphoning the resources of a magical world, which is still incredibly compelling all these years later, made all the better by the cast of great characters and an engaging, nearly 100-hour gameplay experience.

The game has grown not just into being the most recognizable and iconic Final Fantasy game, but the most recognizable JRPG of all time, having a massive influence across the entire genre and furthering its icon status with a multitude of remakes and spinoffs. There’s simply so much content within the game that it’s impossible to experience everything on a single playthrough, making the game perfect for being replayed and reexperienced to see what all the game has to offer.

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‘Super Mario 64’ (1996)

While Mario had already proven himself to be an absolute titan of 2D platformers in the years before, Super Mario 64 was a major test for not just the franchise, but the longevity and possibilities of 3D platformers as a subgenre. Needless to say, Super Mario 64 proved to be so whimsical and exceptionally crafted that it helped fully establish Super Mario as the king of 3D platformers just as much as 2D platformers. With so many wild worlds to explore and fun around every corner, Super Mario 64 is one of the definitive gaming masterpieces of the 90s.

Its greatest strength, however, comes from just how easy it is to pick up and have a blast with it, whether a player is fully experienced with the game’s world and secrets or playing a 3D platformer for the first time. Its strengths are core to the wonder of video games as a whole, giving greater attention to the joys and feelings felt by the player as they control Mario through its various platforming challenges and puzzles.

Taylor Frankie Paul’s ex, Dakota Mortensen, called the cops with questions about the exes’ protective order amid their ongoing custody battle.

The Bluffdale Police Department confirmed to Us Weekly on Monday, June 29, that Mortensen, 33, called the authorities at around 10 p.m. on Friday, June 26. According to the police, Mortensen called with questions about the protective order that he and Paul, 32, have regarding 2-year-old son Ever’s visitation, specifically about who can help with the drop-off and pick-up exchange. Mortensen wanted to know if the protective order had been violated.

Officers made contact with Paul via a phone call and gathered statements from all parties involved. The case was sent to the District Attorney’s office, who will decide if a violation occurred.

The Bluffdale Police Department’s investigation will be complete unless the district attorney says a violation occurred.

Related: Taylor Frankie Paul’s Attorney Addresses Custody Hearing, Protective Order

Taylor Frankie Paul’s attorney is speaking out after a judge issued both the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star and her ex Dakota Mortensen protective orders during a custody hearing on Thursday, April 30. “Today’s hearing was a significant step forward as the court entered protective orders requiring that Taylor’s ex-partner stays far away from […]

Us has reached out to Paul, Mortensen and the District Attorney’s office for comment.

Following the incident, Paul took to social media to slam Mortensen for reaching out to the authorities.

“Cops called on me again THIS WEEK … What are the odds?” the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star wrote in a since-deleted Instagram Story, according to a screenshot shared via TMZ. “And it’s not people … it’s ONE person, the same person. It’s obsessive.”

Paul and Mortensen have been involved in an ongoing custody battle over Ever following multiple domestic violence incidents and allegations. Earlier this year, Mortensen alleged Paul had been physically violent with him during a February incident. According to court documents obtained by TMZ at the time, Mortensen claimed that he and Paul had an altercation at her house where she allegedly choked him and shoved him into a window. Mortensen alleged that Paul was “emotionally volatile” and he was fearful for their toddler’s safety. Paul has vehemently denied the allegations of child abuse.

Mortensen was later granted temporary custody of Ever. Paul, for her part, filed for a protective order against Mortensen, claiming that he assaulted her in his truck. The order was granted and a judge ruled that the exes have to stay at least 100 feet away from each other.

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Related: Taylor Frankie Paul Hugs Dakota Mortensen’s Mom After Custody Hearing

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Taylor Frankie Paul hugged Dakota Mortensen’s mom after the former couple’s custody and protective order hearing on Thursday, April 30. Taylor, 31, was pictured embracing Cheyenne Cranford Mortensen inside Salt Lake City’s Third District Courthouse following Thursday’s hearing, during which a judge issued Taylor and Dakota, 33, protective orders against each other. The exes share […]

Earlier this month, a judge ruled that Paul no longer needed supervised visitation of Ever and that she can have her son on alternative weekends and one midweek day as long as the child does not spend the night. (Taylor also shares two kids with her ex-husband, Tate Paul.)

Taylor and Mortensen are scheduled to appear in court on July 8 for another custody hearing.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.