Dozens of Nintendo heroes, a festive brawl, and a technical depth that spawned a whole competitive scene.

With no direct preference vote, the detail draws a contrasted profile. Attachment climbs very high, ahead of 94% of games, carried by the nostalgia and passion it sparks. Fun and controller feel follow, well above average. On the other hand, the wish to rediscover it and the desert island pick fall low. Consistent: Melee is a game you replay endlessly with friends or in tournaments, not an adventure you discover once, and its 2001 GameCube trappings count for little next to its depth of play.

Next to other fighting games, it founded an esport discipline still alive more than twenty years on, a rare feat.

So, who is it for? For you if you like technical brawling, competition, and multiplayer controller nights. Much less if you mostly play solo or if the game's age holds you back.