Remembrances of Games Past, Part #30 - Quake II (1997) (PC) (id Software)
3Quake II may not include as historically important elements as the polygonal revolution of Q1 or the unique multiplayer focus of Q3, but the second game in id Software's seminal FPS series delivers such an incredibly fast-paced, action-packed shooter experience that it simply doesn't matter that the game is not quite as ground-breaking from a gameplay perspective. The consistent use of sci-fi settings (some of which are even brightly lit!) and adrenaline-pumping metal soundtrack immediately sets the game apart from its inexplicably morose predecessor, the weapons are very satisfying and the enemy variety is likewise commendable. It's certainly no surprise that of the three Quake games, only Quake II got a "proper" sequel.
On a side note, the release of Quake II in 1997 happened to be the first time I got myself a legal (i.e. non-pirated) copy of any game by id Software... ;)