Smash bros, but the characters play exactly like they do in their games, with minimal creative liberties to make the characters work. Mario has to juggle powerups that work just like in his basic titles, Samus has her run-and-gun style of combat, Link has to keep track of and replenish resources, etc...
Thoughts?
Imagine Smash was first created today and the devs weren't biased towards any specific game company. They have the ability to add anyone they want, but want to prioritize the most iconic, important, and influential characters in gaming history. Who would be the first to be added? How much of the actual Smash roster would get to stay? Let's start with a just a roster the size of the original N64 title, twelve characters in total, four of which are unlockable. Preferably no joke characters (i.e., Pirahna Plant) unless you have a really good idea.
Edit: my personal list would probably look something like:
But that is also based on which characters I find most interesting. I think a lot of those deserve to be there, but I also am not the most thorough gaming history buf, so constructive criticism is appreciated.
Also, you could use stages or assist tropheys to represent games that can't necessarily produce a viable fighter, but still absolutely deserve representation. For example, a Tetris stage would be ideal for me, as well as a FNAF stage (kind of stupid, but you gotta admit, that franchise left one hell of a footprint on gaming and internet culture as a whole).