Ninja Destroyer
Arcane
MDK was a gimmick shooter with occasional shit platforming in which you basically never need to aim. The entire game was also about 1.5 hour long (not exaggerating).
I bet most people who "fondly remember" the game only played the demo with the first level or something. It did have a kickass intro and a pumping soundtrack at the start.
Joined: Wednesday
MDK provided the most funny and unexpected story with the mix of shooting and platform game. The level bulding, strange alien enemies and bizzare humour were a big part of the success of it. The chaingun + sniper rifle as a main weapons plus various ammo and power ups are enough to not bore the player. And let's not forget about bombing or skating sections, plus dropping down from orbits and the Earthworm Jim - like moment with the "race". MDK is one of the best action games of the 90's period. Tommy Tallarico made impressive soundtrack that still holds nice, add to this mixture a great sound desing and you've got a whole package. Oh, and like JC said, you need to 6-7 hours to beat it.