I was fond of the classics, the ones that really started it all. The one that really was the most different from all of the rest was the Adventure of Link since all combat was side-scrolling, Link could jump, experience can be gained (attack, defense, and magic efficiency improved with each level), and spells could be learned.
I sorta wish they could apply that style to newer versions (and yet maintain the engine they have been using since Ocarina of Time).