At the turn of the millennium, early 3D efforts such as Shenmue and Grand Theft Auto III set the blueprint of expansive spaces and nonlinear play, and by the mid-2010s, the games had evolved into near-photorealistic behemoths created by workforces spanning many continents. (the verge)

Mr. Grant, the editor of the popular Web site joystiq.com, who selected Super Mario Bros. 3, said the game was important for its nonlinear play, a mainstay of contemporary games, and new features like the ability to move both backward and forward (Gainesville.com)

When the sentry pods are deactivated players are given powered up weapons until they are deactivated and have to go beck to Medic Respawn Station. The entire event allows interactive, nonlinear play on massive battlefields or sets all while having live scoring! (Ghostly Games)