It really depends on what types of games you're interested in. My personal preferances may be quite divergent from yours. I like RPGs. I have no idea where your preferances lie.
If I were to list games, old and new, that I like, it would be a long list of excellent RPGs. Breath of Fire I and II, Golden Sun I and II, and the Megaman Battle Network series are all excellent "older" choices. Riviera: The Promised Land is a surprise, overlooked jewel. They, however, aren't "pick me up" games.
A good "pick me up" game I've heard of is Warioware. I believe, actually, there are two Warioware titles out, one using gyroscopic control. Another "pick me up" game is Yoshi Topsy-Turvy, also utilizing gyroscopic control. They are unique titles; 'tis for sure.