I dont think i have seen a topic like this in gaming, and i was sitting reminiscing about old Mega Drive games today. It made me think about the unique animals/creatures that you get to ride on and also possibly in some cases use as a weapon or power-up. I will start by what game made me think of this:
Flintstones - Red Bird
http://www.mobygames.com/images/shots/l/33819-the-flintstones-genesis-screenshot-i-can-fly-i-can-fly-s.gif
You got this bird when it hatched from an egg on various levels, which allowed you the ability to fly. Not only that, but it was able to breathe fireballs out, killing some of the nasty enemies this game had.
Golden Axe - Blue Dragon
http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/103/1039474/GoldenAxeInline_1256673022.jpg
This was my favourite steed quite simply because of the flame attack it had. It differed from the red dragon, which shot out individual fireballs, which were oddly a bit too inaccurate and slow to fire. Combined with the running attack, i much preferred the blue dragon over both the red dragon and also the cockatrice.
Legend of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time/ Twilight Princess
http://bulk2.destructoid.com/ul/177411-top-ten-most-wanted-announced-3ds-games/3DSOcarina-620x.jpg
She doesnt have a attack of sorts, but the speed aspect to trample enemies definitely means she can be included in the list. Since Ocarina of Time, i have loved just galloping about Hyrule on Epona. Just changed the complexity of the game for me, especially after learning her song as child Link, and then rescuing her from Lon Lon Ranch as adult Link.
Twilight Princess has almost the game effect on he when i first seen her, only more bulkier and defined (although Eiji Aonuma has never confirmed that the horse was in fact Epona.. Her presence was missed greatly in Skyward Sword, and sorry no, Loftwing aint no substitute at all. I hope we see her back in Links next adventure.
So whats your favourite steed!!