Fans of video game franchises are always hopeful for revivals of their favorite series. However, sometimes having no entry at all may be preferable to having poorly managed ones. This article explores ten franchises that have failed to satisfy fans’ expectations due to mismanagement.
Sonic the Hedgehog
The Sonic the Hedgehog series has seen its fair share of ups and downs. Once a formidable rival to Mario, the franchise has struggled in recent years. Games like Sonic 2006 and the Sonic Boom spin-off series received negative reception due to poor development decisions. However, there are alternative games that capture the essence of Sonic’s speedy platforming, such as Action Henk, Tembo the Badass Elephant, and even the Rayman series.
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Fable
The Fable series initially impressed fans with its morality system and innovative gameplay. However, as the series progressed, it deviated from its roots with titles like Fable Heroes, Fable: The Journey, and Fable Legends, ultimately leading to the closure of developer Lionhead Studios. Although there are other fantasy action-RPGs like Dragon Age: Inquisition and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt that share similarities with Fable, fans still yearn for the quirky charm of the original series.
Ultima
Ultima was once a prominent RPG franchise, but it has faded into obscurity in recent years. With no main entry since 1999, fans have had to settle for spin-offs that didn’t capture the essence of the original games. The upcoming Underworld Ascendant aims to bring back the classic Ultima experience, and Ultima creator Richard Garriott is involved in the development of Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues, a modern take on the franchise.
Castlevania
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The early Castlevania games were beloved for their dark, gothic atmosphere and tight side-scrolling gameplay. However, the series has struggled with the Lords of Shadow reboot and strange adaptations like erotic pachinko machines. Independent developers have recognized the demand for classic Castlevania experiences and are creating titles like Heart Forth, Alicia, Chasm, and Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night to satisfy fans.
Mega Man
Capcom’s Mega Man franchise, known for its challenging 2D platforming, has been neglected in recent years. The lack of a new mainline entry and questionable spin-offs have disappointed fans. Fortunately, former Mega Man producer Keiji Inafune is developing Mighty No. 9 as a spiritual successor to the series. Other games like Azure Striker Gunvolt and Shovel Knight also capture the essence of classic Mega Man gameplay.
Metroid
Designed on the shoulders of Metroid Fusion and Metroid: Zero Mission, the Metroid series has struggled to deliver what fans want – more 2D exploration. Instead, fans have been met with mixed reactions to the Metroid Prime trilogy and the poorly received Other M. Indie games like Axiom Verge, Ori and the Blind Forest, and Ghost Song offer modern takes on the classic Metroid formula.
Star Wars: Battlefront
After the cancellation of Star Wars: Battlefront III, the franchise went into limbo until the release of EA and DICE’s Star Wars: Battlefront. While the game was visually stunning, the lack of content and expensive season pass generated controversy. Although Battlefront continues to receive updates and expansions, other competitive shooters like Call of Duty and Overwatch offer more robust experiences, despite not having the Star Wars license.
SimCity
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SimCity is the epitome of city-building games, but the 2013 release received backlash due to online requirements and restrictive city sizes. Cities: Skylines, developed by Colossal Order, filled the void left by SimCity with its retro feel, large plots of land, and mod-friendly gameplay. The game has received post-release expansions, ensuring a satisfying experience for fans of the genre.
Star Fox
The Star Fox series reached its peak early on with Star Fox and Star Fox 64. Subsequent entries like Star Fox Adventures and Star Fox: Assault deviated from the classic formula, disappointing fans. Modern space combat games like Strike Suit Zero, Ace Combat 7, and Race the Sun offer alternatives for fans seeking similar gameplay experiences.
Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid is the only franchise on this list without a poorly received recent release. However, behind-the-scenes issues between Hideo Kojima and Konami led to a somewhat rushed conclusion and Kojima’s departure. The departure of the iconic director leaves the future of the series uncertain. Fans can only hope that Kojima’s new studio will produce games that capture the essence of the Metal Gear series.
FAQs
Q: Are there any upcoming games or revivals for these franchises?
A: Yes, several franchises have upcoming releases or spiritual successors in development, such as Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night (Castlevania), Mighty No. 9 (Mega Man), and Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues (Ultima).
Q: Can fans find similar gameplay experiences in other games?
A: Absolutely! There are several alternative games mentioned in this article that capture the essence of the neglected franchises. Fans can enjoy games like Action Henk, Dragon Age: Inquisition, and Cities: Skylines.
Q: Will these franchises ever return to their former glory?
A: While it is uncertain whether these franchises will regain their past glory, there is always hope. Independent developers and spiritual successors are striving to fill the void and offer fans the experiences they crave.
Conclusion
It can be disheartening for fans when beloved franchises fail to meet their expectations due to mismanagement. However, alternative games and upcoming releases provide hope for fans who long for the return of these once-great series. With the dedication of developers and the support of passionate communities, these franchises may one day reclaim their former glory.
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