As a seasoned gamer with over two decades under my belt, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of nostalgia when reminiscing about some of these forgotten gaming jewels. The “Zone of the Enders” series is one such gem that has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind. Its fast-paced mech combat and engaging narrative were a breath of fresh air in the early 2000s, offering a unique blend of anime aesthetics and console gameplay that I hadn’t experienced before.
Were there specific periods during your gaming life when you invested a significant amount of time playing games that are no longer available today?
Have you sometimes pondered about why certain game series seem abandoned, while we keep getting new versions of games that many people aren’t eagerly anticipating as time goes on?
As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but notice the surge of classic games receiving updates and enhancements. It’s as if every corner of the gaming world is being revisited. So, let’s ponder on some game franchises that could benefit from a new lease of life!
12 Legend of Dragoon
An Underrated Gem
While the Legend of Dragoon may not stand as a timeless masterpiece in today’s gaming landscape, its narrative and concept remain among the best in the esteemed realm of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPG).
In this tale, the twist ranks among the most captivating in the JRPG world, keeping you hooked from start to finish. However, what truly shines and steals the spotlight is the intense, engaging combat system.
The addition system was so unique, requiring you to time your button presses to execute various combos, and the Dragoon transformations and subsequent attacks were some of the best of its time, rivaling contemporaries like Final Fantasy.
In the game “Legend of Dragoon,” the world is simply stunning. It has a rough, subdued color scheme that sometimes opens up to breathtaking panoramas and enchanting, fantastical landscapes which were captivating back then.
In this modern gaming landscape, I can’t help but imagine our combat system evolving into something reminiscent of the captivating style found in ‘Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth’. Frankly, such an enhancement would be more than enough to elevate the overall experience.
The tale remains splendidly crafted, brimming with unexpected plot shifts, jaw-dropping instances, and extended battles reminiscent of today’s Japanese role-playing games.
The classic game Legend of Dragoon has resurfaced on the PlayStation Network, boasting numerous quality-of-life enhancements that have significantly improved the gaming experience compared to its original release.
In a rather intriguing decision, it seems they might be exploring the feasibility of a remaster or reboot. Given the resurgence of Japanese Role Playing Games (JRPGs), it wouldn’t be amiss to suggest that one of the most underappreciated JRPGs could spearhead this revival with a complete overhaul.
11 Ninja Gaiden
Ryu, Kratos Made the Jump, So Why Can’t You?
In the mid 2000s, the revamped version of Ninja Gaiden became a massive success, leading to several follow-ups and re-releases that did well. However, the last game in the series, Ninja Gaiden 3, failed to live up to expectations as its gameplay style differed significantly from previous versions, leaving fans disappointed.
For those not familiar, Ninja Gaiden immerses you into the high-octane world of Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja character who often finds himself in intricate narratives filled with intense action that results in countless spilled human and monster blood. The gameplay is remarkably swift, demanding quick reflexes and constant vigilance to stay alive, as you dart through your surroundings.
Redefining these games as timeless masterpieces within the action genre, it’s evident that their original style has largely vanished in the Triple-A market today. A modern take on Ninja Gaiden, with a slightly more authentic ninja feel, might be an effective revival approach.
In a similar vein to how Kratos evolved in God of War, Ryu could be reimagined as a more mature, somber character in a setting less chaotic than his adventures in Ninja Gaiden 1-3. Alternatively, we might witness the return of the frenetic action that characterized the games from the mid-2000s. Both options are intriguing, and fans are eagerly awaiting a reprisal of the thrilling gaming experience offered by Ninja Gaiden.
10 Jade Empire
The Only Game of Its Kind
Following the blaze they ignited with Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Bioware ventured forward with what seemed like the beginning of another potential franchise, namely Jade Empire.
In this role-playing game, you find yourself immersed in ancient China, assuming the role of a martial arts apprentice whose homeland is suddenly invaded. This sets off a captivating tale filled with distinctive characters and plot twists reminiscent of the timeless storytelling that BioWare is renowned for.
The game was incredibly successful and offered a unique, refreshing take on the role-playing genre. It boasted numerous distinct playstyles to grasp and perfect, while its real-time combat represented BioWare’s inaugural foray into this area, resulting in an exceptional performance.
In my gaming experience, I found myself needing to strategize my strikes wisely, conserve energy, and stay vigilant against adversaries to handle the relentlessly challenging battles the game presented.
Despite this achievement not spawning a subsequent project, Bioware opted to venture into space for their renowned Mass Effect series, and there’s no denying their decision was well-justified.
Despite the negative sentiment surrounding them lately, given their upcoming release of “Dragon Age: Veilguard”, it might be worth revisiting a game that could use a follow-up.
In today’s world, an empire inspired by the lore of Jade, much like Ghost of Tsushima but transposed to China, where martial arts take the place of samurais, would be nothing short of astounding – a guaranteed recipe for success!
9 Syphon Filter
Remember This Action Hero?
In the late nineties and early 2000s, Syphon Filter was a captivating video game franchise. While Solid Snake and Sam Fisher were well-known characters, Gabe Logan, who occupied the middle ground between the two, also held significant importance. Unlike other games, Syphon Filter combined stealth elements with lots of action, and it delved deep into espionage intrigue, making it feel more real than, say, Metal Gear Solid.
As a devoted fan, I found Gabe Logan an engaging protagonist throughout the six-game series. Although it may not have ruled the gaming world, the franchise consistently delivered quality gameplay from one installment to the next. Among the best were the PSP titles such as Syphon Filter: Logan’s Shadow, which truly shone as the crown jewel of the series.
In straightforward terms, this particular style of game no longer exists; it’s as clear as day. The iconic action hero has met his end, and regrettably, Gabe Logan’s espionage escapades were laid to rest in the late 2000s alongside other legends of the genre.
This game has a lot of untapped potential, and it could greatly benefit from being updated to align with current gaming trends. The main character is already primed for victory, but what truly shines are the intricate level designs, the mind-blowing mission sequences throughout the game series, and the superb narrative writing – all of which have the makings of a blockbuster hit in today’s market.
In its initial release, it was somewhat overshadowed by higher-budget counterparts, but with those now vanished, there’s a noticeable gap in the stealth action genre. Given the current situation where popular franchises from the early days of gaming are resurfacing, this could be an excellent opportunity to reintroduce one of the more successful series that helped establish gaming as mainstream.
8 Tenchu
The Original Shadows
Initially when the trailer for “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice” was unveiled, some spectators speculated it as a revival of the beloved series “Tenchu“. However, it turned out to be something different from that, but since FromSoftware is in charge, there’s always the possibility that they could revisit the classic stealth ninja game as their next major production.
This stealth game, reminiscent of both Splinter Cell and Tenchu, showcases a unique breed. Set amidst ancient Japan, it boasts some of the most gruesome kill moves in the gaming world during its era, and it’s notoriously challenging too.
Among all the games in the series, it’s undeniable that the standouts were “Tenchu: Stealth Assassins” and “Tenchu: Rise of the Stealth Assassins”. These games truly excelled in stealth mechanics for their time, and they also offered satisfactory combat using katanas, just in case your stealthy tactics didn’t work out.
Additionally, it included a custom mission maker, allowing you to fully design your own levels. This is a feature that’s regrettably absent in numerous games nowadays.
As a gamer, I’d describe a contemporary version of Tenchu as having the intense combat and stealth mechanics of Sekiro, but without the supernatural elements. Instead, it would emphasize the art of staying unseen, more like a miniature Ghost of Tsushima experience.
With FromSoftware’s mastery behind it, it would be an awesome thing to see.
7 Deus Ex
We Keep Asking For This
The “Deus Ex” gaming franchise stands out distinctly among others, with no new releases since 2015’s “Deus Ex: Mankind Divided”. In simpler terms, after that year, there have been no further installments in the series.
The game was extraordinary as it further developed elements from the equally impressive “Deus Ex: Human Revolution,” but unfortunately, it seemed to be released prematurely, leaving the conclusion feeling more like a cliffhanger than a satisfying ending.
It seems that a sequel from this franchise hasn’t been released in over ten years, which is unfortunate given how well-developed its protagonist, Adam Jensen, is and how immersive the world of Deus Ex is compared to others like Cyberpunk 2077. Despite the fact that a sequel is typically what one expects from a series, it appears that’s not the case here.
In these games, the playstyle is an innovative blend of third-person and first-person perspectives, complemented by high-tech upgrades that allow for devastating final attacks. What truly stands out is the challenge of devising strategies for every situation you encounter.
The popularity of Cyberpunk 2077 demonstrates that there’s a lot of curiosity about such worlds. With its story yet to be fully resolved, few games warrant either a complete remake or a fitting conclusion more than Deus Ex: Mankind Divided.
6 Chrono Cross/Trigger
It’s Time
It might be wise for Square Enix, who are currently engrossed in remaking Final Fantasy titles, to revisit a series they once abandoned when it was at its peak of popularity – specifically, Chrono Cross or Trigger. These games hold a special place in the hearts of many Square Enix fans and offer a distinct flavor compared to other Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs).
The mechanism that alters both time and perspective is simply stunning, and I can’t wait to experience it with contemporary visuals. The unique artistic style of those games really enhanced the joy of discovering the world.
It was enjoyable discovering the numerous characters presented, and their unique abilities made for exciting battles. It’s clear that such a diverse cast could effectively fit into modern Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs).
Picture an engaging Action Role-Playing Game inspired by the Chrono series, but with a more dynamic and immediate feel. This could potentially leverage the gameplay mechanics of ‘Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth’ or perhaps resemble the upcoming title, ‘Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’.
The narrative offers countless opportunities for various games, given its rich tapestry of thousands of years of history, mystery, and unexplored details that could be further developed in potential follow-ups.
It’s astonishing that the series got overlooked, but there’s still time. As Square Enix plans games based on their past, they should not forget their most distinctive creation.
5 Max Payne
Unapologetically Gritty
In the first decade of the 21st century, Max Payne was a prominent figure among video game characters. After its second release, there was no new installment until 2012, at which point it reemerged and returned to action that same year.
This game sequence is undeniably legendary; it pioneered the concept of bullet time gameplay, modeled after The Matrix films, and this innovation had an immense impact on gaming, just as the movies revolutionized cinema.
As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but express my awe for the mesmerizing slow-motion dives and gunplay, which were unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in gaming. The storyline, deeply dark and mature, added an enigmatic layer that made this game stand out like no other. Frankly, it was such a unique masterpiece that it deserved far more than just a trilogy.
After the success of the second game, the Max Payne series temporarily halted production as Rockstar assumed control over Max Payne 3 from Remedy Entertainment.
The third installment of Max Payne, while still impressive, noticeably veered away from the eccentric aspects that defined the mood in the initial two games.
Additionally, the recent demise of James McCaffrey, known for portraying Max Payne in all three games, has left many dedicated fans struggling to imagine a sequel without him.
Regardless of the current focus on GTA VI by Rockstar, it seems wise to consider returning the rights for Max Payne to Remedy Entertainment. This team appears eager to delve back into the Max Payne universe, having essentially incorporated elements of it into Alan Wake 2, even if not in name.
In that game, James McCaffrey played the role of FBI agent Alex Casey, who bore a resemblance to Sam Lake, the game’s creator, and also the original Max Payne character.
The gameplay from Max Payne 3 holds up incredibly well today, and you could dive into the weirder aspects of the universe by mixing it into the other Remedy-verse games too, making for an interesting medley of a game.
In a fresh take, remake, or innovative mix, Max Payne stood out as the most stylish video game character during the early 2000s, and the gameplay and mood from that era could effectively be adapted to create a contemporary-style shooter game.
4 Dishonored
Arkane Has An Ace in The Hole
Since 2016, the game titled Dishonored seems to have taken a break from the gaming scene, and during this period, Arkane Studios’ once-respected status in the industry appears to have slipped gradually lower on the pecking order.
Following the disappointments with Redfall and Deathloop, both falling short of expectations, unfortunately, the studio behind Dishonored 1 and 2, Arkane Austin, was forced to close its doors due to a lack of positive response.
In spite of this, there are numerous whispers suggesting that Dishonored 3 could indeed be underway and may spring a surprise launch within the upcoming months. Until we witness it ourselves, it remains to be seen if these rumors hold water. Meanwhile, let’s delve into what makes this series so exceptional.
Initially, the architectural layout in Dishonored stands almost without equal. The multi-tiered structures stretching from floor to ceiling within each mission are a sight to marvel at, and the ability to freely roam adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
In simpler terms, the blend of stealth elements with rapid, intense fights is just as impressive as many current games. It’d be fascinating to witness the updated version of that distinctive art style in modern graphical detail.
Currently, there isn’t a direct sequel to “Dishonored 3” available, but the VR game “Vampire: The Masquerade – Justice” offers an experience quite similar to what the original games provided.
3 Xenogears
Parts Incomplete
Xenogears holds a special place in my heart and played a pivotal role in sparking my interest in Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs). Its music, characters, and narrative were captivating in a unique manner that has yet to be equaled.
Originally, the game I was immersed in was slated as part 5 of a 6-part saga, and I eagerly anticipated the following and preceding installments. However, the masterminds behind it decided to move on from Square Enix and establish Monolith Soft. Instead, they reimagined the series through Xenosaga and eventually, the Xenoblade franchise, leaving my journey incomplete.
All of those games are great in their own right, but they aren’t Xenogears. They still have yet to recapture that mature tone, the realism of the characters (The anime tropes are getting old) and the shock and awe of the unfolding events.
There is also the factor of the Gears to consider. That type of mech combat has been vaguely mimicked since but never really nailed, with Xenoblade Chronicles X getting the closest.
As a passionate fan, I can’t help but express my fervent hope for Monolith Soft to revisit this extraordinary series. While Xenoblade has undeniably achieved great success, there’s an unfinished tale waiting to be told. This RPG is one of a kind, and it deserved a larger budget than what it received in the past. The planned ending was never realized, leaving us yearning for resolution.
Monolith Soft possesses both the skill and passion needed to bring this series to life again. If they revisit their original beginnings and attempt to regain the rights from Square Enix, who seem to cling to them more out of resentment than anything else, they might be able to achieve it.
2 Zone of the Enders
Konami, Do Us A Favor
It’s been quite some time since the Zone of the Enders series has seen action, given that Konami seems to have taken a step back from console gaming. Perhaps it would be beneficial for them to reconsider one of their most successful franchises.
As we eagerly await the release of the remake for Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, it’s hard not to feel a sense of longing for the unfulfilled tale of Zone of the Enders, which held so much untapped promise.
The essence of ’90s anime permeated this series fundamentally, drawing frequent comparisons to classics such as Evangelion and Akira. However, what truly set it apart was its engaging gameplay.
For the very first time, mechs exhibited an astonishing speed in battle, reminiscent less of the methodical pacing in Gundam, and more akin to the swift action scenes from Dragon Ball Z. This breathtaking spectacle of chaos served as a testament to the impressive power of contemporary gaming consoles at that point in time.
The story that took place was an engaging one too, from Leo’s initial piloting of the Jehuty mech to Dingo’s, it was like playing through a movie. While that’s commonplace these days, back then, there was nothing like it.
If Konami aims to regain prominence in the console market by moving beyond constant collections and remasters, “Zone of the Enders” could serve as an ideal starting point. There’s ample content still untouched that could fuel a sequel or even a complete overhaul re-imagining.
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1 Infamous
A Forgotten Gem
Infamous, like a phoenix, seems to have been written off, yet it holds untapped potential. Sucker Punch has recently triumphed with Ghost of Tsushima, but let us not overlook the title that initially catapulted them onto the open-world scene – Infamous.
In the initial game, Cole McGrath finds himself with unforeseen powers, thrust into a confrontation with the menacing antagonist known as Kessler.
In the next installment, you faced off against an enormous, relentless beast that was heading straight for you. The third edition introduced a fresh protagonist named Delsin, along with a brand-new narrative.
In each game, you encountered fresh and distinct elements, and the choices between right and wrong during gameplay significantly influenced not just the plot’s direction but also the evolution of your own abilities.
This situation prompted thoughtful deliberation over whom to protect, whom to let go, and whether numbers or actual lives mattered more to you.
The system was exceptionally exciting, offering significant rewards, which, combined with its engaging gameplay, created a distinctive superhero adventure that was both grim and sophisticated, yet retained all the elements the genre is renowned for.
Infamous: Second Son” was designed to be a flagship game, essentially meant to drive sales of the PS4. However, despite being decent, it didn’t achieve the level of success that was anticipated, and Sucker Punch shifted their focus towards new opportunities instead.
Currently, there’s a great deal of excitement surrounding open-world superhero games. The upcoming release of 2023’s Spider-Man 2 has been particularly successful, and more titles in this genre are on the way. However, nothing quite compares to Infamous, and that fact feels off.
As a lifelong gamer who has played countless titles over the years, I must say that this game stands out as one of the most immersive and visually stunning experiences I’ve ever had. The cinematic quality is unparalleled, transporting me into a world where I could actually live out my superhero fantasies. And what sets it apart from other games is its unique premise: becoming a superhero not by choice, but through circumstances beyond my control. This adds an element of realism and tension that makes the game truly captivating. In short, this game has given me a glimpse into a life I could never have imagined, and for that, I am forever grateful.
In contemporary gaming, a somber atmosphere could suit many top-tier games, and given the direction taken by Ghost of Tsushima, it’s not hard to imagine how well an Infamous game might thrive within today’s gaming scene.
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2024-10-08 14:10