Games That Came With Better Demos

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Games That Came With Better Demos

Key Takeaways

  • Game demos were once packed with other titles, offering players a taste of what awaited.
  • Demos allowed players to experience upcoming games or underappreciated gems before release.
  • Demo discs were significant sources of excitement during the rise of digital distribution.

As a veteran gamer, I can’t help but reminisce about the good old days when game demos were a treasure trove of surprises. These little previews not only whetted our appetite for upcoming games but also occasionally served as a gateway to other exciting titles we might have overlooked.

Demo discs for video games arrived in various shapes and sizes, sometimes included alongside magazines such as PlayStation Underground or the Official Xbox Magazine. Alternatively, they were offered exclusively in-store, making trips to places like Pizza Hut in the 1990s an exciting experience, as they provided demos of popular titles like Metal Gear Solid and Crash Team Racing. Another method of demo distribution that added to the excitement was when it came bundled with another game.

In the 1990s and 2000s, developers eagerly provided comprehensive previews of their upcoming games through demo discs, either bundling them with highly anticipated titles or releasing demos for games within the same genre. These demos served as a sneak peek into the future offerings. Today, with digital distribution on the rise, developers can instantly share a piece of the game on online storefronts and effectively conclude their work. However, during the fifth and sixth console generations, demo discs were invaluable, offering players an early glimpse at some of the industry’s most iconic games.

5 Brave Fencer Musashi (PlayStation 1998 Collector’s CD Vol. 2)

Stylish Action RPG Showcased Impressive Final Fantasy 8 Demo

Hailing from the turbulent era of Japan known as Sengoku, and inspired by tales about a swordsman named Miyamoto Musashi, this captivating action RPG is often overlooked as one of the PS1’s hidden treasures. Known as Brave Fencer Musashi, it offered a fun-filled adventure, but what truly made it shine was that it came bundled with the Squaresoft on PlayStation 1998 Collector’s CD Vol. 2. The standout feature of this collection was a sneak peek at an upcoming game: Final Fantasy 8.

One year before its release, taking another peek at the upcoming installment of the widely acclaimed JRPG series, Final Fantasy 8, was quite delightful. The preview concentrated on the escape from Dollet sequence found in the final game, offering unique music and intensifying anticipation to an almost uncontainable level.

4 God Of War: Ascension (The Last Of Us)

The Debut Of The Last Of Us

In an unusual turn for Kratos’ narrative, as the God of War trilogy had concluded, leaving his future ambiguous, Sony Santa Monica decided to delve into Kratos’ past with the release of God of War: Ascension. This game served as a prequel, revealing Kratos’ origins and shedding light on his journey towards vengeance in the original God of War. Overall, God of War: Ascension offered an engaging experience that illuminated the dramatic beginnings of Kratos and his quest for retribution.

In the fitting turn of events, the proprietors of Ascension were privy to the launch of another remarkable Sony franchise. They could leverage a voucher provided to download a demo for The Last of Us, which introduced Joel, Ellie, and Tess as they navigated through a decaying structure. This demo served as a sneak peek into what would eventually become this exceptional game, showcasing the intricate game design, character development, and narrative that the full game would be renowned for.

3 Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (Dino Crisis)

Jill Valentine’s Escape From Raccoon City Came With Dino Crisis Demo

1999 saw the creation of Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, initially conceived as a side story that eventually transformed into Jill Valentine’s harrowing tale of escape from a decaying Raccoon City. What made this game truly exciting was the inclusion of a demo for another Capcom survival horror franchise – Dino Crisis – tucked within its case.

In a nutshell, a portion of the game was presented, demonstrating the exhilarating nature of this daring survival horror title. Set on an island research facility teeming with ferocious dinosaurs and peril lurking at every turn, games like Dino Crisis and Resident Evil 3 had a strong bond in 1999. They not only offered each other demos but also incorporated unique elements: Nemesis showcased an alternate outfit for Jill modeled after Regina’s costume from the game.

2 Tobal No. 1 (Final Fantasy 7)

Classic PS1 Fighting Game Came With Demo For Iconic JRPG

  • Platform: PS1
  • Developer: DreamFactory
  • Release Date: October 31, 1996

Among the overlooked fighting games on the PlayStation 1, Tobal No. 1 stood out, sharing the stage with innovators like Virtua Fighter and Tekken in the realm of 3D fighters. Its fluid, engaging combat sequences were a joy to experience, and it paved the way for a sequel in 1997, although that never left Japan’s shores. Hidden within Tobal No. 1 was a demo for another game slated for release in 1997 – a demo of Final Fantasy 7, one of the most coveted trial discs on the PlayStation 1.

In this demo for “Final Fantasy 7,” you’ll find the initial scene where Avalanche attacks Shinra’s Mako Reactor in Sector 1. This demo also includes a special text introduction to set the context. Unlike the final version, the playable party in this demo consists of Cloud, Aeris, and Barret. By 1996, the complete “Final Fantasy 7” was yet to be released, but this demo certainly helped build the global anticipation that would eventually make this classic game famous.

1 Zone Of The Enders (Metal Gear Solid 2)

The Next Chapter Of Metal Gear Was Packed With Kojima-Produced Mech Game

Originally designed for the Dreamcast, the game titled “Zone of the Enders” was created by Hideo Kojima, renowned for his cinematic storytelling and captivating characters in the Metal Gear series. This engaging hack-and-slash action game emphasized mech combat and a deep, intricate narrative. However, what has lingered most in the minds of many is that it came packaged with a demo for the eagerly awaited “Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty”.

Back in 2001, the trial version of the game “Sons of Liberty” showcased an exceptional part – from the Tank Hangar opening to the boss fight against Olga Gurlukovich. This demo highlighted the game’s impressive attention to physics, compelling storytelling, and stealth elements, making it a must-have for PS2 owners. Its release gave us a sneak peek into Kojima’s craftsmanship, which helped make “Sons of Liberty” one of the most iconic games on that console.

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2024-09-19 08:34