Games That Unexpectedly Sold Well

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Summary

  • Dead Island defied initial criticism and connected with players, selling over 5 million copies.
  • Assassin’s Creed had a shaky start but built a successful franchise, selling over 8 million copies.
  • Days Gone overcame troubled launch perception to become a fan-favorite with over 9 million copies sold.

Occasionally, certain games seem destined for failure from the start, facing challenges such as delayed launches, poor reviews, internal conflicts within studios, or simply arriving at the wrong moment. Yet, on rare occasions, something unusual takes place.

An unexpected game, initially deemed for the discount section, astonishingly resonates with gamers beyond expectation. These are the titles that silenced their skeptics, flipped off low presumptions, and stealthily earned a fortune by selling millions of copies.

It turns out that these games, which initially appeared as if they might face challenges or underperform, actually surpass expectations by performing significantly better than anticipated.

6. Dead Island

Over 5 Million Copies Sold

Initially, when the game Dead Island made news, it wasn’t for its gameplay but for a gripping, emotionally affecting cinematic trailer that garnered attention in 2011. However, the finished product bore little resemblance to this trailer. Critics criticized the awkward combat, inconsistent mood shifts, and numerous technical glitches. The situation was not improved by the fact that its open-world zombie chaos was launched at a time when games like Left 4 Dead and Dead Rising, which were more refined in their genres, were already present.

However surprising it may seem, amidst all the elements, Dead Island managed to resonate. Perhaps it was the shared experience of slaying zombies alongside three friends with makeshift weapons like oars and wrenches in the four-player co-op mode. Maybe it was the unique appeal of transforming a picturesque tropical resort into a gruesome battleground. Or possibly, people found an unexpected allure in its rough-around-the-edges appeal. With over 5 million copies sold, it demonstrated that even a chaotic zombie apocalypse can have an odd, captivating pull.

5. Assassin’s Creed

Over 8 Million Copies Sold

Ubisoft took a daring step by heavily investing in the development of “Assassin’s Creed,” creating a new intellectual property when many other AAA publishers opted for safer choices. However, this project was filled with internal struggles, such as changes in direction, technical problems, and intense work periods known as crunch. The game was eventually released in 2007, but the reviews were mixed. Critics praised the idea but criticized the repetitive missions and lackluster side activities, likening it to a well-marketed prototype.

Despite some skepticism, the game attracted numerous players. The idea of delving into a historically accurate open world using genetic memory was simply too captivating to pass up. Navigating Jerusalem using parkour and eliminating targets as Altaïr offered an entirely new experience that satisfied a unique craving. This initial excitement laid the groundwork for a series that has since grown to encompass more than a dozen main installments. And it all started with a game that many had predicted would fade into obscurity.

4. Days Gone

Over 9 Million Copies Sold

Prior to its debut, Days Gone seemed destined for a rocky start. A protracted development period, numerous setbacks, and the belief that it was simply another clone of the zombie open-world genre gave it a reputation as a frequent target of jokes. The initial critiques didn’t improve its standing—critics criticized it for being unoriginal, glitchy, and overly bloated.

As time went by, the community developed a unique perspective towards it. They found themselves drawn into Deacon St. John’s personal story, the intense interactions with the dynamic horde, and the eerily beautiful Oregon wilderness. Word of mouth kept its popularity going even after news headlines shifted. Now, with over 9 million copies sold, it’s a beloved game that fans continue to ask Sony to revisit. It seems that the biker apocalypse had more depth than people initially anticipated.

3. Final Fantasy 15

Over 10 Million Copies Sold

Development purgatory is barely an adequate term for it. Final Fantasy 15 endured a full decade of uncertainty, saw a change in directors, transitioned from what was Versus 13, and ultimately emerged with its story fragmented, literally so – crucial plot points were hidden behind DLC and a movie. Upon release, it seemed like a charming chaos. The setting was breathtaking, the combat thrilling, but the tale remained bewildering unless one had a Wiki tab open for reference.

As I journeyed through the world of Final Fantasy XV, the connection between Noctis and his companions felt incredibly authentic. Sharing long rides, cozy campfires under the stars, and impromptu fishing sessions breathed life into the game in a way that left an indelible mark on players. Square Enix continued to enhance this bond post-release with updates, filling in gaps and perfecting details. With over 10 million copies sold, and a new generation still moved by “Stand By Me,” it’s clear that this game has left a lasting impact.

2. Left 4 Dead

Over 13 Million Copies Sold

Valve wasn’t typically associated with fast-action cooperative shooters, and Left 4 Dead seemed like an unconventional shift in focus. Launched during a period when multiplayer was still finding its footing on consoles, its AI-controlled zombies and non-traditional campaign structure left some critics puzzled. What could possibly be appealing about repeating the same levels multiple times?

It turns out that almost everyone agrees on this: The game’s unique appeal stemmed from its sophisticated AI Director, ensuring each playthrough was distinct. Its thrilling four-player cooperative mode, the nerve-wracking rushes to the safety room, and the pandemonium of a Boomer ambush solidified its status as a timeless classic. More than 13 million copies sold later, its gameplay blueprint remains influential in modern shooters such as “Back 4 Blood” and “World War Z”.

1. Minecraft

Over 350 Million Copies Sold

Initially, with its rudimentary graphics, lack of a tutorial, and a team consisting initially of just one person, Minecraft seemed destined to fail according to conventional standards. When it first appeared on the scene, many scoffed at its blocky visuals and seemingly aimless gameplay structure. There were no missions, no narrative, no clear objective. Instead, it was primarily made up of blocks…many, many blocks.

What made it enchanting was the empty slate, where creativity could run wild. Users started constructing castles, ingenious redstone devices, and miniature replicas of actual cities. It became an educational tool for schools, teaching logic and architecture. YouTubers transformed it into a thriving empire. Mojang discovered a universal appeal – a digital LEGO set where limitless imagination could take shape. With over 350 million copies sold, and still growing, it’s impressive that this game initially seemed destined for a tech demo folder.

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2025-07-24 06:05