Anticipation runs high as we approach a thrilling period. This year brings us the anticipated arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, and whispers suggest a fresh PlayStation model isn’t far behind. We might just be standing at the edge of a wave of new console game launches.
As a passionate gamer, I can hardly contain my excitement over the arrival of a brand-new video game console! This sleek piece of technology houses cutting-edge hardware that promises to elevate my beloved games to new heights. With this console, it’s like stepping into a whole new gaming universe for the very first time.
As a passionate developer, I eagerly seize the opportunity to utilize the latest hardware, refine my previous work, and experiment with fresh concepts.
Regrettably, not every concept I envisioned turns out as planned, especially with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Reflecting on this, I believe it’s essential to learn from past mistakes and consider what features and strategies to avoid when launching a new video game console.
Games launched during the early days of a console, either on its debut or within a specific timeframe afterwards, that are often considered among the poorest in terms of quality across all consoles throughout history.
10. Knack (PS4)
Here comes the money
A primary concern about Knack isn’t necessarily its poor quality as a game, but rather the limitation that it was exclusively available for the PlayStation 4.
As a gamer, I’ve noticed that many modern console launches come with updated versions of games from the previous generation. However, when it came to the PS4, Knack stood out as an exception. Instead of being compatible with existing hardware, this game was designed exclusively for the new, innovative systems.
It seems puzzling to me, as the game doesn’t stand out much; “Knack” is an average platformer, and its most commendable feature is that it doesn’t offend anyone. In no manner does this game appear to be a must-have for any system.
Not only is Astro’s Playroom more outstanding than Knack 4 on the PS4 when it comes to platforming, but it also surpasses it in every aspect. The imaginative and enjoyable experience provided by Astro’s Playroom leaves Knack 4 far behind. Interestingly, both games received sequels, with Knack 2 continuing to leave us unconvinced about the necessity of its franchise and Astro Bot being hailed as one of the best games launched in 2024.
9. Red Steel (Wii)
It failed to meet the hype
Like Knack, Red Steel looks and plays like a game that could have easily been on Nintendo GameCube.
Nevertheless, Red Steel represented an opportunity for Nintendo to demonstrate that motion controls would shape the future of gaming. The idea of firing adversaries or slicing them with a sword using precise, one-to-one motion control is a perfect union. This game generated immense anticipation.
After it dropped and landed awkwardly on its top, it was clear that the game lacked excitement, regardless of whether or not the motion controls functioned (they didn’t). The constant repetition of slashing enemies with a katana while simultaneously shooting them became monotonous, and if the overall gameplay was similarly exhausting, I lost interest. In all honesty, I had a more enjoyable experience playing Madden during the Wii’s initial release.
8. Fighter Within
KO
Won’t it be the case that the industry takes the lessons from Red Steel to heart and won’t make the launch quality of games reliant on motion control, correct?
As an avid gamer who appreciates diverse experiences, I can’t help but question the reasoning behind integrating motion controls into genres that seemingly don’t require it. Despite the fact that I’ve absorbed the same lesson as Fighter Within, my curiosity remains unshaken about this decision.
The launch of Fighter Within is shrouded in quite a bit of irony. To start, the period when it was launched, known as the Xbox One launch window, has a notorious reputation for being sparse and underwhelming.
In the second place, “Killer Instinct” is another exceptional game launched on Xbox One, superior in virtually every aspect. If you’re seeking an engaging fighting game, wouldn’t it be wiser to opt for one without motion controls?
7. Perfect Dark Zero
Rebooting
I spent my time as a manager at GameStop during the launch period of Xbox 360. It was an exhilarating phase, filled with anticipation for a brand-new console, the dawn of high-definition gaming, and increased online gameplay. We were eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new Elder Scrolls title, and Gears of War captivated us with its stunning visuals!
Prior to the release of those two titles, we had the Xbox 360 launch period, during which some successful games like “Project Gotham Racing 3” and “Dead or Alive 4” were showcased. However, there were also many disappointing games such as “Kameo: Elements of Power” and “Full Auto”. None were quite as poor, though, as “Perfect Dark Zero”.
Halo significantly improved the First-Person Shooter (FPS) genre. In contrast, Perfect Dark Zero seemed outdated upon release, with a weak narrative, sluggish gameplay mechanics, and bothersome multiplayer commentator.
6. Street Fighter: The Movie (PS1)
Continue?
“Digitized graphics from the hit movie!”
The strategy was to promote the movie, “Street Fighter: The Movie”, to avid Street Fighter fans who were already deeply invested in the game.
In the new version, the classic designs of characters like Ryu, Chun Li, Guile, and others have been replaced, opting instead for appearances that align with their fictional movie counterparts.
Most disappointingly, the gameplay falls short compared to past installments within the Street Fighter series.
OR
The gameplay is not up to par with previous versions in the Street Fighter collection.
OR
Sadly, the gameplay doesn’t measure up to earlier entries in the Street Fighter franchise.
Instead of the famous style and charm of our beloved Street Fighter characters, along with mediocre gameplay mechanics, it seems wiser to revisit the classic versions.
Don’t worry, though; the PS1 would be just fine.
5. Steel Diver (3DS)
Abort mission
The Nintendo 3DS launch line-up was bad. Like, exceptionally bad.
Sure, the idea of a dinosaur fighting game in 3D is cool, but it’s certainly no Primal Rage.
Despite being superior, that game surpasses Steel Diver, which, despite its attractive visuals, is essentially a showcase of technology rather than an impressive demonstration of it. To be fair, it does look visually appealing, but the 3D capabilities of the Nintendo 3DS turned out to be more of a novelty than a groundbreaking innovation.
At the outset, there were no big-name franchises available for the Nintendo 3DS upon its release, which was disappointing compared to the overwhelming demand for the Nintendo DS at its launch. The sensible choice seemed to be avoiding the purchase of a Nintendo 3DS.
4. 10-Yard Fight (NES)
Turnover on downs
I cherish memories of playing Starbowl Football with my father on our vintage Atari console. Although the game didn’t feature real sports teams, instead assigning them colors, it was an absolute thrill to engage in authentic football action.
With the mighty NES at our disposal, you’d expect an outstanding football game to emerge. However, what we received was a simplified, flashy version of football that falls short in comparison to what was previously available.
10-Yard Fight appears more akin to an arcade game, engineered to consume your coins rather than being a typical home console experience.
Don’t worry, though; Tecmo Bowl would be released later that decade.
3. Universal Studios Theme Parks Adventure
Should have vacationed elsewhere
The launch period for the Nintendo GameCube was quite intriguing. It created quite a stir when it wasn’t accompanied by a popular Super Mario game at launch, and the reception towards Luigi’s Mansion was not particularly enthusiastic, further adding to the controversy.
Rest assured, help is on its way by December. Just to clarify, I’m referring to the video game “Super Smash Bros. Melee”, not the “Universal Studios Theme Parks Adventure”.
As a gamer, I found this game disappointing. It aimed to replicate the enchantment of Universal Studios theme parks, but instead, it got trapped in dull mini-games that just didn’t do the trick. Frankly, there wasn’t much substance to keep me engaged. There were definitely other, more enjoyable games out there for kids, and adults were already immersed in titles like Super Smash or Rogue Squadron.
2. Michael Jackson: The Experience (PS Vita)
Are you okay?
2010 saw the arrival of Michael Jackson: The Experience, a game that perfectly embodied the trends of its era, specifically motion control gaming. This title served as an engaging companion to Just Dance, offering players the unique opportunity to dance along to some of Michael Jackson’s most iconic tunes.
Despite its positive aspects, it’s worth noting that the PS Vita doesn’t have motion control features. With the original console version receiving average reviews, some users have expressed doubts about the necessity of a PS Vita adaptation.
On Sony’s Vita platform, there seemed little purpose for “Michael Jackson: The Experience”. It missed out on leveraging the unique capabilities of the handheld system, neglecting to utilize its superior graphics potential. Consequently, it felt more like an insignificant addition rather than a standout title, ultimately blending into the background amidst other releases.
Then again, that was par for the course for most Vita games.
1. TNN Motorsports Hardcore Heat
Off-road
As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but notice that racing games always seem to be the ideal choice when it comes to launching new consoles. It appears to be a recurring pattern across the video game industry.
The “TNN Motorsports Hardcore Heat” is a challenging off-road racing game designed for the Sega Dreamcast, facing stiff competition from the water-based racing game known as “Hydro Thunder”.
As a gamer, I must confess that while Hardcore Heat promised a lot, it just couldn’t handle the pressure for me. The controls during its Japanese debut were a bit wonky, but they got fixed in time for the 9/9/99 North American release. However, even with these improvements, I found the gameplay riddled with issues and the selection of tracks and cars rather limited. Frankly, there’s not enough here to make me want to invest my gaming hours into it.
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2025-02-01 03:10