The video game industry is filled with series that, despite their initial impact, have faded into obscurity. Here, we delve into 10 dormant franchises that are ripe for revival, exploring what made them special and why their return would be a welcome addition to modern gaming.
From the ambitious sci-fi of Advent Rising to the unique party brawler antics of Power Stone, each series on this list offers something distinct that could enrich the current gaming scene. Whether through innovative gameplay mechanics, deep narratives, or simply the lack of similar experiences today, these franchises have a place in the hearts of both old and new gamers alike.
About the Forgotten Gems
This list is not just a nostalgic trip but an examination of what each series could bring back to the table. Uncharted's cinematic flair, Shadow Hearts' dark JRPG depth, and Tenchu: Stealth Assassins' precise stealth gameplay are just a few examples of the diversity and richness these series embodied.
Developers and publishers often seek new IPs or sequels to established hits, overlooking the potential of reviving beloved but dormant franchises. The current gaming landscape, with its advancements in technology and shifting player preferences, presents a prime opportunity for these series to flourish in ways they might not have been able to in their original incarnations.
The Series That Never Got Started - Advent Rising
Advent Rising was touted as the "Halo Killer" with its grand sci-fi narrative and innovative gameplay. Starring Gideon, the game combined elements of Star Wars and Halo in a way that was uniquely its own, offering a depth of gameplay that rivaled Mass Effect before the series' dominance. Its cliffhanger ending, however, was never resolved, leaving a gaping hole for fans.
"It's a series that never really got going, and I could never figure out why, as it was one of the most fun games on the Xbox and really should've been the Halo Killer, or at least competitor."
The player experience in Advent Rising was defined by its fast-paced action and deep character customization, elements that, if updated, could compete favorably with modern sci-fi epics. Its failure to spawn a sequel or revival is a missed opportunity, especially considering the dearth of single-player, story-driven sci-fi games in recent years.
We Need More - Uncharted
Uncharted, with its last release in 2016, has left a significant gap in the action-adventure genre. Known for its cinematic experience, engaging characters, and thrilling set pieces, the series' absence is deeply felt, especially with the success of The Last of Us series.
"Nathan Drake is still alive, and Nolan North is still working, so for this series to be on the back burner as long as it's been is somewhat baffling."
A new Uncharted game could leverage current technologies to enhance its signature blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and high-octane action, potentially incorporating more dynamic environments and advanced character interactions. The series' Metascore of 93 and the community's enduring love for Nathan Drake underscore the demand for its return.
The Soul of the Late 2000s - Army of Two
Army of Two embodied the spirit of over-the-top, co-op focused gameplay that has seen a resurgence in popularity with titles like A Way Out. Its "bro-violence" charm, while potentially controversial by today's standards, offered a unique, lighthearted take on the third-person shooter genre.
"Who cares? This series still deserves a comeback."
A reboot could refine this concept, balancing its humorous, action-packed gameplay with more nuanced storytelling and character development, appealing to both nostalgic fans and new players seeking cooperative experiences.
The Darkness of the JRPG World - Shadow Hearts
Shadow Hearts, with its dark, mature themes and unsettling horror elements, stands out in the JRPG genre. In an era seeing a resurgence of interest in JRPGs, a new Shadow Hearts could capitalize on this trend, offering a refreshing contrast to more traditional, lighter-hearted fare.
"I haven't seen anything like Shadow Hearts since it was released."
Modern gaming technologies could enhance the series' narrative depth and visual horror elements, making for a compelling experience that appeals to fans of psychological thrillers and dark fantasy.
A Great Idea with Terrible Execution - Too Human
Too Human, developed by Silicon Knights, had an intriguing Cyberpunk meets Norse mythology premise but was marred by poor execution. A reboot, learning from the mistakes of the past, could transform this concept into a futuristic, action-packed adventure akin to God of War but with a sci-fi twist.
"Someone should rescue it, because Cyberpunk Nordic gods is a darn cool premise that has a lot more to give than their first effort would suggest."
With improved combat mechanics and a more refined narrative, Too Human could find the success it originally sought, catering to fans of both sci-fi and mythology-infused gaming experiences.
Tenchu: Stealth Assassins - The Original Ninja
Tenchu: Stealth Assassins, a pioneer in stealth gameplay, offered a unique ninja experience that has been somewhat replicated but never fully replaced. Its emphasis on strategy over brute force could be revitalized with modern stealth mechanics, potentially influencing a new generation of stealth games.
"It's a game that emphasizes being stealthy, because group combat would mean a quick end."
A revival could blend the original's challenging stealth with contemporary graphics and gameplay innovations, filling a niche for players seeking more methodical, less action-oriented stealth experiences, much like Ghost of Tsushima but with a more traditional ninja focus.
A Lost Art - Power Stone
Power Stone, described as a "party brawler," carved out a unique space in the fighting genre with its chaotic, anime-inspired gameplay and interactive environments. The author's enthusiasm captures its enduring appeal.
"They really have their own genre. It's like a party brawler, and a fantastic one at that."
A modern interpretation could leverage online multiplayer capabilities and diverse character rosters, making it a standout title in today's gaming landscape.
By updating its visuals and possibly expanding its character roster and stages, Power Stone could attract both veterans of the Dreamcast era and newcomers looking for a fresh, less serious fighting game experience.
What This Means for Players
The revival of these series would not only satisfy long-awaited fan demands but also bring diversity to the current market. Each franchise offers a unique selling point: Advent Rising's sci-fi depth, Uncharted's cinematic adventure, Shadow Hearts' dark JRPG elements, and so on. Their return would cater to a broad range of gaming preferences, from those seeking deep narratives to players looking for innovative gameplay mechanics.
Moreover, in an industry where sequels and reboots are commonplace, reviving these dormant franchises with a modern twist could set a precedent for how to successfully bring back beloved but forgotten IPs, potentially uncovering new favorites among both old and new gamers.
Closing Thoughts
As the gaming world continues to evolve, the nostalgia for these series remains strong. With the right approach, each could make a impactful comeback, enriching the gaming landscape with their unique blend of gameplay and narrative. For now, fans can only hope that developers and publishers will recognize the potential in reviving these dormant but beloved franchises.
Keep an eye on the gaming news front for any whispers of these series' potential returns. Until then, the wait continues for the fans of these iconic, yet dormant, video game franchises.
