The world of video games has a particular affinity for sequels, often viewing new installments as enhancements rather than mere repetitions of existing ideas. Nevertheless, not every sequel is met with enthusiasm, and some titles have been unjustly criticized due to preconceived notions related to their franchise. This article explores several noteworthy sequels that, despite their rocky receptions, merit another look.
Misunderstandings surrounding sequels often stem from gameplay changes that deviate from what fans originally enjoyed. Additionally, narrative directions that betray beloved characters or expected storylines can sour the reception among longtime fans. These issues contribute to a polarized view of certain sequels that may, in fact, offer rich experiences. Let’s examine ten sequels that deserve a second chance.
10 Super Mario Bros.2
Insert Obligatory Doki Doki Panic Reference Here
Super Mario Bros.2 is an enigmatic title within the franchise, introducing quirky gameplay mechanics that diverged significantly from its predecessors. Elements like vegetables as primary gameplay tools might initially deter fans expecting the traditional experience associated with the series. The game’s dreamlike setting only adds to its surreal charm, which can be misinterpreted. Despite these perceived oddities, Super Mario Bros.2 is a fantastic entry, particularly in its remastered versions on the SNES and GBA—though the GBA’s voice clips may be best avoided by some players.
9 Yoshi’s Story
A Game That Was Too Short for Its Price Tag
The Yoshi franchise evolved following the successful Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island, but the N64 installment, Yoshi’s Story, faced criticism for its reduced difficulty and brief gameplay duration. During a period when N64 titles were costly, this perceived oversight led to unfavorable reviews. However, the game’s enjoyment factor is considerable, and it can now be experienced affordably via Nintendo Switch Online’s Expansion Pass, presenting an opportunity for players to reassess it.
8 Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
The Brutal Return to Hyrule Was Too Much for Some
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link stands out as a challenging entry amid a library of typically more forgiving Nintendo titles of its era. Featuring intense dungeons and formidable bosses, the game’s difficulty level alienated some players. Furthermore, its 2D action-platforming mechanics differ from the classic exploration style found in other Zelda games, leading some fans to dismiss it altogether despite its critical role in the franchise’s timeline.
7 Chrono Cross
Good Game, Bad Sequel
Chrono Cross is often praised as a standalone title; however, when compared to its predecessor, Chrono Trigger, it faces harsh scrutiny. The game’s unsettling revelations about the original cast’s fates and a less engaging playable character roster contribute to the negative reception. While it’s essential to appreciate Chrono Cross on its own merits, the shadow of Chrono Trigger looms large, making it hard for fans to separate the two experiences effectively.
6 BioShock 2
Rapture’s Full-Price Expansion Pack
Many fans perceived BioShock 2 as merely a continuation of the first game rather than a novel experience, which has led to its dismissal as “DLC-level content.”While it may not possess the narrative depth of BioShock Infinite, BioShock 2 brings its unique strengths to the table and has enjoyed a resurgence of appreciation over the years, highlighting the importance of revisiting this entry.
5 Dark Souls II
Too Much Armor – 7/10
Dark Souls II often faces backlash for being deemed too similar to its predecessor, with many claiming it recycles ideas rather than innovating. Nonetheless, the game’s quality-of-life improvements and refined mechanics deserve recognition. Many negativity stems from it lacking the direct involvement of series creator Hidetaka Miyazaki, but evaluating Dark Souls II on its own reveals an engaging experience worth experiencing.
4 Dragon Age II
Not Enough Maps to Go Around
Dragon Age II marked a significant departure from its predecessor by focusing on urban storytelling rather than grand world-saving quests. While the character-driven narrative and gameplay improvements were commendable, the limited map variety drew considerable criticism. Despite this, the evolution of the story and gameplay mechanics laid the groundwork for future installments, which sought to address feedback from the player base.
3 Final Fantasy II
Punching Up to Get Stronger
Squaresoft’s decision to dramatically shift the gameplay model in Final Fantasy II set the stage for a polarizing reception. While its story and character development groundbreaking for the NES era, the unique leveling system, which required repetitive actions to enhance abilities, frustrated many players. The experimental format was ultimately abandoned in favor of more conventional systems in subsequent titles.
2 DOOM Eternal
The Doom With MMO Cooldowns
DOOM Eternal stands out as one of the most divisive titles, with fans split on its reimagined gameplay mechanics. The inclusion of strategic resource management and puzzle elements marked a notable departure from the original shooting formula, leading to polarized opinions. While some players embraced the tactical shift, others felt it strayed too far from the series’ roots, prompting speculation about the future trajectory of the franchise with DOOM: The Dark Ages.
1 Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
The Solid Snake Swap
Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty introduced a bold narrative twist by sidelining protagonist Solid Snake in favor of Raiden. This character switch and Raiden’s contrasting personality ignited mixed feelings among fans, as many yearned for the familiar hero they adored. Nonetheless, the game itself is a significant achievement within the series, and subsequent entries have since embraced the original characters again, allowing Raiden to carve out his own identity in spin-offs.
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