In the dynamic world of gaming, certain stories or genres inevitably lose their momentum, sometimes concluding dramatically or fading into obscurity. Various factors contribute to the untimely cessation of a franchise, from disappointing sales figures to developers feeling they have fully explored a concept.
Throughout gaming history, numerous series have appeared to reach their final chapter. Nevertheless, the industry has witnessed a surprising revival of some of these long-dormant franchises. In this article, we explore several series that many believe are unlikely to see new entries.
10 Syphon Filters
Do You Remember Gabe Logan?
The Syphon Filter series once captivated gamers with its unique take on espionage, reminiscent of a James Bond narrative. Unlike the more methodical Metal Gear and Splinter Cell titles, Syphon Filter emphasized action-packed gameplay filled with gadgets. However, as the 2000s progressed, the franchise struggled to keep up with its evolving audience, ultimately going silent after its last installment in 2007.
Nearly two decades have passed without new content for this honorably dormant IP. Although Sony still owns the rights, the third-person shooter genre has significantly shifted. Speculations about revivals, such as the upcoming 007: First Light, may rekindle interest, yet optimism remains low.
9 Tenchu
The Stealth Ninja Icon
Tenchu has long held a special place in my heart and is one of the few stealth franchises that has tragically been inactive since 2009. Originally developed by FromSoftware, the series offered a gripping view into the lives of stealthy assassins, with gameplay that far exceeded many competitors. Gimmicks like poisoned rice for manipulation and stealthy rooftop eliminations struck a unique balance between realism and intrigue.
Though the first two installments are considered classics, the franchise has faltered. Calls for a resurgence persist, particularly after the spiritual reimagining seen in Sekiro. Fans still hope for a revival that highlights the rich world and characters like Rikimaru.
8 Resistance
A Tale Without an Ending
The Resistance series presented an engaging first-person shooter experience during the PS3 era, balancing dramatic human versus alien conflicts with exceptional production values. Despite releasing three games, the franchise never achieved widespread acclaim, yet it left gamers hanging with an unsettling cliffhanger.
Now that Insomniac Games has shifted to the immensely successful Spider-Man franchise, hopes for the continuation of Resistance dwindle. Unless a significant creative shift occurs after their current projects, the likelihood of Resistance 4 remains very slim. While concepts like a reboot or VR adaptation are exciting possibilities, the probabilities appear bleak.
7 Deus Ex
A Favorite Left In the Dust
The Deus Ex franchise soared with titles like Deus Ex: Human Revolution. Unfortunately, the series suffered from an unfinished feeling following Deus Ex: Mankind Divided. With its gripping narrative surrounding Adam Jensen, fans are left disheartened, lingering without closure for nearly a decade.
While remastering classic titles might generate interest, enthusiasm for the franchise has waned significantly. Attempting to resurrect the story in the shadow of Cyberpunk 2077 may be challenging, especially considering the current gaming landscape and the diminishing whispers of new developments.
6 Prototype
The Terror of the City
Prototype emerged as a violent yet entertaining underdog during the late 2000s, allowing players to unleash chaotic superhero or villain experiences. However, its sequel stumbled with a failed narrative focus, ultimately diminishing interest in the franchise.
The potential for a new entry today poses its own challenges amid an increasingly sensitive cultural landscape regarding violence in gaming. Although the lore and backstory, particularly concerning the virus, remain intriguing, the chance of seeing another installment remains uncertain.
5 F. E.A. R
A True Original
F. E.A. R represented a unique blend within the first-person shooter genre, marrying intense shooting mechanics with horror elements, driven by the unforgettable antagonist, Alma. Despite its originality, the series has waned since attempts to shift towards online gameplay, resulting in a loss of dedicated fans.
The niche appeal has rendered further developments unlikely. With the third entry seemingly marking the end of a compelling narrative, many wonder if there might still be unexplored lore within its chilling story.
4 Legacy of Kain
The Unfinished Battle
As a prominent franchise of the 90s, Legacy of Kain boasted compelling narratives and strong characters, peaking with Soul Reaver 2. Yet, since the less-favorable reception of later titles and a failed multiplayer experience, the series has grown silent, save for recent remasters of Soul Reaver 1 and 2.
While there have been tantalizing hints about potential remakes or revivals, the original creators have provided little assurance for dedicated fans. It has been almost two decades since the last entry, leaving only a faint hope for the storyline’s continuation.
3 Half-Life
The Myth is Dead
The quest for Half-Life 3 has become a running joke within the gaming community, epitomizing unfulfilled desire. Despite the compelling narratives established in earlier installments and the promising comeback seen in Half-Life: Alyx, fans feel more adrift than ever with unanswered questions and aging expectations.
Valve’s indifference over this beloved franchise, paired with Steam’s lucrative success, emphasizes a fading interest in developing new content. Lamentably, the chances of revisiting the Half-Life universe seem exponentially low.
2 Infamous
Cole Deserves More
Infamous was once heralded as one of the premier franchises for the PS3, with Cole MacGrath epitomizing the platform’s youthful identity. However, since the release of Infamous: Second Son, attention has shifted to the phenomenally successful Ghost of Tsushima series, leading to the noticeable absence of new entries.
Despite a ripe environment for the franchise’s resurgence amidst evolving graphics and gameplay advancements, the fanbase’s limited size poses significant hurdles. A return to the rich universe of Infamous seems less likely, especially considering recent market trends and player interests.
1 Metal Gear Solid
Snake Is Dead
Metal Gear Solid stands as one of gaming’s most iconic franchises, largely shaped by Hideo Kojima’s creative vision, which sadly ended in 2015. Although speculation surrounds potential remakes and adaptations, the series feels dormant, and the narratives of both Solid Snake and Big Boss have seemingly reached a natural conclusion.
While opportunities for reboots or new character introductions exist, the likelihood of successfully launching a new title without the franchise’s original mastermind appears grim. Although the Metal Gear name still carries weight, the necessary creative direction seems to be lacking within the current development team.
Leave a Reply