Every beloved game franchise has its origins in pioneering titles that transformed the gaming landscape. Iconic franchises like Grand Theft Auto (GTA), Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Final Fantasy have defined entire eras, pushing the boundaries of what video games can achieve.
However, with a plethora of sequels and spin-offs, newcomers often find it challenging to engage with these renowned series. This realization led me on a week-long journey to revisit the original games that served as the foundation for these modern franchises, assessing how they stack up today.
Nostalgia plays a peculiar role in gaming. Often, our memories are less about the games themselves and more about the feelings they evoked. Take Call of Duty, for instance. While its groundbreaking debut in 2003 established a new standard in the first-person shooter (FPS) genre, revisiting it recently made me recognize that some memories are best kept untouched.
This is where remakes and sequels come into play, allowing us to experience classic titles through a modern lens, complete with enhanced graphics and improved mechanics. Despite the influx of uninspired games in recent years, franchises remain where beginners can jump in without losing touch with what made these games great.
10.Tomb Raider
Journey Reboot
Having thoroughly enjoyed Tomb Raider: Anniversary, I decided to check out the original 1996 title. Although it’s recognized as a classic, its empty corridors, blocky graphics, jerky animations, and cumbersome controls can make it quite frustrating for contemporary gamers.
I advocate for starting with the 2013 reboot, which offers a compelling retelling of Lara Croft’s transformation into a skilled adventurer with stunning visuals and enhanced storytelling.
9.Assassin’s Creed
Legendary Relic
The original 2007 Assassin’s Creed captivated me with its parkour mechanics and bustling historical cities. However, revisiting it now reveals that it may not be the most inviting entry point. Once the novelty of parkour fades, players encounter repetitive missions and simplistic combat that becomes tedious.
If you’re new to the series, I recommend starting with Assassin’s Creed II, which improves upon nearly every aspect of its predecessor, including combat and narrative depth.
8.The Witcher
Geralt Before Greatness
With the success of novels, games, and a popular Netflix series, The Witcher stands out in the realm of dark fantasy. While the original 2000 game offered an immersive experience, it suffers from outdated visuals and clunky mechanics that mar its storytelling charm.
Newcomers should dive directly into 2015’s The Witcher 3, which significantly enhances visuals and gameplay mechanics, providing a truly immersive experience.
7.Yakuza
Skip To Zero
What began as a casual gaming experience evolved into an obsession as I played through the majority of the Yakuza series. If I had started with the original 2005 game, its awkward camera and rigid combat may have deterred me. Fortunately, I began with Yakuza Zero, a prequel that delves deep into the storyline and character development.
6.Deus Ex
Numb Beginning
Initially, I struggled to engage with the original Deus Ex due to its complexity, leading me to abandon it. However, returning to it later revealed its brilliance in mission freedom and narrative. Unfortunately, outdated graphics and combat mechanics can hinder enjoyment.
I recommend beginning with Deus Ex: Human Revolution, a prequel that maintains the depth of the original game’s story.
5.Mafia
Buried By Remake
The original Mafia is a narrative masterpiece of organized crime, boasting captivating period cars and atmosphere. However, its accessibility is hindered by outdated mechanics.
The Mafia: Definitive Edition, released in 2020, serves as an excellent entry point with modern graphics and gameplay that preserves the original’s storytelling charm.
4.Hitman: Codename 47
World’s Roughest Assassin
Although the original Hitman from 2000 has its charms, it’s plagued by frustrating AI and a lack of mid-mission saves, making it a tough experience for newcomers. Instead, the later entries like Hitman 2: Silent Assassin and the Hitman Trilogy offer far more refined gameplay that newcomers will appreciate.
3.Call Of Duty (2003)
Choose What You Want
The original Call Of Duty sparked fond memories of my childhood with its immersive WW2 narrative. However, revisiting it reveals serious shortcomings in visuals and responsiveness.
New players would benefit more from titles within the Black Ops or Modern Warfare series, which offer compelling narratives and refined gameplay.
2.Far Cry
Jungle Tour You Should Skip
The 2004 original Far Cry was groundbreaking for its time, but revisiting it now shows that it lacks the storytelling and character depth seen in subsequent titles. Clunky controls and a tedious pace make it hard to appreciate.
For a modern experience, jump straight into Far Cry 3, which showcases thrilling narratives and engaging gameplay that defines the franchise.
1.Dead Space
Great To Greater
Though I traditionally shy away from horror games, the original Dead Space (2008) captivated me with its exceptional sound design and gripping atmosphere. While it remains a solid experience, the recently released 2023 remake enhances every aspect of the original.
The updated visuals, improved controls, and additional side missions make it the ideal way to experience the spine-tingling terror of space.
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