The anticipation surrounding video game sequels can often reach unprecedented levels, but not every highly-awaited title manages to meet the expectations set by its predecessors. A prime example of this phenomenon is Grand Theft Auto VI, arguably one of the most anticipated games in history. With the illustrious track record of Rockstar Games, one would expect them to deliver a product that lives up to the fanfare; however, this is often the exception rather than the rule.
This situation isn’t always due to the development team’s shortcomings; instead, it reflects the inherent challenges of the modern gaming hype cycle. Many games struggle to fulfill the towering expectations placed upon them, especially after enduring lengthy periods in development hell. Thankfully, there are instances where the stars align, and a sequel emerges that satisfies eager fans.
Tom Petty famously stated, “Waiting is the hardest part, ” and for devoted gamers, this couldn’t ring truer regarding these long-awaited sequels. The delays have been frustrating, but the payoff has proven to be worthwhile.
10 Hollow Knight: Silksong
Put Away Those Clownsuits
It’s fitting to start with Hollow Knight: Silksong, which has been a source of eager anticipation among fans. The stretch of time seemingly dragged on through numerous Nintendo Direct presentations and Geoff Keighley events, all filled with excitement yet lacking a Silksong reveal. In retrospect, we can now chuckle at those moments of impatience, as Silksong has emerged as one of the most acclaimed titles of the year, fulfilling all the hopes we had for a Hollow Knight sequel.
Are there moments in the game that seem a tad unfair? Absolutely! But perhaps that’s just a testament to our mastery of the original Hollow Knight—daring a challenge would seem only appropriate.
9 Grand Theft Auto V
I Guess It Was The Weather
The interval between GTA IV and GTA V wasn’t nearly as torturous as the current wait for GTA VI, a delay compounded by numerous re-releases of GTA V. Despite my fondness for GTA IV, there was a certain je ne sais quoi missing that characterized the beloved titles of the PS2 age.
Though it took five years to transition back to Los Santos, which felt much longer due to various delays, the experience proved immensely rewarding. GTA V stands as Rockstar’s crowning achievement, showcasing unparalleled open-world gameplay and storytelling prowess.
8 Metroid Dread
Metroid 5
While Metroid Prime attempted to revitalize the franchise, focusing on first-person gameplay, traditional side-scrolling adventures had been absent since Metroid Fusion. The resurgence of the series came in 2021 with Metroid Dread, providing a double treat: it not only resumed the mainline continuity as Metroid 5 but also revitalized the long-lost project originally envisioned nearly twenty years earlier.
Despite a surge of Metroidvania titles flooding the market, Dread captures the essence of the franchise, yielding an authentic and engaging Metroid experience that resonates with fans old and new.
7 Pikmin 4
I Would Die For Oatchi
The decade-long wait for Pikmin 4 following the release of Pikmin 3 was hard to fathom. Although Pikmin 3 followed the well-loved Pikmin 2, it didn’t quite resonate with audiences the same way. In stark contrast, Pikmin 4 succeeds tremendously, feeling more like a spiritual successor to its predecessor than a direct continuation of Pikmin 3.
With innovative new concepts interwoven seamlessly, Oatchi emerges as a delightful addition, ensuring that the gameplay finely balances challenge and enjoyment. In fact, Pikmin 4 stands as the pinnacle of the series thus far.
6 StarCraft II
It’s About Time
Critics of StarCraft II may argue it doesn’t compare favorably to its predecessor, Brood War. As a longtime fan of earlier titles, I understand this sentiment, yet we must appreciate both for their substantial contributions to the RTS genre. Upon its release, StarCraft II met all my expectations: engaging multiplayer, an enthralling narrative, and impressive mod support ignited many sleepless nights experimenting with new mods alongside friends.
The decision to split the game into three distinct installments was a unique strategy, yet ultimately StarCraft II proved to be more than just worth the wait.
5 Alan Wake 2
Interestingly, I played through the original Alan Wake before diving into Twin Peaks. The anticipation for Alan Wake 2 wasn’t nearly as excruciating as others, spanning only 13 years. Nonetheless, it marks the return of a beloved title from the Xbox 360 era, particularly rewarding for fans keenly aware of the storyline’s unresolved threads.
Remedy’s innovative execution, with an increased focus on action and atmospheric storytelling, offers a captivating and immersive experience while maintaining its roots.
4 Fallout 3
War Never Changes
The debate surrounding whether Fallout 3 should be regarded as a true sequel to the original titles continues to spark discussions among fans. While it boasts a numerical designation in the long-standing RPG franchise, it diverges significantly from the characteristic style of earlier entries. Its structure aligns more closely with classic Bethesda open-world RPGs.
Despite these differences, Fallout 3 retains the essential spirit, vivid environments, and branching narratives that defined its predecessors. Celebrating the existence of Fallout 3 is far more significant than nitpicking semantics, as it continues to be a remarkable game that has aged gracefully over the years. While it may not hold the same affection as New Vegas or achieve the commercial success of Fallout 4, its brilliance is unquestionable. A modern remake would truly elevate its legacy.
3 Doom (2016)
Rip And Tear
Let’s delve into the nuances of classification: some consider the 2016 Doom as merely a reboot rather than a true sequel. However, it undeniably qualifies as a long-awaited title that lingered in developmental limbo for so long that many doubted its eventual release.
Upon its arrival, it was a glorious return to the franchise’s roots and a revival of the first-person shooter genre. Not every title needs grand narratives or unique gameplay mechanics—sometimes, what players crave is high-octane action, exhilarating combat, and outrageous weaponry, all of which Doom delivers in abundance.
2 STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Welcome To The Zone
STALKER 2 has seen its fair share of developmental hurdles, most prominently linked to external circumstances impacting its home developer, GSC Game World, especially amidst the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The journey hasn’t been straightforward; following its announcement in 2010, the game faced numerous challenges that ultimately led to a cancellation in 2012. However, revitalization efforts culminated in a thrilling E3 reveal in 2021, paving the way for its anticipated 2024 release.
Though not flawless, the experience is highly enjoyable, and the continual updates from GSC Game World suggest that improvements are always on the horizon. We eagerly hope this success prevents any future lengthy waits for additional content from the STALKER universe.
1 Baldur’s Gate 3
An All-Time Great
The original Baldur’s Gate games, released in 1998 and 2000, are frequently hailed as monumental achievements in RPG gaming. Following a long hiatus, Baldur’s Gate III was initially drummed up in 2002 but faced cancellation the following year due to financial turmoil surrounding Black Isle Studios. For years, fans were left reminiscing about 2004’s Dark Alliance 2, with the franchise seemingly in limbo.
After overcoming licensing hurdles with Dungeons & Dragons, Larian Studios’ leadership secured approval for a fresh entry. Their past success with Divinity: Original Sin II played a pivotal role in gaining that green light.
The result is nothing short of phenomenal: Baldur’s Gate 3 has achieved critical acclaim, consistently ranking among the highest-rated games of all time and winning numerous Game of the Year accolades in 2023.
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