10 Overlooked Long-Lasting Video Game Franchises You Should Know

The world of video games is rich with franchises that have either stood the test of time since the 1980s or emerged more recently to make their mark. While many titles have achieved widespread recognition, numerous long-standing series remain overlooked despite their considerable quality. This article aims to highlight such franchises that truly deserve a broader fanbase, showcasing the ten most underrated long-running game franchises.

For our purposes, we will consider games that have been part of the gaming landscape for at least 15 years.

10 Sniper: Ghost Warrior

Long Live Stealth

Although the Sniper: Ghost Warrior series may not be hailed as the pinnacle of stealth games—given the mediocrity found in some entries—it does serve as a refreshing reminder of why stealth mechanics are cherished. For players who relish the thrill of taking down enemies quietly, this franchise fills a significant niche in today’s gaming landscape.

While criticisms regarding its narrative and animation quality are valid, the core experience of meticulously planning each shot and strategizing is incredibly rewarding. Even if stealth gameplay is not universally embraced, the series deserves greater recognition.

9 Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon

Ubisoft at Its Best

For fans of stealth mechanics, Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon stands out as Ubisoft’s most underrated franchise. The series is known for its well-crafted, tactical levels which encourage the use of strategy and gadgets instead of straightforward combat. Although the storylines may fall into predictable territory, the creative gameplay has consistently captivated its audience.

While the later entries have somewhat diminished my enthusiasm, Ghost Recon remains a foundational pillar in the tactical shooter genre, ensuring its legacy continues.

8 Samurai Warriors

The Glory of the Musou Genre

Despite having numerous peers, the Samurai Warriors series remains underappreciated within the gaming community. As my introduction to the musou genre, I have always found the thrill of battling legions of enemies in intricate historical settings—particularly amidst epic tales like the Romance of the Three Kingdoms—to be irresistible.

Although Koei Tecmo and Omega Force have dominated this gameplay style, I remain an advocate for these engaging titles, encouraging others to indulge in the chaos and fun they offer.

7 Ninja Gaiden

Many Decades of Magnificent Adventures

An historically significant franchise in the hack-and-slash arena, Ninja Gaiden has kept pace with gaming advancements. Unfortunately, its prominence has waned among newer generations, an oversight that diminishes its rich contribution to gaming history.

The challenging gameplay, compelling combat, and notable boss encounters have made this series a milestone for players throughout the years. Regrettably, although its reputation precedes it, many players have yet to truly embrace it.

6 Baldur’s Gate

A Role-Playing Gem Since Always

Interestingly, despite Baldur’s Gate 3 winning numerous accolades, including GOTY at TGA, the overall franchise has not garnered comparable acclaim. Fans of Larian Studios’ work anticipated such a high-caliber sequel, yet the original titles by BioWare and Black Isle Studios remain overshadowed in broader discussions.

While critical appreciation is well-deserved, the legacy of the initial games has not translated into substantial fanfare. This franchise, with its profound storytelling and intricate gameplay, truly merits increased recognition.

5.Onimusha

A Classic of Immense Influence

In discussions about melee-focused games, the Onimusha series often gets overlooked despite its massive impact. At its peak, these games were not only exceptional experiences for PlayStation 2 owners, but they also set the stage for future titles in hack-and-slash and Souls-like genres.

The innovative blend of supernatural elements with historical context remains influential, paving the way for numerous titles that followed. Onimusha’s legacy is undeniable, and I anticipate that new entries will only solidify its esteemed status in gaming history.

4 Alan Wake

The Resurrection of Psychological Thrillers

It took me years to discover Alan Wake, and I deeply regret missing its initial release. Although I was not traditionally attracted to horror games, Remedy’s cleverly designed narrative shifted my perspective on the genre entirely.

In an age dominated by action-oriented titles, Alan Wake stands out, establishing a new benchmark for psychological thrillers. Unfortunately, the sales figures for both installments do not reflect their quality, and I strongly believe that Remedy’s remarkable universe deserves more widespread appreciation.

3 Thief

The King of Stealth

Thief has consistently delivered immersive gameplay, making it evident that this series holds a special place in gaming’s heritage. The innovative designs and mechanics in titles like Thief: The Dark Project and Thief II: The Metal Age were groundbreaking at their time, offering players unique experiences that remain impressive even today.

Even though later titles may not have achieved the same acclaim, they contributed significantly to the stealth genre and inspired many modern titles. The potential for virtual reality could breathe new life into the franchise; however, widespread acknowledgment is essential for Thief to claim its rightful place among video game legends.

2 Metro

The Best Post-Apocalyptic Universe

Among the myriad of post-apocalyptic narratives, Metro stands as arguably the finest series to explore such a genre, rivaling classics like Fallout and The Last of Us. The immersive experience crafted by 4A Games intricately combines engaging storytelling, atmosphere, and gameplay, creating an unforgettable journey.

Despite receiving notable entries, the series remains comparatively unrecognized when weighed against its outstanding achievements—each installment deserving of high praise and accolades. The connection between Metro and Dmitry Glukhovsky’s novels further enriches its narrative depth, yet this partnership has not translated into the wider acclaim it so richly deserves.

1 Darksiders

One of the Greats of Hack and Slash

With Darksiders, the disparity between acclaim and popularity is glaringly evident. Widely considered one of the masters of the hack-and-slash genre, the franchise has yet to garner the recognition it deserves within both critical and player circles.

Its imaginative portrayal of Christian mythology, combined with captivating gameplay mechanics and interconnected narratives across installments, is nothing short of stellar. Although it may not have the same impact as franchises like God of War, the quality and engaging storytelling within Darksiders solidify its position among classics.

With the saga yet to reach its completion, I remain optimistic that the eventual final installment will secure Darksiders the acknowledgment it has long been due, ultimately recognizing it as a remarkable addition to the video game canon.

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