We’ve all heard the phrase, “Good things come to those who wait.”As I count the days for the much-anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6, this saying resonates with me more than ever.
The 12-year hiatus since the launch of Grand Theft Auto V has tested the patience of fans. While Rockstar has actively supported GTA Online and released Red Dead Redemption 2 during this period, the anticipation for new entries in their flagship franchises continues to loom large.
This lengthy wait for sequels often pushes the limits of our patience, particularly concerning iconic series that shaped gaming history. Let’s explore some noteworthy games that have faced similar extended gaps between major releases.
10. Metroid Dread
19 Years Since Metroid Fusion
Despite the existence of the Metroid Prime trilogy, which expanded the franchise, these titles were treated as spin-offs rather than mainline entries. Metroid Fusion, often referred to as Metroid 4, had fans eagerly awaiting its sequel, Metroid Dread, known as Metroid 5.
Following the success of Metroid Prime, one would expect Nintendo to keep the series in the limelight. However, the company focused on remaking earlier titles, such as Metroid: Zero Mission in 2004 and Metroid: Samus Returns in 2017. Struggles like the mixed reception of Metroid: Other M and developmental challenges faced by Metroid Prime 4 contributed to the long drought of new content.
9. F-Zero 99
19 Years Since F-Zero Climax
In stark contrast to the Metroid series, F-Zero fans have been starved for content for nearly two decades. After a staggering 19-year gap, Nintendo finally released F-Zero 99 in 2023, a thrilling Battle Royale experience through Nintendo Switch Online that exceeded many expectations.
While not a traditional entry in the series, F-Zero 99 captures the essence of high-speed racing that fans adore. It retains key gameplay mechanics and visuals reminiscent of the original titles. For players seeking a more classic experience, F-Zero GX is available on Nintendo Switch Online, paving the way for a potential full-fledged sequel in the future.
8. Homeworld 3
21 Years Since Homeworld 2
Sequel delays can often stem from corporate transitions and rights ownership changes, a scenario illustrated by the saga of Homeworld. After the release of Homeworld 2 in 2003, rights issues arose when developer Relic Entertainment was acquired by THQ, while the Homeworld IP remained entangled with Sierra Entertainment and Vivendi Universal.
Although THQ secured the rights in 2007 and development rumors surfaced in the early 2010s, they faced serious financial troubles. It wasn’t until Gearbox Software acquired the Homeworld IP that development of Homeworld 3, crafted by Blackbird Interactive in 2024, finally came to fruition.
7. Kid Icarus: Uprising
21 Years Since Kid Icarus: Of Myths And Monsters
Younger generations may recognize Pit as “that angel character”from Super Smash Bros. Brawl, but it took over two decades for him to headline his own title again. Kid Icarus: Uprising debuted for the Nintendo 3DS in 2012, following the release of Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters on the Game Boy in 1991.
Uprising redefined the franchise’s gameplay, boasting modern action mechanics that diverged from its predecessors. Despite its unique control scheme on the 3DS, the game won hearts and signaled a strong demand for future sequels or ports—perhaps to the anticipated Switch 2 or via Nintendo Switch Online.
6. Baldur’s Gate 3
23 Years Since Baldur’s Gate 2
The two decades between Baldur’s Gate 2 in 2000 and Baldur’s Gate 3 in 2023 saw various spin-off titles, but no true sequels. Action RPG spin-offs like Dark Alliance appeared, but the gaming community awaited a direct continuation.
Finally, Larian Studios fulfilled this long-standing desire with Baldur’s Gate 3, delivering a full-fledged experience in 2023 that reignited excitement around the franchise, captivating both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
5. Jagged Alliance 3
24 Years Since Jagged Alliance 2
The journey of Jagged Alliance 3 has been riddled with development hurdles. Announced in 2004, the game switched through multiple development teams, with missed deadlines leading to frustration among fans.
Ultimately, Nordic Games acquired the rights amid the earlier developer’s insolvency, and in 2021, THQ Nordic revived the franchise with a full sequel developed by Haemimont Games, garnering positive reviews upon release.
4. Wasteland 2
26 Years Since Wasteland
Originating in 1988, Wasteland laid the groundwork for games like Fallout but suffered setbacks due to Electronic Arts not pursuing a sequel. As Fallout surged, Wasteland faded into obscurity until inXile Entertainment, founded by one of Interplay’s co-founders, reacquired the rights and developed Wasteland 2, releasing it in 2014—26 years after the original.
This was not the end of the franchise, as Wasteland 3 followed in 2020, demonstrating that some franchises can indeed make a resurgence after significant waits.
3. Streets of Rage 4
26 Years Since Streets of Rage 3
Although the beat ’em up genre enjoyed vast popularity, many classic franchises fell silent in the modern gaming era, with Streets of Rage being one of them. However, in 2020, publisher Dotemu revived the series through a collaboration with Sega, leading to the release of Streets of Rage 4.
This new installment not only honored its roots but revitalized the genre, paving the way for new entries in other dormant franchises, showcasing the potential of reviving beloved classics.
2. Windjammers 2
28 Years Since Windjammers
Reviving classic arcade games is one of the most exciting trends in gaming. Dotemu has led this charge with titles like Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound and Streets of Rage. Among their remarkable returns is Windjammers, the beloved arcade competition that recently saw a sequel.
Although some may argue that Windjammers 2 sticks too closely to the original’s formula, its simplicity and competitive spirit foster an engaging experience that resonates with fans, exemplifying a masterful homage to classic gaming.
1. GetsuFumaDen: Undying Moon
35 Years Since GetsuFumaDen
| Release | Feb.16, 2022 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Konami, GuruGuru |
| Console | Switch, PC, Mobile |
In a surprise move, Konami released a sequel to their 1987 action RPG, GetsuFumaDen: Undying Moon, a game that had remained a Japanese-exclusive title for decades. The gameplay offers a hack-and-slash side-scrolling experience reminiscent of classic beat ’em ups, captivating many players.
Fortunately, Undying Moon debuted in early 2022 without regional restrictions, but despite its potential, it did not garner the acclaim many had hoped for, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
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