In the early 2010s, the gaming industry saw a remarkable surge in the production of prequels. One standout example was “Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, ”which cleverly embraced this growing trend. While critiques exist that prequels can sometimes lack the creative depth of sequels, I prefer to adopt a more positive outlook.
The most engaging prequels are those that expand upon previously unexplored aspects of a game’s narrative, enriching stories or character arcs that had previously remained unclear. This can include pivotal events only subtly referenced in dialogue or character backgrounds that had been left ambiguous.
These prequels not only enhance our understanding of the overarching story but also stand out as fun, engaging experiences in their own right. Personally, I eagerly await the development of prequels focused on some of my favorite games.
9 Star Fox 64
The Doomed Voyage of James McCloud
The backstory presented at the beginning of “Star Fox 64″introduces us to Andross, the villain, and his banishment from Corneria, leading to his resurgence on Venom. It also features the original Star Fox team, including Fox McCloud’s father, James, alongside Peppy Hare and Pigma Dengar. Pigma’s betrayal and James’ subsequent disappearance leave many questions unanswered.
Despite the significant lore established, “Star Fox Zero”failed to answer many lingering questions about James and the original team’s exploits. I would genuinely welcome a new title focused on these characters, offering fresh gameplay perspectives and a deeper look at the Lylat System prior to the Venomian assault.
My interest partly stems from fan creations such as “A Fox in Space, ”which presents a gritty version of James McCloud. While a commercial prequel might not adopt that style, it’s a thrilling idea I can envision.
8 Alan Wake
Tor and Odin’s Excellent Adventure
In the original “Alan Wake, ”the Dark Presence continuously mocks Alan, asserting its ancient nature and its penchant for finding new hosts—usually artists—like Alan, Thomas Zane, and the Anderson Brothers. Among these, the story of the Anderson Brothers piques my interest the most.
References from both “Alan Wake”and its sequel reveal that the brothers descended from a lineage of seers, capable of perceiving hidden supernatural elements. As members of the Old Gods of Asgard, they famously engaged with the Dark Presence, and it was during these encounters that Odin suffered significant injuries.
Imagine a high-energy prequel where we take control of the Andersons as they battle the Dark Presence while rocking out to exhilarating guitar riffs. This would not only be a captivating story but also a fantastic musical experience.
7 Final Fantasy X
Braska, Jecht, and Auron’s Pilgrimage
Throughout “Final Fantasy X, ”Yuna’s father, High Summoner Braska, and his guardian Jecht dominate conversations, creating a desire among players to witness their epic pilgrimage firsthand. Currently, all we have are tales and anecdotes relayed through Auron.
Even with the knowledge of how their journey concludes, many fans share a longing to experience their adventure directly. A prequel could delve into their road trip, showcasing the trio’s dynamic in a meaningful way and potentially presenting a fresh visual experience of Spira through modern technology.
6 Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Boss and the Cobras
The iconic title of “Greatest Soldier in the World” once belonged to The Boss, Naked Snake’s mentor in “Metal Gear Solid 3.”While the game explores Naked Snake’s narrative after killing The Boss, it leaves a vast gap in understanding her and the Cobra Unit members.
Curious to learn more about the Cobras—established as super soldiers funded by the Philosophers during World War II—I can’t help but wish for a game featuring these characters. Imagine engaging in stealth operations, sniping as The End, or unleashing mayhem as The Pain.
5 Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
Young Sly or Conner’s Crew
At the inception of the original “Sly Cooper, ”Sly is already a well-versed thief, having honed his skills through self-teaching and experiences. However, we rarely glimpse his formative years as he develops from a beginner into a master of theft.
A prequel could explore Sly’s early days, but this could potentially present challenges, as his initial lack of skills might detract from gameplay enjoyment. Alternatively, we might shift our focus to Sly’s father, Conner Cooper, a character with limited representation who was once a formidable thief himself.
4 Ring of Fire
The Shattering and The War
FromSoftware’s titles often encourage players to piece together lore through exploration and subtle storytelling. However, the intricate world of “Elden Ring”offers rich potential for a prequel, especially considering the storytelling contributions of George R. R.Martin.
Key moments ripe for exploration might include a look at Marika’s reign during the Golden Order or the chaotic events marking the onset of the Shattering, which sparked conflict among the demigods.
Depending on the chosen narrative focus, players could engage in political intrigue or full-scale warfare in this high-stakes environment, appealing to different gaming preferences.
3 Chiaroscuro: Expedition 33
After the Fracture, Before the Gommage
As “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33″introduces, the citizens of Lumiere have been navigating the consequences of the Fracture for decades. However, earlier expeditions like Expedition Zero sought to reconnect with their dislocated populace and the continent’s other inhabitants.
With the impressive scope of the continent yet to be explored, the first Expedition could provide a wealth of storytelling opportunities, spanning new environments and encounters without the constraints of its successor’s more focused narrative.
2 Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening
Sparda’s Awakening
While “Devil May Cry 3″serves as a prequel to Dante and Vergil’s saga, deeper questions surrounding the broader narrative of the “Devil May Cry”universe remain. The enigmatic figure of Sparda, once ‘the Dark Knight, ’ deserves further exploration.
Repeated references throughout the series speak to Sparda’s legendary might and pivotal role in sealing the rift between demon worlds and Earth, but neither his powers nor his motivations are thoroughly explored.
A dedicated prequel focusing on Sparda could reveal his legendary feats and illustrate the pivotal moments leading to his awakening to justice, profoundly enriching the franchise’s lore.
1 Metroid
Let Samus Have a Childhood
The timeline within the “Metroid”franchise can be puzzling, with Samus existing as a fully qualified bounty hunter by the time of the original game. However, significant elements of her childhood, including the destruction of her home colony by Ridley, remain largely unexplored.
Between her narrow escape and her eventual training with the Chozo lies an eleven-year gap filled with opportunities for storytelling. A prequel would be an exciting avenue to depict Samus’s early development and her initial experiences with her Power Suit, offering gameplay that explores her formative challenges.
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