What do fans want from their favorite game series? Many fans desire a fresh take on what makes the games great. Sometimes, this is achieved through remakes, but other times, entirely new games are created.
While we all love video games, it's common to feel at least a little bit disappointed by something in a series we adore. Sometimes, a great idea just needs a new coat of paint, and that freshness is what gave us everyone’s favourite perpetually disappointed video game dad, Kratos. However, there are times when a series is in such a dire state that a total reboot is the only answer.
This doesn't necessarily mean that a series needs to be dead or unsuccessful. Instead, it means that a reset of mechanics, lore, or even playstyle would take things from being cool to being amazing. Of course, sometimes, a reboot doesn’t work. However, if a series has already tried something similar in the past, a reboot is always worth a try.
Let's explore some game series that could benefit from a reboot:
Resident Evil
Resident Evil has had a few stumbles in its action-packed direction, but there is a certain campy charm to the action-packed direction it has taken. The remakes and first-person games have helped bring back some horror, but the characters are still weighed down by lore, even in remakes.
A complete reset of the lore, going back to that creepy mansion, might be the best way to revive the series. While a few remakes could be done, a modern first-person shooter or even a third-person Mega Man game would greatly benefit from a reboot that tells Mega Man's origin story for a new audience. Alternatively, fans have long been clamoring for Mega Man Legends 3.
Metal Gear
The Metal Gear lore has become so convoluted that it's nearly impossible to understand. The series can still be ridiculous, but going back to basics would likely help a lot. A lore reset would be great for bringing a new audience into the currently daunting universe, without requiring drastic changes to the gameplay.
Every single Mega Man series
It's no secret that a modern first-person shooter or even a third-person Mega Man game would be incredible. To achieve this, a complete reboot of the entire franchise, telling whichever version of Mega Man's origin story, would be the best approach for a new audience. Alternatively, fans would be thrilled with the release of Mega Man Legends 3.
Castlevania
A lore reset would be beneficial for introducing a new audience to the currently complex universe of Castlevania. The games wouldn't require significant changes, and any of the Mega Man series could use a reboot, giving fans the opportunity to choose their preferred version.
The identity of Silent Hill
Silent Hill still feels like it's stuck in the nineties, and that's not necessarily a good thing. Updating the creepy town with some modern sensibilities could potentially revive the entire survival horror genre, providing a fresh take on what Silent Hill can be.
Assassin’s Creed
The Assassin's Creed lore has become increasingly convoluted, much like Metal Gear. After numerous entries in the series, it's difficult to feel invested in any of the characters. While the gameplay remains enjoyable, playing it too safe or deviating too far from the core experience isn't resonating with many players.
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic is in desperate need of a successful revival. Similar to Assassin's Creed, playing it too safe or deviating too far from the core experience isn't working for many fans. With numerous Sonic games released, it's time for a fresh start.
Nier
A lore reboot would provide an excellent opportunity to tell a new, interesting, and deep story in the Nier universe.
