More often than not a sequel is not as good as the original. Most prefer their favourite games to be left alone and not receive a sequel. However in some cases sequels can exceed expectations with fans welcoming continuations.
One example is the on-going rumour of production on The Last of Us 2. Furthermore upcoming games due for release are; sequels, reboots or franchise prolongations.
This week’s Four of a Kind will examine gaming sequels.
1. Street Fighter II (SNES)
Street Fighter II is universally considered one of the best sequels. This is interesting as most have neither heard of nor played the original. More importantly SFII revolutionised the fighting game genre, laying the groundwork for future titles of the series and games that aimed to battle with the franchise.
The first game is basic, controls are unresponsive, in-game difficulty is frustratingly harsh and contains only two playable characters (iconic stalwarts Ryu and Ken). Street Fighter II fixed all of these problems and created a game that has; an in-depth roster, fluid gameplay, balanced paced, varied fighting stages, multiple plots and overall a gaming legacy that is still as strong today.
2. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (Sega Megadrive)
Sonic the Hedgehog’s sequel surpasses the original mostly owing to the game debuting on the Sega Megadrive, the follow up console to Sega Master. As a result Sonic 2 boats more loops, corkscrews and environments to experience. Gameplay mechanics are also upgraded, significantly the addition of the spin-dash manoeuvre. Though a simple ability at the time it was seen as revolutionary in generating extra speed to the already fast-paced gameplay.
Animations and visuals are also sharper due to the 16-bit graphics. Moreover Sonic 2 introduced co-op play in the form of Tails, Sonic’s duo-tailed fox companion, to create a simultaneous, but flawed, experience for friends. Lastly method in which the game physically interacts with Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is brilliant.
3. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island (SNES)
Despite acting as a prequel to Super Mario World, with a different main character, Yoshi’s Island deserves a place on this list for numerous reasons. The most appealing aspect of the game is that it retains some traditional gameplay, seen in previous Mario games, but almost also removes them.
For example Yoshi defends himself and baby Mario, whom he is protecting, from enemies by throwing eggs rather than jumping on heads. Furthermore the ability to transform into various vehicles is a more intelligent, exciting twist on Mario obtaining different suits.
Lastly movement is more precise, meaning less instances of running off cliffs, and each level has a more colourful, cartoon-like depiction to produce an enjoyable world.
4. Monkey Island 2: LeChuck’s Revenge (PC)
LeChuck’s revenge does not deviate much from the original Monkey Island game, possibly due to budget. Once again players direct Guybrush Threepwood through a traditional point-and-click pirate adventure including; searching for buried treasure, making voodoo dolls and competing in a spitting contest.
However the graphics are an improvement on the basic visuals, puzzles are more challenging and the fantastic humour engages players’ attention. Regarding the puzzles, many conundrums are presented via observations or conversations. Though some are undemanding most require a certain level of patience or calmness. Concerning the humour, the game’s tone is outstanding, memorable and wittier in comparison to the first game.
Lastly a redesign in controls, such as the fewer verbs and graphical inventory, increase the game’s ease.
Do you agree with this week’s games? Are there any games omitted from the list that you believe outshined their predecessors more? If so feel free to leave a comment below.
Honourable mentions: Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, Doom II, SSX Tricky, Golden Axe 2, Toe Jam & Ear in Panic on Funkotron, Shenmue 2, Deus Ex: Invisible War, Jak II, Tomb Raider II, StarFox 64, Silent Hill 2, The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask, Resident Evil 2 and Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back