10 Video Game Pre Orders That Were Actually Awesome

You shouldn't always disregard the store clerk when he asks if you want any preorders. Here's why.

Catherine Pre Order Love Pillow
WhatCulture

The impulse to pre-emptively reserve a copy of the latest game release is often a slippery slope. For many, the promise of stellar virtual entertainment is enough for them reach for the wallet and immediately shell out the funds, building anticipation until release day finally dawns. The reality of pre-ordering games is rather more glum, as video games, not unlike film, TV or comics, have the potential to disappoint, and often does so in spectacular fashion.

As a result, jaded gamers often resort to cautiously awaiting review scores to hit the net before finally deciding to invest their hard-earned cash on their most-anticipated titles. Anticipation is always accompanied by the caveat that the product may not live up to the years of excitement, and unless developers can conjure an enticing reason for players to prematurely purchase their game, pre-orders may quickly dwindle.

There is, however, a smattering of games that defy the negative reputation, offering a number of incentives that make the decision to slap down the cash in advance totally worthwhile. It’s important to give credit where it’s due, so here we go.

10. Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts

Catherine Pre Order Love Pillow
Microsoft//Rare

Released eight years after the series’ last home console instalment, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts was originally designed as a remake of the beloved Nintendo 64 classic Banjo-Kazooie after Microsoft acquired Rare in 2002. Development on a redo was halted in its early stages, with Rare insisting that the formula was in need of innovation if it was to compete with other titles in its genre.

The title would gain decent scores from review outlets as the pair of unlikely heroes bundled their way onto the next generation of consoles in time for the 2008 holiday season.

Awaiting those brave enough to preorder Nuts & Bolts was a code for the N64 original. Long-time fans of the series rejoiced as the gift of nostalgia bundled with granted them early access to their childhood love two weeks before those foolish enough to err on the side of caution and wait for a price cut. Newcomers to the series were rewarded for their curiosity with one of gaming's finest 3D platformers, which also served as a history lesson to those intrigued by the series' beginnings.

 
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Fan of ducks, ice tea and escapism. Spends much of his time persistently saying 'I have so much studying to do' before watching Zoey 101 for the millionth time. Thinks Uncharted 3 is the best one.