10 Great Video Game Sequels NOBODY Asked For
Sequels are often a foregone conclusion, unless they aren't.
As more high-budget games hit digital and physical storefronts it's increasingly harder for new games to stand out.
Capturing lightning in a bottle is tough, so when developers do so it's almost always assumed that a sequel will be greenlit. Sometimes they prove to be runaway successes, paving the way for a franchise to flourish, and other instances the follow-up can do away with what made the first so great. Conversely, there are some games that few expected to receive a sequel, but got one anyway.
Be it because the story ended so neatly not warranting another or the first title simply didn't blow players away, unexpected sequels can be used to further add lore and context to the first game, or reinvent a franchise in a desperate attempt to stay relevant.
In a time when sequels and threequels are nothing new, it's all the more curious when a self-contained experience ends in a way that doesn't justify another entry. When a sequel emerges anyway and improves upon --or upholds the standards of-- its predecessor it's often cause for excitement, showing that the idea has more to give, and any renewed interest is justified.
10. Final Fantasy XIII-2
While the Final Fantasy series is known for its wonderful storytelling, now-iconic characters and immersive world-building, there have been a few entries that failed to uphold the standards that Final Fantasy 6, 7, 10, and 14 have made the norm.
Final Fantasy XIII was one such instance, with boring linear levels, a story that was nothing to write home about, and a forgettable battle system. Not only is it a blemish on Square Enix resume, but it's also seen by most as the lowest point in a JRPG franchise that is known for quality.
Its successor, the aptly-titled Final Fantasy XIII-2 moved Lightning's story in a positive direction, with less linearity and more improvements in the gameplay department refining the edges to make a game that is underrated because of its association to the game that came before.
It's rare that any mainline Final Fantasy game receives a direct sequel, and fans would be chomping at the bit at the idea of a follow-up to some of its best entries. However, XIII was poor, and in dire need of salvation. It got it with XIII-2, and while the while saga isn't well remembered, the second game in the trilogy at least tried to save its reputation.