10 Video Games That Only Exist Because Of Nostalgia

10. Tales Of Monkey Island

Released nearly a decade after the previous instalment, Tales of Monkey Island was the fifth game in the series, and was generally considered a success, both critically and commercially. In the game, players reassume the role of Guybrush Threepwood, a notorious pirate who in an attempt to rescue his wife from long-time nemesis, Captain LéChuck, unleashes a voodoo plague into the Caribbean, and is tasked with finding the elusive cure.

The game was initially praised upon its release, but was later criticised for a handful of minor shortcomings, including a weak supporting cast of forgettable characters. It was also accused by some of wallowing in previous instalments, and for making constant, irritating references to previous games. In one episode, Guybrush Threepwood even encounters his number one fan, who praises him for all his many accomplishments in past games, which comes across as more than a little irritating.

Tales of Monkey Island was also criticised for failing to evolve the formula in any meaningful way, and for simplifying many of the series’ staples, including inventory puzzles. The frequent call-backs and references only highlighted this issue further, as instead of developing the concept into something new and exciting, the game simply leeched off the legacy of the franchise, and sold itself on nostalgia alone.