10 Great Action Video Game Franchises (That Died Too Soon)

You’d think a new IP from the creators of Gears of War would be a roaring success, but that was not to be the case with Bulletstorm. Released in 2011 on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 to much anticipation, Bulletstorm was a unique, thrilling experience that was well suited for a multi-game series.

Set in the far future of the 26th century, you play as Grayson Hunt, an exiled space pirate who seeks revenge on his previous commanders. The game is known for its comic book style, exuberant characters, dark humor, and extravagant use of profanity and gory violence. The most memorable elements of Bulletstorm were the use of an energy leash to whip enemies and send them flying, as well as the fun use of a stomping kick to push enemies away. The game encouraged players to think outside the box and kill enemies in the most creative way possible, resulting in a fun, quirky first-person shooter.

Bulletstorm was critically praised, receiving favorable reviews, yet it suffered commercially with a poor showing in sales. Over the years Bulletstorm has amassed a cult following, with many requesting a sequel. A Bulletstorm 2 has been frequently rumored but nothing clear has emerged. In 2017, Bulletstorm: Full Clip Edition, a remaster of the original game was released for Xbox One and PlayStation 4, which does give hope for a potential return to the series for the new generation, but for now, Bulletstorm remains a one-hit wonder.