10 Sci-Fi Video Game Sequels Better Than The Original

There have been countless science-fiction masterpieces in the history of gaming. From the explorative adventures of Samus Aran in the Metroid games, to the emotional resonance and moral conflicts of Commander Shepard in the Mass Effect Trilogy, science-fiction gaming has approached concepts and blockbuster scale in a way unlike any other genre in the industry.

Throughout the genre's existence, there have been original titles within franchises or specific iterations of series that have left monumental impacts, being heralded as some of the greatest games ever made. The original Doom, the first Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and the initial entry in the Deus Ex series are still arguably the high points of their franchises, leaving an impact that can never be denied or understated.

However, even in series with incredible original entries, there is always the potential for sequels to transcend their predecessors and become unstoppable forces within the gaming industry. It is always an incredible feeling after playing an original game to see its sequel expand into something utterly breathtaking, witnessing the potential for greatness being fulfilled in a way better than anyone could have dreamed.

These are the 10 science-fiction sequels that improve on their originals.

The original Bioshock is a masterpiece. One of the greatest examples of world design in video game history, the underwater libertarian nightmare of Rapture is further etched into the minds of those who have explored it. Bioshock has one of the most famous narratives in the history of the medium, ensuring that players question their willingness to follow orders and how much control they actually have through the miraculous Andrew Ryan twist. It is monumental in every way.

While Bioshock Infinite doesn't have an iconic narrative moment that approaches the Andrew Ryan one, it is one of the most ambitious conceptual experiences in mainstream gaming and remains utterly thought provoking to this day. The new setting of Columbia leads to greater freedom in gameplay, with the Sky-Line traversal system leading to more entertaining and dynamic encounters with enemies.

However, what draws so many fans to Bioshock Infinite is the staggering scale of the narrative. Over the course of the game, reality itself gets deconstructed, dimensions bleed into each other and identities of friends/enemies seem to shift unrecognisably with every scene. It is a masterclass of forward-thinking writing, a perfect conclusion to a series so defined by its storytelling ambition.