20 Biggest Video Game BOMBS That Deserved Better

System Shock is arguably one of the most influential sci-fi immersive sims in video game history, but this said, its legacy unfortunately did not translate to good sales.

At the time of its release in 1994, System Shock showcased some really innovative and never-before-seen features in its gameplay. Not only was it a first-person experience that allowed you to freely explore your environment, with custom physics for the player and individual objects, something that hasn’t been properly done in a game before, but it also offered a ton of interactability with its set pieces that created a truly emergent form of gameplay.

The game’s innovations were so great, it quickly managed to be recognized as a technological marvel, and it even acquired multiple awards throughout its existence.

Despite this, the game was only a moderate commercial success, with sales barely exceeding 170,000 copies, causing its developer, Looking Glass Technologies, to lose money.

The sales also reflected on its somewhat limited popularity, as aside from a small cult following, the game didn’t really amass a huge fan base.

The story does have a happy ending, however, as in 2023 Nightdive Studios released a remake of System Shock, which managed to sell exceedingly well, giving the title the redemption arc it deserves.