Why don’t all games have spinoffs and sequels?
In sequels and spinoffs, developers can expand on the original concept of a game and introduce new styles of play. Huge titles such as Uncharted use spinoffs like The Lost Legacy (2017) to add maps and protagonists that enhance the story without making the player start from scratch in a new universe. New content is expected for the most successful games or those with access to funding, while unpopular and indie games often remain as standalone titles.
Spinoffs offer more creative freedom
In a spinoff, the plot often follows a different trajectory from the main game. This gives developers the chance to experiment with graphics, character development, and gameplay without changing the canon. At an NJ online casino, you’ll find many slots and table games based on the same original idea but offering variations in the gameplay. To search for exciting titles that suit your style of play, head to resortscasino.com; they’ve brought together a diverse selection of jackpots, Slingo, and megaways, as well as great promotions.
Spinoffs bridge the gap between major releases
As the development period of AAA games expands year on year, spinoffs that are smaller in scale and complexity take less time to complete. Launching a year later than the mainline versions or at the same time, add-on content gives players a new twist on the narrative or creates additional ways to play. In 2019, Wolfenstein: Cyberpilot was released along with Wolfenstein: Youngblood, giving players a VR treat with a narrative connection to the traditional title.
Why some games lack spinoffs
Some games were given such a negative reception at their launch that no developer would be interested in risking a spinoff. Titles like the 2021 platformer Balan Wonderworld (2021), which sold around 2000 copies, are not worth the investment. Unpopular games are disliked for various reasons; gamers may find the mechanics difficult to master, the narrative boring, or the gameplay repetitive.
Indie developers don’t have the financial backing
For indie games that have done well in a niche market, the investment required to produce a spinoff can also be lacking. This is less to do with the quality or likability of the content and more about small developers not being able to raise the funds. Rise and Shine, an indie puzzler from 2017, is an example of a beautifully presented and well-received game that never had a sequel.
The original game was too controversial
Occasionally the quality of the game is good, and the developers have a healthy funding stream, but the title is marred by controversy. This can lead to a damaging series of reviews that ultimately means the game never moves on from its original narrative. The 2018 horror game Agony was generally disliked by reviewers for its overuse of violence, and a sequel was never made.
Spinoffs and sequels to great games offer players new material and a change of pace. When gamers crave a fresh experience and don’t feel like diving into an epic title, a smaller world that feels comfortingly familiar can be a welcome distraction.