Games Deserving a Sequel: Top-Rated Titles Long Overdue

Many highly-rated games, with Metacritic scores over 90, deserve video game sequels but have been left behind by the gaming industry, leaving fans yearning for a return to beloved worlds and characters. From cult classics to innovative titles, these games achieved critical acclaim but, for various reasons, never received the follow-up they deserved. Are these forgotten gems destined to remain in the past, or is there still hope for a modern revival?

Whether due to studio closures, shifting priorities, or simply the passage of time, these games represent a treasure trove of untapped potential. This list explores ten such titles, examining why they resonated with players and why a sequel would be a welcome addition to the current gaming landscape.

Wipeout XL: A Futuristic Racer Ripe for Video Game Sequels

Wipeout XL, boasting a Metacritic score of 93, elevated the anti-gravity racing genre with its adrenaline-pumping gameplay and iconic soundtrack. A direct sequel, Wipeout XL, also known as Wipeout 2097, built upon the foundation of the original, delivering an even more intense and immersive experience.

The Wipeout franchise enjoyed several well-received installments, but a true new entry hasn't been seen since 2012. While the closure of the original studio makes a direct sequel less likely, Sony's ownership of the IP leaves the door open for a potential revival by a new developer. Will we ever see another high-speed race through futuristic tracks?

Skies of Arcadia: A Sky Pirate Adventure Crying Out for a Sequel

Sega's Skies of Arcadia, earning a 93 rating on Metacritic, captivated players with its charming characters, vibrant world, and engaging sky pirate storyline. This Dreamcast title followed a band of adventurers as they explored the floating continents of Arcadia aboard their airship.

Despite Sega's initial consideration of a sequel for the GameCube or Game Boy Advance, the project never materialized. Kenji Hiruta, a developer on the original game, expressed his desire to create a sequel as recently as 2020. The game's unique blend of exploration, adventure, and airship combat makes it a prime candidate for a modern revival.

Grim Fandango: A Noir Adventure That Deserves Video Game Sequels

Grim Fandango, a beloved adventure game from Tim Schafer and LucasArts, transported players to a unique and memorable world of the dead, earning a 94 on Metacritic. The unforgettable journey of Manny Calavera through the land of the dead is a classic, and many fans would love to revisit the unique world and its quirky cast of characters.

While Tim Schafer has expressed interest in creating new IPs, the enduring popularity of Grim Fandango suggests that a sequel could find a receptive audience. Could a new adventure in the Land of the Dead recapture the magic of the original?

Jet Set Radio: A Stylish Skateboarding Game That Needs a Sequel

Jet Set Radio (94 on Metacritic) and its sequel, Jet Set Radio Future, combined inline skating, graffiti art, and a funky soundtrack to create a unique and unforgettable gaming experience. Players cruised through the stylized streets of Tokyo, evading authorities and expressing themselves through vibrant graffiti.

A new game was teased in 2023, but it remains unclear whether it will be a reboot or a true sequel. The series' distinctive style and energetic gameplay have cultivated a dedicated fanbase eager for a return to the streets of Tokyo.

Portal: A Puzzle Game Series Ripe For Video Game Sequels

Both the original Portal (90 on Metacritic) and its equally excellent sequel Portal 2 (95 on Metacritic) are considered some of the best games ever made. The puzzle game had people thinking with interconnected, wormhole-like portals as they made their way through a series of test chambers.

With Portal 2 released in 2011, the wait for a third installment has been long. While many games have attempted to replicate its formula, a return to the Aperture Science labs is highly anticipated by fans worldwide.

Half-Life: The Sequel That Became a Meme

The Half-Life series has consistently delivered critically acclaimed titles, including Half-Life (96 on Metacritic), Half-Life 2 (96 on Metacritic), and Half-Life: Alyx (93 on Metacritic). However, the prolonged absence of Half-Life 3 has transformed it into a legendary example of delayed releases.

Despite occasional rumors, Valve has yet to officially announce the game. The anticipation for Half-Life 3 remains incredibly high, making it one of the most sought-after sequels in gaming history. Will we ever witness Gordon Freeman's return?

Eternal Darkness: A Psychological Horror Game Deserving of a Sequel

Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem (92 on Metacritic) redefined psychological horror, blurring the lines between the game and reality with its innovative sanity meter. The 2002 GameCube title messed with players' minds in unprecedented ways.

Attempts to create a sequel or spiritual successor have failed to materialize. A modern-day follow-up, leveraging advancements in technology and graphics, could offer an even more terrifying and immersive experience.

Bloodborne: The Lovecraftian Action RPG in Need of Video Game Sequels

FromSoftware's Bloodborne, with a Metacritic score of 92, stands out as a beloved entry in the Soulslike genre, captivating players with its Lovecraftian setting, challenging gameplay, and unique co-op mechanics. The title swapped the high-fantasy setting of the mainline Souls titles in favor of Lovecraftian horrors, gun-toting protagonists, and true co-op.

Fans have long campaigned for a sequel, but the IP's ownership by Sony has complicated matters. As time passes, a remake seems more likely than a full-fledged sequel, but the potential for a new chapter in the Bloodborne universe remains a tantalizing prospect.

Perfect Dark: A Classic FPS Ready for a Modern Reboot

Perfect Dark, released in 2000, pushed the N64 to its limits and earned a 97 on Metacritic, solidifying its status as one of the highest-rated first-person shooters of all time. Inspired by GoldenEye 007, the game offered a tense and engaging single-player campaign, as well as a robust multiplayer mode.

While a 2005 sequel failed to capture the magic of the original, a "AAAA" reboot was recently canceled. Despite this setback, the enduring appeal of Perfect Dark suggests that a modern reimagining could find success.

Conker's Bad Fur Day: A Raunchy Classic Unlikely to Be Replicated

Conker's Bad Fur Day (92 on Metacritic) stood out for its raunchy humor and mature themes, a departure from Rare's previous family-friendly titles. The game's inappropriate humor made it a beloved game at the time but would likely be deemed too offensive today.

While Conker has made occasional appearances since, a full-fledged sequel with the same level of irreverence seems unlikely in today's gaming climate. However, the game's unique personality and willingness to push boundaries have earned it a lasting cult following.

While the gaming industry continues to rely on nostalgia and revive classic titles, many highly-rated games still await the video game sequels they deserve. Whether through remakes, reboots, or entirely new installments, these games represent a wealth of untapped potential, offering the opportunity to revisit beloved worlds and characters while introducing them to a new generation of players.