Dusting Off the Pixels: 5 Forgotten Game Franchises Crying Out for a Comeback

The video game industry has seen countless franchises rise and fall over the years. Some have remained at the forefront of our screens, while others have faded into the pixelated past. But just because a franchise has been forgotten, it doesn't mean it can't be revived. In this deep dive, we'll explore 5 forgotten video game franchises that are begging for a revival. Each franchise has its unique charm and potential, and with the right touch, could make a triumphant return to the gaming world.

1. Legacy of Kain: A Gothic Masterpiece

Promotional art for Legacy of Kain: Defiance — featuring a high-contrast, gothic blend of Kain and Raziel poised for battle across a fractured, mythic landscape. Photo Credit: OFFICIAL @Fanz

The first franchise on our list is the Gothic masterpiece, 'Legacy of Kain'. This series, which started in 1996, was a narrative-driven action-adventure game set in the dark fantasy world of Nosgoth. Despite its compelling storyline and atmospheric gameplay, the franchise has been dormant since 2003. A revival could bring back the dark, brooding atmosphere that made the series so unique.

2. TimeSplitters: A Time-Travelling Delight

Stylized key art from TimeSplitters, featuring a futuristic, bald protagonist dual-wielding pistols as he leaps through a swirling blue time portal. The image is dynamic and kinetic, evoking high-speed time travel and intense FPS action. Photo Credit: Google @Fanz

Next up is 'TimeSplitters', a first-person shooter series that was known for its unique time-travelling mechanic. Despite its innovative gameplay and quirky humor, the franchise has been inactive since 2005. A revival could tap into the nostalgia of the original games while introducing new mechanics and storylines to attract a new generation of gamers.

3. Earthbound: An RPG Gem

A pixel-art scene from EarthBound, featuring four children standing on a cliffside at night beneath a glowing beam of light. The mysterious atmosphere and the ethereal forest setting evoke a sense of cosmic wonder, childhood bravery, and the surreal charm. Photo Credit: Google @Fanz

'Earthbound' is an RPG franchise that has been dormant for over two decades. Despite its cult following, the series has not seen a new entry since 1995. A revival could bring back the charming characters and quirky humor that made the original games so beloved.

4. Dino Crisis: A Prehistoric Horror

A snarling raptor bursts through cold mist in front of a high-security fence, eyes glowing and teeth bared. The image captures the primal terror and high-stakes urgency of Dino Crisis—where survival means outrunning science gone wrong. Photo Credit: Google @Fanz

'Dino Crisis' was a survival horror franchise that combined tense gameplay with prehistoric terror. Despite its initial success, the franchise has been inactive since 2003. A revival could bring back the thrilling dinosaur encounters and tense survival gameplay that made the original games so memorable.

5. Burnout: High-Speed Thrills

A blazing red sports car tears across asphalt, encircled by clouds of smoke as it executes a flawless burnout. The raw power, spinning rubber, and scorched skid marks capture the pure adrenaline of speed unrestrained. Photo Credit: Google @Fanz

'Burnout' was a racing game franchise known for its high-speed thrills and spectacular crashes. Despite its popularity, the series has been dormant since 2008. A revival could bring back the adrenaline-pumping races and spectacular crash mechanics that made the original games so exciting.

Author Image
Abdul Waha
I’m Abdul, a passionate writer who loves exploring diverse topics and sharing stories that resonate with readers. I find joy in diving into new subjects, whether it’s uncovering fascinating details, simplifying complex ideas, or crafting engaging narratives. When I'm not writing, I enjoy discovering new experiences that spark my curiosity and inspire my next piece.

Latest

Latest