Sequels often serve as the evolutionary path for video game franchises, leveraging the strengths of their predecessors to create experiences that feel both familiar and refreshingly distinct. While the ultimate goal is always to elevate the series, there are some original titles that, despite the passage of time and multiple sequels, continue to reign supreme in their respective genres.
In the gaming landscape, numerous classic entries have managed to retain their status as the pinnacle of their series, even as developers create newer iterations. This article pays tribute to those iconic originals that remain the finest offerings from their franchises. For the purpose of clarity, the following discussion will only include series with at least three games, thereby excluding titles like The Last of Us.
9 Rayman
Timeless, Whimsical Fun
Choosing a standout from the Rayman franchise is no easy task. While Rayman Revolutions and Rayman Legends have mesmerized players in their own right, I contend that the debut title retains its status as the most distinctive and visually captivating game in the series. With an art style that encapsulates the whimsical and experimental spirit of the PSX era, Rayman delivers simple yet refined platforming gameplay, complemented by an exceptional soundtrack. Most notably, this title features a deceptively challenging difficulty curve that distinguishes casual players from hardcore platforming enthusiasts. While others may favor Legends or Revolutions, the original remains a timeless classic.
8 Max Payne
Slo-Mo Action
Max Payne narrates the story of a franchise unable to match the monumental success of its inaugural entry. The original game revolutionized the genre with its innovative bullet-time mechanic, reminiscent of Hollywood blockbusters like The Matrix, allowing players to dodge bullets and engage in cinematic shootouts.
Moreover, it uniquely employed comic-book-style storytelling that felt fresh and engaging. Unfortunately, subsequent titles faltered in delivering the same gritty noir experience, with Max Payne 2 and Max Payne 3 struggling to capture the original’s brilliance. Hence, the first installment continues to be the hallmark of the series.
7 Jak & Daxter
The Dynamic Duo In Effect
While many players enjoy the darker themes introduced in later installments, I firmly believe that Jak and Daxter: The Precursor’s Legacy remains the crown jewel of the series. This title stands out with its masterful world design, serving as one of the earliest open-world platforms on the PS2.
From engaging mini-games to exhilarating vehicle sequences and innovative puzzles to collect Power Cells, the original’s design resonates with creativity. Though its combat mechanics may feel less polished than those found in later games, it nevertheless holds its ground as a beloved mascot platformer.
6 Life is Strange
The Butterfly Effect
Despite various sequels and spin-offs following its acclaimed debut, the original Life is Strange remains unparalleled in delivering an immersive narrative experience. This game introduces a refreshing perspective by placing player choice at the forefront of storytelling, crafting a deeply emotional and engaging narrative.
Addressing heavy themes like suicide, grief, and teenage turmoil, the game captivates players from beginning to end, establishing a compelling bond between Chloe and Max that subsequent titles have struggled to replicate. While the landscape has evolved since its release, the game’s impact as a narrative pioneer is undeniably significant.
5 Dead Space
Survival Horror Royalty
The Dead Space series sets the standard for survival horror, with its original game easily standing out as the strongest entry. The first installment immerses players in a chilling atmosphere, with expertly designed spaces that enhance the claustrophobic horror experience.
While the sequels leaned more towards action and cooperative gameplay, the original excels with its creepiness and stunning world-building. The recent remake modernizes this classic while preserving the core framework, making it an essential play for horror aficionados. So if you haven’t ventured into the depths of space horror, I highly recommend taking on this chilling adventure.
4 Deus Ex
Play Your Way
In the realm of immersive simulations, Deus Ex stands as the quintessential benchmark for design excellence. This game introduced players to an intricately crafted world where every choice shapes the experience. Subsequent entries have shifted towards action-centric gameplay with limited immersive sim elements, making the original a unique standout.
The flexibility in gameplay—characterized by various augmentations and multiple paths to complete missions—offers unparalleled replayability. In a genre often criticized for its complexity, Deus Ex encourages players to strategize, making it an enduring classic in the genre.
3 Dragon Age
The Best Origin Story
The Dragon Age series has seen turbulent times, often straying from the roots that captivated players. The shift towards modern action RPG mechanics has deviated from the strong foundation established in Dragon Age: Origins. This title embodies classic CRPG elements with tactical depth that made combat incredibly satisfying.
Additionally, it showcases Bioware’s signature storytelling, character relationships, and decision-making, allowing players to influence their party’s fate. Unfortunately, subsequent titles have not recaptured that same magic, leading to a disconnect from the original’s charm.
2 Dark Souls
Don’t Go Hollow
Focusing exclusively on the Dark Souls trilogy, the original installment deserves recognition as the most outstanding entry. Much of its acclaim stems from the meticulously crafted world design and the seamless interconnectivity that allows players to navigate the game’s expansive realm.
Coupled with a diverse array of formidable bosses and punishingly challenging environments, the original transformed the framework established in Demon’s Souls into a more accessible yet unforgiving experience. While Dark Souls 3 is a visual marvel, the original remains a foundational title that has significantly influenced the genre.
1 Bioshock
A Man Chooses…
Ken Levine’s brilliance shines undoubtedly in Bioshock, a title that has become a gold standard in gaming—yet it also poses a challenge for its creator to surpass. Set in the mesmerizing world of Rapture, players encounter a narrative rife with philosophical musings around ideologies, chaos, and genetic manipulation.
Not only does the game offer engaging mechanics and extensive world-building, but it also features one of the most iconic plot twists in the industry. Given the remarkable quality of the original, Levine has faced the daunting task of topping this masterpiece. While Bioshock 2 and Bioshock Infinite offer their unique experiences, they have yet to replicate the unprecedented impact and storytelling depth found in the first game.
