New entries to established series bring new wrinkles to gameplay and refreshing stories

The video game industry has seen a surge in the number of sequels and spin-offs over the past few years. While some may argue that these are simply cash grabs, there is no denying that these new entries to established series bring something new and exciting to the table. Not only do they introduce fresh gameplay mechanics and improved graphics, but they also offer refreshing stories that keep players engaged and coming back for more.

One of the most anticipated games of 2021 is Resident Evil Village, the eighth installment in the long-running Resident Evil series. Fans of the franchise were ecstatic to see the return of protagonist Ethan Winters, who first appeared in Resident Evil 7. But what makes this entry to the series stand out is the introduction of a new villain, Lady Alcina Dimitrescu, who has already become an internet sensation. Her towering height and commanding presence have captivated players and added a new level of terror to the game.

Similarly, the God of War franchise, known for its hack-and-slash gameplay, took a bold step with its latest installment, God of War (2018). The game continued the story of Kratos, but this time, he was accompanied by his son, Atreus. This added a new dynamic to the gameplay, as players had to strategize and coordinate attacks with their AI-controlled companion. This change in gameplay not only made the game more challenging but also added depth to the relationship between Kratos and Atreus, making for a more emotional and compelling story.

Another example is the Assassin’s Creed series, which has undergone many changes since its inception in 2007. Each new entry brings something new to the table, whether it’s a new historical setting or a new protagonist. But what makes the recent entries, Origins and Odyssey, stand out is the introduction of RPG elements. Players now have the freedom to choose their character’s gender, make choices that affect the story, and explore vast open worlds. These changes have revitalized the series and brought in a new wave of fans.

Apart from gameplay, the stories in these new entries also offer a refreshing change. Take Red Dead Redemption 2, for example, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2010 hit game. While the first game followed the story of John Marston, the second game introduces players to Arthur Morgan, a member of the infamous Van der Linde gang. The game not only explores the events leading up to the first game but also dives deeper into the characters’ backgrounds and motivations. This adds more depth and emotional weight to the story, making it a standout in the series.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the newest entry in the beloved Legend of Zelda series, also brings a new twist to the story. The game takes place in a post-apocalyptic version of Hyrule, where players must explore the vast open world to awaken the ancient divine beasts and defeat the evil Calamity Ganon. This departure from the traditional linear storytelling of the series was a risky move, but it paid off, with the game receiving critical acclaim and numerous awards.

It’s not just long-running series that are seeing new entries with refreshing stories. The Last of Us Part II, the sequel to the highly acclaimed The Last of Us, introduced players to new characters and explored the consequences of the first game’s events. This added a new layer of complexity to the story, making it a thought-provoking and emotional journey. The game also received praise for its diverse representation of characters, showing the industry’s progress in inclusivity and diversity.

These new wrinkles in gameplay and refreshing stories not only keep players invested in the series but also attract new audiences. The success of these new entries is a testament to the gaming industry’s ability to evolve and innovate. It shows that there is always room for improvement and new ideas, and that sequels and spin-offs can bring something new and exciting to the table.

In conclusion, the introduction of new entries to established series brings a breath of fresh air to the gaming industry. They not only add new gameplay mechanics and improved graphics, but also offer refreshing stories that keep players engaged and invested in the series. These new entries also show the industry’s progress in terms of inclusivity and diversity. With the continued success of these games, we can only imagine what new wrinkles and stories the future holds for our favorite series.