Taking Risks: The Key to Success in the Video Game World
In a Reddit thread dated Oct. 8, players shared stories of video game franchises that were on the brink of failure but managed to become industry giants by taking bold risks. These franchises, such as Elder Scrolls, GTA, Warcraft, and Zelda, changed the gaming landscape as we know it.
Changing Genres: Warcraft’s Leap from RTS to MMO
One way to take a risk is by changing the genre of your video game. Warcraft did just that when Blizzard shifted from real-time strategy (RTS) to massively multiplayer online (MMO) gameplay. While Warcraft was already popular as an RTS, the transition to MMO took it to a whole new level. Blizzard’s relentless pursuit of innovation and hunger for more paid off in the end.
From Bankruptcy to Success: The Elder Scrolls’ Last-Ditch Effort
When faced with financial ruin, the developers of the Elder Scrolls series came up with a solution that saved them from bankruptcy. They released Morrowind as a last-ditch attempt at success, and it worked wonders. This success paved the way for future Elder Scrolls releases like Oblivion and Skyrim, securing Bethesda’s place in the industry.
A Change in Perspective: GTA’s Shift to Third Person
Sometimes, all it takes is a change in perspective to solve a problem. This was the case for the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) franchise when it shifted from a top-down view to a third-person perspective. This simple change, combined with expansive maps for its time, propelled the GTA series to great success. Subsequent installments built upon this winning formula, making the franchise even bigger.
Reshaping the Game: Zelda’s Evolution through Time
The Legend of Zelda franchise underwent multiple transformations, reshaping the game and keeping it fresh. With Ocarina of Time, Zelda made the leap from 2D to 3D, revolutionizing the gaming experience. The release of Wind Waker introduced charming cell-shaded graphics, adding a unique visual style. Finally, Breath of the Wild returned to Zelda’s roots, emphasizing exploration and an open world.
Embracing the “What If” Mentality
Sometimes, all it takes is a gamble and the willingness to ask “What if?” Throughout history, the world has been changed by those who dared to question the status quo. The video game industry follows suit, with brave studios breaking norms and setting new trends. As time goes on, we can expect more innovative games that challenge conventions and captivate players.
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Source: DOTESPORTS