Fans of video games are no stranger to disappointment. For every revolutionary, exhilarating gaming experience, there are perhaps two dozen duds. Nothing hurts more though than a new title releasing from your favorite developer, or from one of the top franchises, and it being a complete and utter letdown. Now, not all disappointing games are technically bad; but because hopes and expectations are so great, when it fails to deliver it can hurt worse than a punch directly in the gut.
In recent years, there have been some truly spectacular failures in video games, with some of the most notable being Fallout 76, Mass Effect Andromeda, Cyberpunk 2077, and Marvel’s Avengers. There’s no singular reason for their lukewarm reception in the gaming community, though one thing they all have in common are exceedingly high expectations while delivering mediocre performances.
It’s no surprise that these misfires happen. The gaming industry is more competitive than ever, and the technology has risen to the point where most anyone with a computer and some knowhow can at least craft a playable product. I mean, just look at Flappy Bird. With this technology though comes dizzyingly high costs and years of man hours to produce what would be considered a AAA experience. For many studios, the best way to stand out in this crowded market is to craft the biggest game with the best graphics and the highest of ambitions. If they can achieve this, then great! But more often than not, what gets released is a glitch filled mess, where gameplay and performance are often the corners cut in order to craft the prettiest thing on the market.
Of course, gaming disappointments aren’t anything new. The infamous Atari releases of Pac-Man and E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial were so bad that they are often blamed for the near death of the entire industry despite their earth-shattering sales. Thus, whether you’ve just picked up gaming as a hobby or have been using a joystick since the 70s, chances are you’ve had your fair share of downers.
So, what games have you been personally hyped for that left you just feeling empty inside after finally playing it? What games had such high expectations that they couldn’t possibly succeed no matter how good they came to be? I’d love to know your thoughts in the comments below!
Image Source: No Man’s Sky, Fallout 76 Trailer.
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