January 13th 2025.
Are open world games becoming too big and is the gaming industry ready for a smaller generation? The Monday letters page explores this topic and shares their excitement for potential remakes of Resident Evil Code: Veronica and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.
As we anticipate the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 and the start of a new generation, there is a growing sentiment that video games have become too large and time-consuming. With PlayStation and Xbox continuously pushing for more powerful consoles, some readers suggest that they should also consider making their games shorter and more affordable. This would not only allow players to complete a game within a reasonable timeframe, but also accommodate the demands of modern lifestyles.
In addition, there seems to be a decline in the popularity of open world games, with some attributing this to the overwhelming size and scope of recent releases. This sentiment is reflected in the disappointment towards Star Wars Outlaws, which many feel was hindered by its open world format. The idea of starting a new open world game now fills some with dread, as the thought of dedicating countless hours to a single game seems unfathomable.
Looking ahead, there is much speculation about the potential success of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its ability to attract third party publishers. While some have doubts about its sales potential, others believe that it has the potential to become the most important console of the generation. Many readers are eagerly anticipating the release of Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth on the Switch 2, and are hopeful to see more mainline Final Fantasy titles on a Nintendo console.
In terms of remakes, there is a lot of excitement surrounding the possibility of Resident Evil Code: Veronica and Zero being modernized. For many, these games hold a special place in their hearts and they would love to see them updated in the same manner as Resident Evil 4. Similarly, there is a desire for more remakes of classic games, as seen with the recent release of Resident Evil 3.
As we reflect on the past 30 years of gaming, there is a sense that the industry is on the cusp of change. Some readers believe that the Nintendo Switch 2 could pave the way for a new focus on gameplay over graphics, as PlayStation and Xbox seem to be stuck in their ways. This sentiment is echoed in the hope for a remastered version of classic titles like Command & Conquer, which would be a welcome addition to the next generation of consoles.
It will be fascinating to see the impact of the Nintendo Switch 2 on the gaming industry, and whether it will usher in a new era of smaller, more focused games. As we eagerly await the release of new consoles and potential remakes, let's continue to share our thoughts and opinions through discussions and emails.
Is the gaming world getting tired of open world games? That's the question being raised in the Monday letters page, where readers are discussing the possibility of a Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth release on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. One reader even hopes for a remake of Resident Evil Code: Veronica. To join in on the conversation, simply email us at the provided address.
As we eagerly await the launch of Nintendo Switch 2 and the start of a new generation, it's interesting to hear discussions from various individuals, including publishers and fans, about the growing size of video games. With PlayStation and Xbox constantly pushing for more powerful consoles, some are suggesting that shorter and more affordable games would be a welcome change. This would not only make it easier for gamers to complete a game within a reasonable timeframe, but it would also cater to the busy lifestyles of today's society. After all, spending 60 hours on a single game is simply not feasible for most people. It seems that the trend of creating massive open world games is no longer as popular as it used to be. Perhaps this shift in preference is what led to the underwhelming performance of Star Wars Outlaws. Personally, the thought of starting a new open world game now fills me with dread, as the time commitment required is simply too much. It's gotten to the point where I no longer desire these types of games, no matter how good they may be.
Moving on to the topic of Nintendo Switch 2, it's safe to say that third party publishers will be jumping on board and releasing their games for the console. As one reader pointed out, it's uncertain whether these games will sell well, but if they do, Switch 2 could potentially become the most important console of the generation. I, for one, am particularly excited for the release of Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth on the Switch 2. It will not only be interesting to see how well these games perform in terms of sales, but also how Rebirth, being a PlayStation 5 game, will run on the Switch 2. And let's not forget the nostalgia factor of having mainline Final Fantasy games back on a Nintendo console, where it all began.
While it's possible that Western games may not fare as well on the Switch 2, I believe that games with a similar vibe to Nintendo's style will do exceptionally well. Take Metaphor: ReFantazio, for example.
It's definitely going to be an exciting year for gaming, with the launch of Switch 2 and all the potential it holds. However, it's important to note that sometimes, it seems like the gaming industry follows a pattern similar to that of Star Trek movies – one console is a hit, while the next one is a miss. But I have a good feeling about Switch 2. It's the perfect time for Nintendo to shine, as PlayStation and Xbox are too set in their ways to consider reducing the power of their consoles. Therefore, the Switch 2 may very well be the only sustainable future for gaming. Of course, there is a limit to how far graphics and power can go before it becomes too expensive and time-consuming. If Switch 2 proves that you don't necessarily need to surpass the PlayStation 4 in terms of power, it may send a message to Sony and Microsoft to focus more on gameplay rather than graphics in the next generation.
Switching gears, let's talk about a recent rumor claiming that Resident Evil Code: Veronica and Zero may be getting remakes. While Capcom initially shut down the idea of a Code: Veronica remake, recent sources, including IGN, suggest otherwise. It's not surprising, considering the success of other Resident Evil remakes. As someone who grew up playing Code: Veronica, I would love to see it modernized in the same way as Resident Evil 4 and other remakes. And let's be honest, you can never have enough of Claire Redfield, who happens to be my favorite character from the franchise. Although I've noticed that she's not as popular among fans in general. I guess it's like choosing your favorite James Bond or Doctor Who – it often comes down to who you were introduced to first and it's hard to let go of that.
On the topic of remakes, I have to mention Resident Evil 3. While the game has received some criticism, I personally think it's a great remake. I've played through it multiple times and although there are some frustrating boss fights towards the end, overall it's a solid game. For me, the nostalgia factor of the classic save room music and other familiar elements throughout the game really adds to the experience. Sure, some areas from the original were skipped, but I still enjoyed it more than the Resident Evil 2 remake. Mr. X's constant pursuit in Leon's campaign was not only annoying, but it also took away from the fear factor. And don't even get me started on the lack of the classic tune in the police station.
Lastly, a fantastic Reader's Feature by Gorf on the 30th anniversary of Command & Conquer caught my attention. As a long-time fan myself, I highly recommend giving it a read. I, too, would love to see a remastered 4K HDR10 port of Command & Conquer 3, Kane's Wrath, and Red Alert 3 included with Commander's Challenge for the next generation of consoles.
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