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Legend of Zelda: Needs A Subtitle Previewed
1up.com continues its ramp-up to E3 feature rampage with a preview of the next Legend of Zelda title. They discuss not only the upcoming game but some classic moments from the series' past as well. From the article: "Koji Kondo: Yes, as I recall, in the very first Legend of Zelda, in the very opening title screen, we used to use the classical music of 'Bolero,' because that tempo was perfectly matched with the speed of the opening screen rolling. But I remember it was just before, when we really had to complete the final ROM for reproduction, they told me that unfortunately the copyright of that music hadn't expired yet, so I had to compose a completely new piece of music that night. I recall that I did it within one day. You know, 'da-da-da-da' -- that was done in just one day." Witty story name gleaned from toastyfrog's blog.
I don't really see anything wrong with sequels themselves, what exactly are you criticizing? There's nothing inherently better or worse about a member of a franchise as compared to an original title, even if you feel that a disproportionate amount of sequels are of poor quality. Nintendo in particular has a very good reputation with its sequels, they tend to be received as well made and innovative: not 'cookie-cutters'. Take for instance games like Mario Kart DD and Super Smash Brothers Melee, both anticipated to be remakes of their N64 versions with prettier graphics. They ended up being significantly evolved from their earlier versions, and (check Gamerankings if you wish) were very well reviewed.
Personally, I enjoy sequels. It gives the game developers a chance to improve on their original product (good or bad). Think of Street Fighter II! The first Street Fighter was total crap, but the second one brought to life a whole culture of gaming!
Another benefit is being able to enjoy more work from the developers themselves (not just the game as a whole). For example, I follow the castlevania series for it's music. Hell, I follow ALOT of Konami games for their music. Listening to Club Kukeiha's work spanning several Konami titles and sequels is pretty neat!
I'm just ranting now... but sequels can be more to people than just the same "hero" on the screen again. It's nice to see the developers, composers, graphic artits' work again.
I just pooped your party.
"Somewhere between Capcom, Nintendo and EA. They are dictating to the industry that it's ok to sell the sequels for 10+ years."
At least Nintendo is dicating "Despite being a sequal, don't make it a rehash of the original."
Before you angrily hit reply, compare Sonic the Hedgehog 1, 2, and 3 to the first 3 Mario games. Perfect example.
In any event, a game doesn't have to be a sequal to be a snoozer. Plenty of me-too Quake or Street Fighter killers have been made.
"Derp de derp."
It makes one wonder how many games, and movies could have been better if not for the restrictions imposed by the really long lasting copyright law.
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