Top Ten Franchises of This Generation
The current generation of consoles has become synonymous with overwhelming production costs that require most publishers to bet on a sure thing, a proven brand. Surprisingly, a great deal of new franchises have achieved considerable success, despite the inherent risk of releasing an unknown commodity. When creativity flourishes the following franchises are born, the best of this console generation, in alphabetical order.
Assassin's Creed
Despite the design shortcomings of the original Assassin's Creed, the series has gone on to achieve blockbuster success largely thanks to a brilliant marketing campaign. Fortunately, the series' potential has been realized since then and has gone on to become one of the most intriguing gaming experiences of the last few years - the historical period pieces alone weave a strong narrative.
BioShock
BioShock was one of the first major hits for a new IP this generation. While creator Ken Levine may have not intended it to become a recurring property, the series' signature themes still continue to resonate with gamers as Irrational returns for BioShock: Infinite.
Dead Space
Wherever you fall on the demise of the survival-horror genre debate, there's no denying the merits of Dead Space's design that somewhat strays from traditional horror in favour of an action driven approach. The cohesive world and gruesome scares have helped make Dead Space an ideal formula for the modern horror game.
Gears of War
Gears of War was arguably the first game to show what high-definition graphics could truly achieve on consoles. It also popularized the snap-in cover mechanic, which has become a staple of third-person shooters. For those reasons alone, Gears' influence this generation is undeniable.
Left 4 Dead
Valve's spectacular, co-op driven franchise has helped lead the zombie infestation currently engulfing the gaming industry. In an age when seemingly everything needs some kind of zombie mechanic, Left 4 Dead continues to set the gold standard. The action is frantic, AI intelligent, and co-op addictive.
LittleBigPlanet
LittleBigPlanet made waves in 2008 by placing user-created content at the core of its experience. The game's endless charm and creativity made it a critical and commercial darling, inspiring several imitators. With a successful PSP extension and sequel with the ability to create more than unique platformers, the future is bright for everyone's beloved Sackboy.
Mass Effect
Mass Effect has brought BioWare's mastery of role-playing games to a wider console audience. The series has also pushed player choice to the next level by incorporating choices made from the very beginning throughout Commander Shepard's trilogy.
Rock Band
Harmonix helped revitalize music-rhythm games in the West with Guitar Hero and now Rock Band. The series continually adds layers to the genre, whether it be the full band setup or Pro Mode's fully functional instruments. In short: Rock Band is the definitive music-rhythm experience.
Uncharted
If there's one way to describe Uncharted, it's that it's greater than the sum of its parts - there's just something intangible about it. The brilliant characters and storytelling, thrilling set pieces, clever level design, and stunning art direction all come together in an incredibly complete package.
Valkyria Chronicles
Valkyria Chronicles has received plenty of praise from the gaming press, but remains largely overlooked by the majority of Western gamers. Perhaps it's the shift from PS3 to the PSP, or maybe turn-based RPGs with anime-inspired visuals aren't marketable unless you're into Final Fantasy or Japanese pop culture in general. Either way, Valkyria Chronicles is definitely worth your time.
Honorable Mentions:
- Infamous
- MotorStorm
- Peggle
- Portal
- Resistance
