The world of gaming is filled with iconic series that have shaped the industry and captured the hearts of millions. From epic adventures to intense action-packed gameplay, game franchises have evolved over the years, each entry adding new layers of excitement. However, not every installment in these beloved series can be considered a masterpiece. Below, we’ll rank some of the most popular game series, from their best entries to their lesser-loved installments.
1. The Legend of Zelda Series
Best Entry: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda series is one of the most influential and beloved franchises in gaming. Its mix of action, puzzles, exploration, and immersive worlds has kept fans engaged for decades. The pinnacle of this franchise, Breath of the Wild, redefined open-world gaming with its vast landscapes, dynamic weather systems, and deep, emergent gameplay. Its freedom of exploration and innovative mechanics set a new standard for the industry.
Worst Entry: Zelda: The Wand of Gamelon
While most entries in the Zelda series are highly regarded, The Wand of Gamelon is often considered one of the worst. Released for the Philips CD-i, this game featured poor graphics, awkward controls, and an incoherent storyline that failed to capture the magic of the mainline Zelda games. It remains a blemish on an otherwise legendary series.
2. Super Mario Series
Best Entry: Super Mario Odyssey
The Super Mario franchise has defined platforming for generations. With numerous entries in the series, it’s no surprise that ranking them can be challenging. Super Mario Odyssey, however, stands out as the best. Its vibrant worlds, creative level designs, and the addition of Cappy, Mario’s new companion, provided an exciting new twist on the classic Mario formula. Its exploration-focused W88 gameplay and vast open environments gave fans a refreshing and engaging experience.
Worst Entry: Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA)
While the Super Mario Bros. franchise is almost flawless, Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA) is an odd entry. Unlike its predecessors, this game was originally developed as Doki Doki Panic and rebranded with Mario characters. The gameplay felt different, featuring mechanics like picking up and throwing enemies, which diverged from the classic platforming experience fans had come to love. Though it has a unique charm, it doesn’t hold up as strongly compared to other Mario titles.
3. Grand Theft Auto Series
Best Entry: Grand Theft Auto V
The Grand Theft Auto franchise is known for its sprawling open-world cities, dark humor, and intense action. Grand Theft Auto V is the undisputed king of this series. Its rich storytelling, multi-character approach, and massive online multiplayer component have made it one of the best-selling games of all time. The game’s attention to detail, from the open world to the satirical narrative, is unmatched.
Worst Entry: Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories
While Liberty City Stories was a decent game for the PSP, it’s often considered one of the weakest entries in the GTA series. The game was a spin-off and lacked the polish and innovation that fans had come to expect from the mainline entries. The smaller scale and less engaging narrative made it feel like a step back compared to the groundbreaking experiences of GTA III and GTA V.
4. Halo Series
Best Entry: Halo: Combat Evolved
The Halo series helped define the first-person shooter genre for consoles. The original Halo: Combat Evolved was groundbreaking, with its excellent multiplayer, innovative AI, and gripping story. The game’s success launched a franchise that remains a staple of gaming culture. Its blend of intense combat, vehicular gameplay, and immersive sci-fi world made it a milestone in the gaming world.
Worst Entry: Halo 5: Guardians
Halo 5: Guardians is often seen as the weakest entry in the franchise. Its focus on an overly complex and somewhat confusing story, along with a lack of character development for key figures like Master Chief, disappointed many long-time fans. The emphasis on multiplayer also left the single-player campaign feeling underwhelming. Despite its polished gameplay, Halo 5 failed to capture the magic of its predecessors.
5. Final Fantasy Series
Best Entry: Final Fantasy VII
With its sweeping narratives, beautiful music, and engaging battle systems, Final Fantasy has captivated players for decades. Final Fantasy VII is frequently regarded as the best entry, thanks to its unforgettable characters like Cloud Strife and Sephiroth, as well as its emotionally charged story. Its transition to 3D graphics and the rich, detailed world of Gaia revolutionized RPGs and remains a landmark in gaming history.
Worst Entry: Final Fantasy XIV (Initial Release)
While Final Fantasy XIV has been praised for its rebirth in the form of A Realm Reborn, the initial release was a massive failure. The game was plagued by technical issues, poor design decisions, and a lack of polish. It was so bad that Square Enix had to shut it down and rebuild the game from the ground up. However, the subsequent version turned out to be one of the most successful MMOs of all time.
6. Assassin’s Creed Series
Best Entry: Assassin’s Creed II
The Assassin’s Creed series revolutionized the open-world action genre. Assassin’s Creed II is often cited as the best entry, thanks to its compelling story, breathtaking visuals, and refined gameplay. The game introduced Ezio Auditore, one of the franchise’s most beloved characters, and allowed players to experience a rich historical setting while utilizing stealth, parkour, and combat.
Worst Entry: Assassin’s Creed III
While Assassin’s Creed III had a great premise, with players stepping into the shoes of Connor Kenway during the American Revolution, it didn’t live up to the standards set by previous entries. The game felt rushed, with a lackluster story and awkward gameplay mechanics that detracted from the experience. The protagonist was also less charismatic, making it a less memorable chapter in the series.
Conclusion
The world of gaming is filled with memorable franchises that have both thrilled and disappointed players. From groundbreaking innovations to missteps in design, these series have seen their fair share of highs and lows. While there will always be debate about which entries are the best and which are the worst, one thing is clear—these games have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. Whether you’re a fan of open-world exploration or fast-paced action, these franchises have something for everyone.