It looks like a full-scale resurrection of video gaming’s most beloved and neglected franchises is well underway. And last week’s announcement of the Baldur’s Gate remakes as well as yesterday’s Shenmue HD news seems only the beginning. “Baldur’s Gate 3 has been our long-term goal,” according to Beamdog’s Cameron Tofer.
“We have a lot of things to put in place before such a project can be launched. So currently there is no such project but that’s the one we want to do. Our thoughts have been that Enhanced Edition for BG 1 and 2 just make sense before there’s any Baldur’s Gate 3.” The developer went on to mention Kickstarter and Brian Fargo’s successful Wasteland 2 fundraising campaign. I’ll just be over here trying not to make any sudden moves in case this is all just a beautiful dream.
The Revival of Classic Franchises
The gaming community has long yearned for the return of classic franchises that defined the golden age of video gaming. Titles like Baldur’s Gate and Shenmue hold a special place in the hearts of gamers who grew up with these iconic series. The announcement of remakes and HD versions is not just a nod to nostalgia but a recognition of the enduring appeal and influence these games have had on the industry.
Baldur’s Gate, originally released in 1998, set a new standard for role-playing games (RPGs) with its deep storytelling, complex characters, and intricate gameplay mechanics. The Enhanced Editions of Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2 aim to bring these classic experiences to a new generation of gamers while also providing long-time fans with updated graphics and improved gameplay. The success of these remakes could pave the way for the much-anticipated Baldur’s Gate 3, a project that Beamdog has expressed a strong desire to undertake.
The Role of Crowdfunding in Game Development
The mention of Kickstarter and Brian Fargo’s Wasteland 2 campaign highlights the growing importance of crowdfunding in the game development landscape. Crowdfunding platforms have democratized the funding process, allowing developers to gauge interest and secure financial backing directly from the gaming community. This model has proven successful for many projects, enabling the creation of games that might not have been possible through traditional funding avenues.
Brian Fargo’s Wasteland 2 campaign is a prime example of how crowdfunding can bring beloved franchises back to life. The original Wasteland, released in 1988, is considered a precursor to the Fallout series and has a dedicated fan base. Fargo’s successful Kickstarter campaign raised nearly $3 million, demonstrating the strong demand for a sequel and the willingness of fans to support its development.
Similarly, the potential for a Baldur’s Gate 3 project could benefit from a crowdfunding approach. By engaging directly with the community, Beamdog could not only secure the necessary funds but also involve fans in the development process, ensuring that the final product meets their expectations.
The resurgence of these classic franchises is a testament to their lasting impact on the gaming industry. As technology advances and new generations of gamers emerge, the timeless appeal of games like Baldur’s Gate and Shenmue continues to resonate. The Enhanced Editions and HD remakes serve as a bridge between the past and the future, preserving the legacy of these iconic titles while introducing them to a new audience.
The revival of beloved gaming franchises through remakes, HD versions, and potential sequels is an exciting development for the gaming community. The success of these projects hinges on the dedication of developers, the support of fans, and the innovative use of crowdfunding platforms. As we look forward to the possibility of Baldur’s Gate 3 and other long-awaited titles, it’s clear that the magic of these classic games is far from fading. Instead, they are poised to inspire and captivate gamers for years to come.
Source GameSpy
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