In the bustling video game scene of the 90s, many promising projects were announced, only to be cancelled before they ever saw the light of day. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 cancelled video game projects of the 90s, highlighting the reasons why they continue to be remembered and mourned by fans to this day.
- Sonic X-Treme (Sega Saturn)
Planned to be the first 3D mainline Sonic the Hedgehog game, Sonic X-Treme was cancelled due to a series of development issues. Despite its promise to bring Sonic into the three-dimensional world, constant delays and technical problems led to the project’s cancellation, leaving Sega fans disappointed.
- Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic III (Various Consoles)
The highly anticipated sequel to Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords was cancelled when the original developer, Obsidian Entertainment, lost the franchise rights. Fans were disappointed they couldn’t continue the epic saga that began in the previous games.
- Earthbound 64 (Nintendo 64)
An ambitious project aimed at bringing the beloved Earthbound series into the 3D realm, Earthbound 64 was cancelled due to technical difficulties and development issues. Fans of the series were disappointed they couldn’t see how the franchise could have evolved in a new format.
- Mega Man Legends 3 (Nintendo 64, Nintendo 3DS)
Announced as the next chapter in the Mega Man Legends series, the game was cancelled due to financial issues at Capcom. Fans were frustrated they couldn’t see the conclusion of the story and the continuation of the adventures of the popular blue robot.
- Project Dream (Nintendo 64)
Developed by Rare, the same studio behind Banjo-Kazooie and Donkey Kong Country, Project Dream was an RPG that eventually evolved into the game Banjo-Kazooie. However, many fans were curious about what the original game would have been like and lament its never being released.
- Dinosaur Planet (Nintendo 64)
Initially conceived as a standalone game, Dinosaur Planet was later reworked as a Star Fox game. However, the change in direction led to various content cuts and development issues, resulting in the project’s cancellation. Fans were intrigued by the original concept and mourn its loss.
- Resident Evil 1.5 (PlayStation)
Originally conceived as the sequel to Resident Evil, the game was cancelled during development due to creative differences and technical issues. Although Resident Evil 2 was released as its replacement, many fans still mourn what could have been with Resident Evil 1.5.
- The Dreamcast Shenmue Sequels (Dreamcast)
Following the release of Shenmue for the Dreamcast, plans for multiple sequels were cancelled due to the prohibitive cost of development and the low installed base of the console. Fans of the series were disappointed they couldn’t continue Ryo Hazuki’s journey of revenge.
- Thrill Kill (PlayStation)
Originally planned as an ultraviolent fighting game for the PlayStation, Thrill Kill was cancelled due to its controversial content and pressure from consumer advocacy groups. Despite never officially being released, the game gained cult status among collectors.
- Mighty No. 9 (Various Consoles)
Despite being released after a successful crowdfunding campaign, Mighty No. 9 was widely considered a disappointment due to quality issues and lack of polish. Many fans mourn what could have been the spiritual successor to the Mega Man series.
These 10 cancelled video game projects of the 90s represent an important part of gaming history, showcasing the highs and lows of the industry. While they never saw the light of day, they continue to be remembered and discussed by fans as examples of unrealized potential and missed opportunities.
