After the cinematic trailer failed to capture my interest, I was shocked at how interesting the new trailer for Game of Thrones: Kingsroad was. Focused primarily on gameplay, three character classes beat up enemies in under a minute. This focus on combat has me more interested in the game, though I’m not sure if it will get me interested in HBO’s prestige series.
Does that mean Kingsroad failed to be an entry point for newer fans? More importantly, should these licensed games act as gateways for gamers to check out the licensed material?
The answer should be yes, but these licensed games don’t always make that goal easy. Half of the time, they expect gamers to be fans of the show so they can pop for the cameos in these products. Some titles properly introduce fans to the franchise, usually roping them in with good gameplay.
Marvel Rivals is the most obvious example of this. Because of this superhero shooter, fans know the existence of obscure heroes like Luna Snow, Squirrel Girl, and Jeff the Shark. There have also been reports of comics selling out after the game’s release, another reason fans hold this multiplayer shooter in high regard.
CyberConnect2’s Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm licensed games are also praised for their accessibility. This series told the anime’s Shippudden story through Ninja Storms 2, 3, and 4. Gamers who didn’t watch the anime would understand the story perfectly. It also helps that the game has a solid battle system that’s simple to learn and amazing to watch, thanks to those Ultimate Jutsu attacks.
We wish the One Piece games had a similar accessibility rate, but they usually expect fans to be knowledgeable to a large extent. The closest games that recap this juggernaut-sized manga are Koei Tecmo’s Pirate Warriors games, but they skip certain arcs in favor of that addictive Musou gameplay. Maybe things will change when the manga ends, but that isn’t happening yet.
Game of Thrones: Kingsroad could be a decent hack-and-slash licensed game, but knowledge of the series is expected based on the previous trailer. Fans might not mind if the combat feels good, but we doubt this will make them want to watch the show. Then again, should new fans even try this series after that rancid ending and the books not being completed?
Players might enjoy the licensed game if its gameplay is quality and accessible, but that might be despite what’s being advertised. The best Wolverine video game is X-Men: Origins Wolverine, and we would never recommend that movie to our worst enemy. Similarly, the Green Lantern licensed game is a decent God of War clone, but that film is mediocre.
In the end, sales will determine how a licensed game does. My Hero One’s Justice isn’t a great entry point for new fans, but the arena fighting was quality enough to get it a sequel. These games will continue to be made, whether they make new fans or draw in the ones who already love these franchises.
Still, everyone involved will benefit if the licensed game sells well and attracts new fans.