Left 4 Dead sounded appealing when I first heard about the concept. I was skeptical of its longevity, but Valve’s track record for supporting games with meaningful content long after release (like TF2) convinced me to get the game ASAP. I loved it instantly, no regrets, even if they did put it on 50% sale several times some months afterward. They made quite a few patches, added some modes., etc. Things were on track. I was really looking forward to the next “big update”, you know, like Valve’s big updates to TF2.
It turns out, the next “big update” is a sequel.
Sequels are great, and I have no doubts that when Valve decides to make a sequel, they’ll make it a good one. It’s just frustrating, however, to buy into a game with the intent on playing it for the next 3 years or so, only to be supplanted in a few months. Doubly annoying since the improvements in the sequel basically invalidates owning the first game. I wouldn’t have minded as much if this was an add-on, but it’s a sequel, intended to be mechanically and technically superior. Aesthetics and charm/nostalgia aside, why would anyone bother to support the old one? The old game is essentially left 4 dead (pun intended).
It”s no surprise that quite a lot of fans are upset. Hell, I’m upset! Even if I discard my attachment to Bill, Louis, Francis, and Zoey I still feel a little… “mislead”. It’s strange that I’d feel cheated over something Valve has every right to do, but that’s how I feel right now.
I still believe that Valve has the best interests of it’s customers in mind. If a sequel so soon is the only way to provide the best co-op zombie experience, then so be it. [update] If Doug Lombardi’s words turn true, then it might just be worth it. I mean, Valve has made good gameplay decisions so far, haven’t they?
Still… it better be a damned good sequel!
SOURCES:
- Steam News via Gamasutra
- [Gamasutra] E3: Valve Talks Left 4 Dead 2′s Quick Sequel Strategy
- [Neowin] Left 4 Dead gamers angry at Valve for sequel
- [Rock, Paper, Shotgun] Valve On L4D2: “Trust Us A Little Bit”
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