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Prequels in cinema often have a mixed reputation. Some enhance the original stories, like <em>X-Men: First Class</em>, while others, like <em>Hannibal Rising</em>, diminish their intrigue. Some, such as the Star Wars prequel trilogy, spark debate among fans. However, in the gaming world, prequels generally enjoy a more favorable reception. A prime example is the newly launched <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/mafia-the-old-country-review">Mafia: The Old Country</a>, which explores the formative years of criminal empires in the early 1900s.
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Many prequel games benefit from advancements in technology and development tools, resulting in better visuals and gameplay compared to their predecessors. Truly exceptional prequels are remembered not just for their aesthetics or mechanics, but for how they enhance our experience of the original games, enriching beloved stories and characters.
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The prequels discussed below were selected not solely for their gameplay and technical accomplishments, but for their transformative impact on our perception of cherished characters and universes. This depth of development means some titles on this list are even regarded as the best within their respective series. Here are the ten best video game prequels ever created.
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<h2>The Best Video Game Prequels of All Time</h2>
<h2>10. Batman: Arkham Origins</h2>
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Released to bridge the gap between Rocksteady’s <em>Arkham City</em> and <em>Arkham Knight</em>, <a href="https://www.ign.com/games/batman-arkham-origins">Batman: Arkham Origins</a> is set during Christmas eight years before the first game. Featuring a younger Batman facing off against eight assassins sent by Black Mask, it also serves as The Joker's origin story. Despite being compared unfavorably to <em>Arkham City</em>, <em>Arkham Origins</em> stands out as a worthy addition that explores the early narratives of Batman and Joker.
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<h2>9. God of War: Chains of Olympus</h2>
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<a href="https://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus">God of War: Chains of Olympus</a> may be a handheld title, but its narrative matches the scale of the original trilogy. This prequel dives into Kratos' early journey, revealing how his hatred for the Gods began. Ready at Dawn's technical prowess allowed for stunning visuals and responsive gameplay on the PSP, making this a noteworthy chapter in Kratos’ saga.
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<h2>8. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island</h2>
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Following <em>Super Mario World</em>, <a href="https://www.ign.com/games/super-mario-world-2-yoshis-island">Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island</a> tells the charming story of Yoshi rescuing Baby Mario. Nintendo designed this game to be gentler and more exploratory, eliminating time limits and introducing unique mechanics for Yoshi, making it a standout platformer visually and gameplay-wise during the SNES era.
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<h2>7. Divinity: Original Sin</h2>
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<a href="https://www.ign.com/games/divinity-original-sin">Divinity: Original Sin</a> serves as a prequel to the series, set over a thousand years before <em>Divine Divinity</em>. It delves into Rivellon's early history and sets up critical elements of the lore while revolutionizing the RPG genre with a unique turn-based combat system, paving the way for the series’ future successes.
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<h2>6. Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening</h2>
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<a href="https://www.ign.com/games/devil-may-cry-3-dantes-awakening">Devil May Cry 3</a> presents a younger version of Dante, reconnecting players with the character’s classic persona. This prequel explores Dante’s backstory and sibling tension with Vergil while offering challenging gameplay and innovative combat styles, making it a standout in the series.
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<h2>5. Halo: Reach</h2>
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Set just before the events of <em>Halo: Combat Evolved</em>, <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/09/12/halo-reach-review">Halo: Reach</a> introduces players to Noble Team, a unit fighting to protect the planet Reach from the Covenant. The game highlights the diverse personalities of characters outside of the iconic Master Chief and leads to pivotal moments that set the stage for the original Halo storyline.
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<h2>4. Yakuza 0</h2>
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Serving as a prequel to the Yakuza series, <a href="https://www.ign.com/games/yakuza-0">Yakuza 0</a> shares the story of Kazuma Kiryu and Majima Goro, focusing on a turf war among rival crime families. It captivates players with its rich narrative and offers insights into the characters' development that makes this prequel a perfect entry point for newcomers to the franchise.
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<h2>3. Deus Ex: Human Revolution</h2>
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With a take on transhumanism, <a href="https://www.ign.com/games/deus-ex-human-revolution">Deus Ex: Human Revolution</a> presents Adam Jensen's journey following a life-altering incident. The game examines cultural and ethical dilemmas surrounding augmentation, transitioning the narrative into a more serious territory while maintaining ties to the original series' themes.
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<h2>2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater</h2>
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<a href="https://www.ign.com/games/metal-gear-solid-3-snake-eater">Metal Gear Solid 3</a> serves as a prequel focused on Naked Snake, becoming a pivotal entry in both gameplay and narrative for the franchise. It transformed stealth mechanics with its jungle setting and presented foundational story elements that inform the overarching Metal Gear saga.
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<h2>1. Red Dead Redemption 2</h2>
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As a stunning follow-up to the original, <a href="https://www.ign.com/games/red-dead-redemption-2">Red Dead Redemption 2</a> immerses players in the fading Wild West, showcasing rich storytelling and detailed mechanics. Arthur Morgan's character arc, woven with themes of loyalty and downfall, makes this prequel a masterpiece that enhances the entire series’ lore.
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These selections highlight the best prequels in video gaming. What do you think? Share your own favorites in the comments!
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<em>Matt Kim is IGN's Senior Features Editor. Contributions from Matt Purslow and Simon Cardy.</em>
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