Unpopular Gems: True Crime: Streets of LA and Days Gone

Introduction

In the vast world of gaming, there are titles that often stand out for their innovative gameplay, captivating narratives, or stunning graphics. However, not every game that deserves recognition receives it. Occasionally, hidden gems emerge, beloved by a select few while remaining underrated by the gaming community at large. In a recent Reddit discussion on the r/gaming subreddit, user u/LunaWhisper_ asked fellow gamers about their favorite games that most people disliked. Two titles that generated considerable attention were "True Crime: Streets of LA" and "Days Gone." In this article, we'll delve into why these games hold a special place in the hearts of some gamers, despite not receiving widespread acclaim.

True Crime: Streets of LA - A Love or Hate Affair

User u/LunaWhisper_ kicked off the discussion by reminiscing about "True Crime: Streets of LA." This game, released in 2003, was indeed a polarizing experience. Some players, like LunaWhisper_, absolutely loved it. The game's appeal lay in its branching narrative, where your choices in missions influenced the storyline's direction. The martial arts combat was also a standout feature, offering players a unique fighting experience. However, not all aspects of the game received equal praise, with gun combat being criticized for feeling somewhat lackluster.

Several comments in the Reddit thread echoed these sentiments. User u/M1ssmessy expressed a fondness for "Arkham Origins," emphasizing its Christmas-themed setting and the innovative vigilante system. They even mentioned being a devoted Batman fan.

User u/Goose_withknife chimed in, highlighting the game's exceptional boss fights, which they considered superior to those in other titles in the Arkham series.

User u/p4ul1023 praised the epic battle against Deathstroke, asserting it was the best in the entire series. They also commended the voice acting by Roger Craig Smith and Troy Baker.

In a nod to the game's excellence, user u/Putrid_Loquat_4357 added that Mr. Freeze's encounter was a standout moment in the series.

Arkham Origins - A Dark Knight Triumph

The discussion about "Arkham Origins" continued with users sharing their own experiences. User u/M1ssmessy celebrated the game's stunning snowy environment, emphasizing the visual beauty and the quality of voice acting.

User u/joman394 brought up the multiplayer aspect, which allowed players to step into the shoes of iconic characters like Bane and Joker. However, they lamented the game's technical issues and glitches.

User u/welestgw shared their perspective, asserting that "Arkham Origins" wasn't truly hated but merely considered not as good as the other titles in the series. They ranked it as their second favorite, after "Arkham City."

User u/Skitzofreniq explained that the game initially received criticism due to a troubled PC release but argued that it played just as well as other Arkham games once these issues were resolved.

Despite these positive sentiments, user u/Slith_81 expressed frustration that "Arkham Origins" often gets overlooked in compilation releases, especially considering it's the only game in the series still locked to the previous generation of consoles.

In essence, "Arkham Origins" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Batman franchise and the unique experiences it offers to fans.

Days Gone - A Post-Apocalyptic Thrill Ride

Shifting gears from the caped crusader to a post-apocalyptic world, user u/m0bscenity brought up "Days Gone." This game, despite receiving mixed reviews, found a dedicated fan base.

User u/Super-Bleeder427 mentioned picking up "Days Gone" when it became free on PlayStation Plus and found it to be one of their all-time favorite games.

User u/buddy-thunder expressed their deep appreciation for the game's story and gameplay, questioning why it received so much criticism. They drew parallels to the current "Starfield" controversy, where some players are quick to judge a game without trying it.

User u/SQUIGIES offered a more balanced perspective, acknowledging that "Days Gone" had its merits, such as impressive zombie hordes and an engaging open-world experience. However, they also pointed out flaws, including a mediocre story and the protagonist's tendency to talk to himself throughout the game.

Ultimately, "Days Gone" serves as a testament to the diversity of opinions in the gaming community and the fact that even titles with mixed receptions can hold a special place in the hearts of certain players.

Conclusion

In the world of gaming, there are titles that, while not universally acclaimed, manage to forge a deep connection with a dedicated fan base. "True Crime: Streets of LA" and "Days Gone" are prime examples of such games. Despite receiving their fair share of criticism, these titles have left an indelible mark on the gamers who appreciated their unique qualities. In a medium where innovation and creativity thrive, it's essential to remember that every game has the potential to be someone's favorite, even if it doesn't achieve mainstream success. So, the next time you come across a game that didn't receive widespread praise, consider giving it a chance – you might just discover your own hidden gem in the world of gaming.

What's a video game you enjoyed that most people disliked?
byu/LunaWhisper_ ingaming