Assessment of Franchise Bests: Red Alert 2, Halo 2, Castlevania: SOTN, and Suikoden 2 vs. Battlefield 3

Introduction

When it comes to gaming, a fundamental question often arises: which game in a franchise truly stands out as the best? Over the years, countless titles have made their mark in various genres, from Grand Strategy, First-Person Shooters (FPS), to Action-Adventure. In this article, we delve into the debate surrounding the best game in renowned franchises such as Red Alert 2, Halo 2, Castlevania: SOTN (Symphony of the Night), and Suikoden 2, and explore why I, a seasoned gamer, believe otherwise. Additionally, we will contrast these with Battlefield 3, a franchise that, in my opinion, has set the bar high in the world of multiplayer FPS.

The Best in Their Respective Franchises

Games within franchises often have unique qualities that make them stand out. For instance, Red Alert 2 and Halo 2 are widely acknowledged as pinnacle moments in their series. Red Alert 2 brings a unique blend of base building and strategic conquest, while Halo 2 revolutionized the FPS genre with its Bungie-crafted campaign. However, when it comes to personal favorites, my tastes diverge from the mainstream.

Red Alert 2 and My Perspective

When it comes to the Red Alert franchise, I prefer the original Red Alert 2 over the more recent entries. While many gamers cite Red Alert 3 as a classic, the refreshing twist on real-time strategy (RTS) gameplay of the original Red Alert 2 is something I still appreciate. Its balanced factions, detailed campaign missions, and seamless blend of real-time battles and strategic planning resonate with me more than any other entry in the series.

Halo 2 and the FPS Genre

Similarly, in the Halo franchise, Halo 2 undoubtedly revolutionized the FPS genre. With its immersive storylines, well-rounded characters, and adrenaline-pumping multiplayer modes, it set a benchmark for future games in the series. However, the original Halo game, often overshadowed by its sequels, still holds a special place in my heart. The tight controls, the satisfaction of detonating a Flood, and the haunting narratives of the campaign are all elements that stand out to me as the purest form of the franchise.

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (SOTN)

In the Castlevania series, Symphony of the Night (SOTN) is often praised as the definitive entry. However, I have a different view. Despite its difficult levels and iconic transition to a 3D perspective, I find that Dracula's Curse offers a more engaging experience. It brings a fresh take on the action-adventure gameplay, intricate combat mechanics, and a more dynamic story. The ability to unlock different endings based on enemy choice and weapon usage adds a layer of depth that the original SOTN lacks.

Suikoden 2

The Suikoden series is another one where personal favorites vary. While Suikoden 2 is often highlighted for its deep strategic elements and engaging story, I find Suikoden, the first game in the series, more compelling. Its rich story, balanced factions, and impactful narrative choices make it a standout in the genre of grand strategy games. The multiplayer mode in Suikoden 2, while well-executed, seems to lack the same charm and depth as its predecessor.

Enter Battlefield 3: The Multiplayer FPS King

While the aforementioned games are celebrated for their unique qualities and contributions to their respective genres, I place a higher value on Battlefield 3 as the pinnacle of the multiplayer FPS genre. The Battlefield franchise is renowned for its destructible environments, combined arms gameplay, and large-scale multiplayer battles. Battlefield 3 refines these elements, offering:

Destructible Environments: This feature is one of the franchise's most iconic elements, allowing players to sightly destroy their surroundings, which adds a unique level of strategy to every battle. Amazing Graphics: Thanks to the Frostbite engine, the game delivers stunning visuals that transport players into a meticulously crafted battlefield. Compelling Storyline: The campaign mode present in Battlefield 3 is highly engaging, with character development and plot twists that keep the player invested in the narrative. Varied and Interesting Map Design: The game offers a variety of maps from places such as the industrial meat grinder of Metro to the vast, open landscape of Caspian Border, providing a diverse range of combat scenarios. Gun Classes and Customization: The weapon variety and customization options in Battlefield 3 are applauded by the playerbase, allowing for personalized gameplay strategies. Crazy Stuff: The game is filled with unexpected and thrilling moments, making every match unique and memorable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are standout games in every franchise that are often the benchmarks, my personal preferences lean towards unique and personal favorites. Whether it's Red Alert 2 in the grand strategy genre, the original Halo in the FPS genre, Dracula's Curse in the Castlevania series, or Suikoden in the grand strategy genre, these games hold a special place in my heart for various reasons. However, it is the Battlefield 3 that stands out as a shining example of what a multiplayer FPS game can achieve, setting new standards in the field. In the ever-evolving landscape of gaming, it's fascinating to see how different players hold different views, and the diversity of opinions adds to the richness of our gaming community.