Is It Just the Hype? 3 Games That Didn't Live Up to Teasers

Teasers are meant to captivate, so don’t feel bad if you feel enticed to purchase a game right after you see its trailer. If it's fully animated, just be aware it’s not the actual gameplay footage. It’s a different story if the trailer showcases in-game action.

Regardless, a well-crafted trailer can generate immense excitement in the community, setting the stage for a game's release with high expectations. However, not all games manage to fulfill those promises. Let’s dive into a few examples.

Cyberpunk 2077: The neon light that dimmed upon release. 

From Xbox Official GIPHY

Initially announced in 2013, the game’s trailer promised an expansive, futuristic world filled with immersive gameplay and breathtaking graphics. It seemed like a surefire hit, developed by CD PROJEKT RED, the same studio that created Witcher 3.

The trailer showcased a vibrant city teeming with an edgy populace, decked out with all sorts of futuristic gadgets, a world brimming with possibilities. However, upon release, players encountered T-posing NPCs, a plethora of bugs, and performance issues even on high-end PCs. The discrepancy between the polished trailers and the glitch-ridden game led to widespread disappointment and a significant backlash from the gaming community.

Dead Island: A paradise lost

Dead Island’s teaser trailer is remembered as one of the most emotionally impactful in gaming. It utilizes a unique take on storytelling with a family of three. The haunting reverse sequence of a family’s tragic fate set in a tropical paradise hinted at a deep, narrative-driven experience. 

However, the actual game diverged into something different. At the same time, it offered an entertaining zombie-slaying adventure; the emotional depth that the trailer provided wasn’t there. Players felt misled, having expected a game with a much more profound narrative rather than a straightforward action game. At least they included the family in the trailer as characters you encounter in the game; that's a small consolation.

An overpromised universe: No Man’s Sky

From Xbox Official GIPHY

No Man’s Sky, more like, ‘Man, there’s not much here.’ This game aimed to deliver an unprecedented universe for its players to explore. Trailers promised an endless array of unique planets, teeming with things to discover and the ability to interact with other players in an online experience. 

However, the launch version of the game fell short of these promises. Many features showcased in the trailers needed to be included or severely limited, leading to a significant backlash. Although the developers have since made substantial updates to improve the game, the initial release remains a cautionary tale of overpromising and underdelivering.

Beyond the hype

These examples illustrate the power of marketing in shaping our expectations and the potential pitfalls of relying solely on trailers. While trailers are designed to captivate and excite, they don't always reflect the final product. 

Gamers must do their homework before getting swept up in the hype. Look for gameplay footage, read reviews, and wait for post-release feedback to get a more accurate picture of what to expect. The same can be expected when purchasing smart devices. If you do not know where to look, you can always visit the Next Upgrade Shop to see the latest and greatest gadgets available at the best prices!