Not every video game has a smooth debut. Some releases stumble out of the gate with bugs, missing features, or half-baked gameplay, only to surprise everyone later with dramatic improvements. These redemption arcs show how persistence, community feedback, and post-launch support can turn disappointment into success. The most famous example is Cyberpunk 2077. When it launched, it was complete with bugs and T shaped NPC’s that fell from the sky. Now, after the myriad of updates, Cyberpunk 2077 is in a great place and deserves a second look from everybody.
(photo: Projekt Red)
No Man’s Sky is perhaps the next famous example. When it released in 2016, players were frustrated by its lack of promised features like meaningful multiplayer, diverse ecosystems, and expansive exploration options. Final Fantasy XIV suffered a disastrous launch in 2010, riddled with clunky mechanics and performance issues that nearly killed the MMO outright. Square Enix took the bold step of scrapping the original version and relaunching it in 2013 as Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn.
(photo: Hello Games)
Did you play those games at launch? Share your thoughts and leave a comment down below!