The Monday letters page questions the enduring popularity of Final Fantasy 7, worries about the Zelda live-action movie, and looks ahead to Take-Two's post-GTA 6 era.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Revelation
One reader expresses excitement about Final Fantasy 7 Revelation being shown at Gamescom Opening Night Live but notes a general lack of hype for the game and the remake trilogy. They argue that the remake is excellent and one of the best Japanese role-players of all time, regardless of its connection to the original. However, they believe the original game's age (30 years next year) may be holding back new players, as few will enjoy the dated PS1 or PC versions. They conclude that Final Fantasy 7's days as the most popular JRPG are behind it, but the first two remakes are great games anyone can enjoy, and they expect the third to be too.
Yachts for Everyone
Another reader, only moderately interested in GTA 6, is more curious about what Take-Two will do after its release. They hope the company will invest even 1% of its profits into new games, noting that 1% of GTA 6's profits is nearly infinite. They mention that Take-Two has 29 games in development, hopefully including Bioshock 4. While they worry GTA 6 might be too big, they remain optimistic that its success could fund future projects without financial risk.
GC responds that Take-Two has made similar claims before, and they suspect the count includes Zynga titles or multiple versions of the same game.
No Way Out for BioWare
Agreeing with a Reader's Feature about Mass Effect and BioWare needing to leave EA, another reader doubts it will happen. They point to Double Fine's struggles after leaving Microsoft, suggesting BioWare would face similar difficulties and lack the budget for Mass Effect. They believe the only chance for a new Mass Effect is if BioWare stays with EA, but that chance is slim.
Public Demand for Digital
Regarding Sony's all-digital shift, a reader argues that the company is responding to consumer behavior, noting that 85% of sales are digital. They see this as a natural progression and advocate for moving to streaming from a central supercomputer, calling for an end to households owning powerful tech.
Fight the Future
Another reader hopes Nintendo names its next console Phoenix, reinventing console gaming as they did with NES and Wii. They believe mandatory streaming is inevitable but not yet the future.
Catching Up
Noting that the Xbox Series S is now almost the same price as the Xbox Series X at launch, a reader questions its purpose as a budget option. They suggest bundling games like Forza Horizon and Halo to boost sales before GTA 6 arrives, criticizing Microsoft's lack of contingency plans.
They also agree with a letter about Assassin's Creed and the Roman Empire, hoping Ubisoft explores that era for limitless possibilities.
Blu Movies
A reader wonders if Sony ending Blu-ray discs for games would force Xbox to do the same, since Sony co-developed Blu-ray. GC clarifies that Blu-ray is used for many purposes, including movies, and Sony only stopped making discs for PlayStation 5.
Legendary Reputation
Concerned about the Zelda live-action film, a reader argues that its success depends on the script, which they doubt given the writer of Pacific Rim Uprising. They fear Nintendo will have three critically mauled movies in a row, damaging its reputation even if profitable.
Inbox Also-Rans
Other readers comment on Sony not sending review copies of Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls, likely due to PC issues, and the 10-year anniversary of Super Mario Odyssey with no new game in sight.
