The Friday letters page debates which game counts as Rare's best, as one reader explains why he sold his Xbox Series X console. Readers also criticise the GTA 6 Collector's Edition and share concerns about corporate priorities in the gaming industry.
Rare's Best Game
Reader Cranston reflects on Rare's legacy, noting that while his N64 memories are positive, the old games have not aged well. He says GoldenEye 007 was his favourite but the magic is gone even in the Nintendo Switch Online version. He suggests Sea Of Thieves might be their best game but instead picks Blast Corps as the one that remains fun today.
Another reader, Nick the Greek, recalls Diddy Kong Racing as better than Mario Kart 64 and asks why Microsoft hasn't made sequels to classics like GoldenEye, Conker's Bad Fur Day, or Diddy Kong Racing 2. He is corrected that the first open world racer is widely agreed to be 1986's Turbo Esprit on the ZX Spectrum.
GTA 6 Collector's Edition Criticism
Reader Kent calls the GTA 6 Collector's Edition "the biggest load of worthless rubbish I have ever seen," noting the £350 price tag and items like a spoon, keychain, and sticker pack. He says the alligator figure looks cheaper than an amiibo, and the map used to come free with games. GameCentral responds that the spoon is for "very specific uses" but agrees it seems expensive.
Xbox Series X Sold
Reader Simundo explains he sold his Xbox Series X to CeX for £364 cash, only £116 less than he paid. He describes the end of a 25-year period owning Xbox hardware, citing struggles with first party software and the restructuring of the company. He plans to choose between a PlayStation 6 or PC paired with a Nintendo console going forward.
Reader PjDonnelli comments on the difference between Japanese and US corporate law, suggesting that US companies are forced to prioritise shareholders over long-term investment. GameCentral notes that the legal obligation to maximise profits is somewhat of an urban legend, but no publisher executive has spoken out against the issue.
