In the latest Games Inbox, readers discuss PlayStation's lack of iconic characters, with many pointing to Lara Croft and Crash Bandicoot as the unofficial mascots of the PS1 era. One reader, Kaliban, notes that Sony missed the chance to own these characters, and despite newer figures like Kratos and Aloy, neither feels as iconic. The reader hopes the upcoming Lara Croft remake is a hit.
Crash Bandicoot's Ownership History
GameCentral responds that acquiring Crash Bandicoot was never easy, as it came with Blizzard and later went to Microsoft with Activision. The discussion highlights how these characters remain the most associated with PlayStation despite newer offerings.
Hogwarts Legacy 2 and GTA 6 Online
Another reader, Scuz, expresses excitement for Hogwarts Legacy 2, suggesting a modern-day setting just before Harry Potter arrives. Meanwhile, David raises concerns about potential online fees for GTA 6, warning that if Rockstar charges for online play, other developers like Call of Duty might follow suit.
Lego Games and Development Times
Wotan comments on the increased development time for Lego games, noting they've gone from annual releases to one every four years. This shift reflects broader industry trends, with games taking longer and becoming major events.
Sony's Approach to Beloved Characters
Fisto criticizes Sony's strategy of investing millions to create beloved characters, pointing out that Ratchet & Clank, Astro Bot, and Sack Boy lack distinctiveness. He suggests Sony should focus on family-friendly games as it did in the PS1 and PS2 era.
Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave and Nintendo's Strategy
Karl discusses the positive reception of Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, noting it may be a much-needed win for Nintendo given mixed responses to other titles. He speculates on Nintendo's odd choices, attributing them to development times and asset reuse.
Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls and Warner Bros. Pillars
Sales Marvel predicts Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls will underperform, continuing the Marvel curse in gaming. Winston criticizes Warner Bros.' handling of its four pillars, with Harry Potter being the only success, while Mortal Kombat, DC Comics, and Game Of Thrones have seen little progress.
