In the realm of gaming, prequels often have a special place in our hearts, unlike their movie counterparts that can sometimes leave us scratching our heads. You know the drill: some prequels enhance the narrative beautifully, while others can make a mess of things. But when it comes to video games, prequels frequently hit the mark, providing us with thrilling backstories and deeper character development. As we dive into 2025, let’s take a look at the ten best video game prequels that have not only captivated players but have also reshaped the way we view our beloved franchises.
Kickstarting our list is Batman: Arkham Origins, developed by WB Games Montreal and released in 2013. Set on a fateful Christmas night, this prequel takes us back eight years before the iconic events of the first game. Here, we meet a younger, less experienced Batman, who finds himself up against eight lethal assassins, all hired by Black Mask to take him down for a whopping $50 million. This game serves as a brilliant origin story for the Joker, unveiling his chaotic nature to Gotham for the first time. While it faced some harsh comparisons to Arkham City, it stands as a vital piece of the Arkham universe, introducing elements that would come to play significant roles in later installments.
Next up is God of War: Chains of Olympus, a stunning entry from Ready at Dawn for the PSP, released in 2008. This game perfectly encapsulates the essence of Kratos’ journey, taking him to the depths of The Underworld. It not only lays the groundwork for his enduring hatred of the Gods but showcases the potential of handheld gaming. The graphics were impressive for the time, and the gameplay was just as exhilarating, making it a must-play for fans of the franchise.
Then we have Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island, released by Nintendo in 1995. This game is a delightful prequel that takes us on a whimsical journey through Yoshi’s adventures to rescue Baby Mario. With its charming art style and innovative gameplay mechanics, Yoshi’s Island became a hallmark of 2D platform gaming. Nintendo aimed for a more relaxed experience, allowing players to explore at their own pace, which was a departure from the more frantic pace of previous Mario titles.
Fast forward to 2014, and we have Divinity: Original Sin from Larian Studios. Taking place over a thousand years before Divine Divinity, this RPG delves into the rich lore of Rivellon. While it doesn’t set the foundation for the series, it brilliantly showcases the dangers of Source magic and introduces characters that fans would grow to love. Its innovative turn-based combat system and the freedom to approach quests creatively paved the way for future titles, including the critically acclaimed Original Sin 2.
Another gem is Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening, which took players back to Dante’s younger days when he was still the cocky hero fans adored. Released in 2005 by Capcom, this prequel reversed the damage done by its predecessor, offering a fresh take on Dante’s character and an engaging storyline that intertwined with the franchise’s future. The game’s difficulty level became legendary, and the introduction of various combat styles added depth to the already thrilling gameplay.
As we explore the 2010 release Halo: Reach from Bungie, we step into a pivotal moment in the Halo franchise. Set just before the events of Halo: Combat Evolved, this game offers a gripping tale of Noble Team, a group of Spartans on a doomed mission to save the planet Reach. This prequel not only provides a unique perspective on the Halo universe but also showcases the sacrifices made by those who fought before Master Chief’s legendary journey began.
Moving on to 2017, Yakuza 0 from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio reintroduced players to the criminal underworld with a fresh narrative. Set nearly two decades before the original game, it follows the young Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima as they navigate a turf war sparked by a seemingly insignificant plot of land. This prequel serves as an excellent entry point for newcomers, offering a captivating story and a deeper understanding of the characters’ evolution.
Another notable mention is Deus Ex: Human Revolution, released by Eidos Montreal in 2011. This game dives deep into the ethical dilemmas of transhumanism, following Adam Jensen, whose life is forever altered after a brutal attack. As he grapples with his new mechanical enhancements, players are thrust into a world rife with societal tensions surrounding augmentation, making it a thought-provoking addition to the series.
Then there’s Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, which takes us back to the origin of Big Boss. Released in 2004, this prequel revolutionized stealth gameplay by placing players in a vast jungle environment. It not only set the stage for everything that followed in the series but also introduced themes of betrayal and sacrifice that would resonate throughout the franchise.
Finally, let’s not forget the majestic Red Dead Redemption 2, which hit the shelves in 2018. Rockstar’s masterpiece takes full advantage of modern hardware, offering a breathtaking open world and a deeply emotional narrative. Following Arthur Morgan’s journey as he grapples with his place in a rapidly changing world, this prequel beautifully ties into the original game while expanding the mythos of the Wild West.
As we wrap up our list of the top video game prequels, it’s clear that these titles not only enhanced their respective series but also left a lasting impact on players around the globe. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a casual player, these prequels offer rich stories and unforgettable experiences that continue to resonate in 2025. Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
