Exploring the Top Video Game Prequels That Reshaped Their Series

Video games prequels often serve a unique role—they offer a deeper look into characters’ origins, expand the universe, or set the stage for events that fans have only glimpsed before. Unlike movies, where prequels sometimes stumble or disappoint, the best video game prequels manage to elevate their series, offering fresh insights while respecting the foundations laid by their predecessors. They leverage advances in technology, storytelling, and gameplay mechanics to create experiences that resonate with players, deepen their understanding of beloved characters, and often stand tall within their franchises.

This article will explore a selection of the best video game prequels, games that not only push technical boundaries but also redefine how we engage with their worlds. These titles are chosen based on their ability to contribute meaningfully to their series’ lore, their impact on gameplay design, and how they’ve influenced players’ perceptions of the original stories. Throughout, the phrase ‘Best Video Game Prequels’ will be woven into the narrative to emphasize their significance, with the aim of offering a detailed, engaging look at what makes a prequel truly memorable.

The Significance of the Best Video Game Prequels

Prequels in gaming often serve several purposes: they fill in backstories, explore untold events, or introduce new characters who will shape the series’ future. When well-crafted, these prequels do more than just expand the lore—they alter the way players perceive the original titles, deepen emotional connections, and sometimes even redefine a franchise’s direction.

The best video game prequels capitalize on technological advancements, allowing for more detailed worlds, richer storytelling, and complex character development. They often revisit familiar settings with fresh perspectives, providing fans and newcomers alike a chance to experience the origins firsthand. These games demonstrate that prequels can be more than mere side stories—they can be pivotal entries that stand alongside or even surpass their predecessors.

10. Batman: Arkham Origins — A Younger Caped Crusader

Developer: WB Games Montreal | Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment | Platform: PS3, Xbox 360, Wii U, PC | Release date: October 25, 2013

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Batman: Arkham Origins offers a glimpse into Batman’s early days of fighting crime, set during his second year of vigilantism. The game takes place on Christmas night, eight years before the events of Arkham Asylum, giving players a chance to see a younger, less seasoned Batman face off against some of Gotham’s deadliest assassins, including Bane, Deadshot, and Deathstroke. These encounters are not just boss battles—they reveal the origins of the character’s methods and relationships that would develop over time.

Expanding the lore:
Arkham Origins dives into the formation of Batman’s network of allies and enemies. It introduces Black Mask’s plot to assassinate the Dark Knight for a hefty reward, and it’s here that the character of The Joker begins to carve his chaotic path into Gotham’s underbelly. The game also explores the early relationship between Batman and Alfred Pennyworth, as well as the first hints of Jim Gordon’s rise within the Gotham City Police Department.

Gameplay and technological improvements:
Thanks to advancements in game development, Arkham Origins boasts improved visuals and combat mechanics, creating a more visceral experience. The game’s open-world design and stealth systems allow for creative approaches to combat and infiltration, reflecting Batman’s resourcefulness. Although it faced comparisons to Arkham City, Arkham Origins offers its own unique flavor, emphasizing a gritty, noir tone that underscores Batman’s vulnerability and determination.

Impact on the series:
By illustrating Batman’s early years, Arkham Origins helps reshape how players see the Dark Knight’s evolution. It sets the stage for understanding his relationships with key villains and allies, enriching the narrative fabric of the series. The game’s portrayal of a less experienced Batman adds depth, reminding players that even the most iconic heroes are works in progress.

9. God of War: Chains of Olympus — Kratos’ Greek Origins

Developer: Ready at Dawn | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Platform: PSP | Release date: March 4, 2008

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Despite being a handheld game, God of War: Chains of Olympus delivers a story-rich experience that matches the scale of its console counterparts. It takes players into the depths of Greek myth, charting Kratos’ journey before the events of the original God of War. The game explores his early struggles with the gods, his motivations, and the origins of his relentless vengeance.

Story and lore:
Chains of Olympus is set during a period when Kratos is serving the gods and battling mythical monsters. The story revolves around his quest to save the world from the wrath of Ares, the god of war, and provides context for his disdain for the divine. It reveals how Kratos’ tragic past and his pact with Ares shape his unyielding quest for redemption and revenge.

Technical achievements:
The game’s visual design pushes the limits of the PSP hardware, showcasing detailed environments and character models. The responsive combat system and fluid animations make the gameplay feel as exhilarating as the larger console titles, despite the device’s limitations. The game’s design demonstrates how a prequel can stand on its own merits, offering a compact, intense adventure that enriches the overall narrative of the franchise.

Legacy:
Chains of Olympus is more than just a prequel; it’s a vital chapter that adds layers to Kratos’ character development. It shows how a mortal warrior becomes the god-slayer, setting the tone for the brutal, mythological battles that follow.

8. Yoshi’s Island — The Origin of a Dinosaur Hero

Developer: Nintendo EAD | Publisher: Nintendo | Platform: SNES | Release date: October 4, 1995

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Yoshi’s Island is a charming prequel that explores how a group of Yoshis rescued Baby Mario, setting the stage for the adventures that would follow in the Mario universe. While not a traditional prequel in the storytelling sense, it provides insight into the origins of Yoshi’s friendship with Mario and the early days of their partnership.

Story and gameplay:
The game’s narrative centers around the Yoshis’ efforts to protect Baby Mario from Kamek, the Magikoopa, and to eventually reunite him with Baby Luigi. Its relaxed pacing and focus on exploration rather than strict timing make it accessible for players of all ages. The introduction of Yoshi’s unique abilities, like the flutter jump and tongue attack, set new standards for platforming mechanics.

Visual and audio design:
Yoshi’s Island features hand-drawn, painterly art that gives it a distinctive, timeless look. Koji Kondo’s soundtrack, especially the “Yoshi’s Island Theme,” has become iconic, capturing the whimsical spirit of the game. The art style and music contribute to its reputation as a masterpiece of visual and auditory design.

Legacy and influence:
More than just a nostalgic trip, Yoshi’s Island influenced future platformers with its focus on exploration, accessibility, and artistic style. It remains a benchmark for 2D platforming excellence and demonstrates how a prequel can serve as a love letter to fans while introducing new generations to a beloved universe.

7. Divinity: Original Sin — A Deep Dive into Rivellon’s Past

Developer: Larian Studios | Publisher: Larian Studios | Platform: PS3, Xbox 360, PC | Release date: June 30, 2014

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Divinity: Original Sin isn’t just a prequel; it’s a game that fundamentally changed perceptions of the series. Set over a thousand years before the original, it paints a picture of Rivellon’s early days—an era filled with magic, chaos, and the origins of Source. The game introduces players to younger versions of characters and factions that later become central to the franchise.

Story and setting:
While it doesn’t require prior knowledge, Original Sin offers a glimpse into the roots of the conflict between Source magic users and the world’s rulers. The game’s narrative explores themes of power, corruption, and rebellion, giving context to the events of the main series. It introduces players to the early struggles of Rivellon’s inhabitants and showcases how magic and politics intertwined centuries ago.

Gameplay innovations:
What makes the Best Video Game Prequels list is the game’s innovative combat system that emphasizes tactical flexibility. Combining elemental effects creates unpredictable and exciting combat scenarios—freeze a lake to create a barrier or electrify water to shock enemies. The RPG elements allow for multiple approaches to quests, encouraging experimentation and replayability. This strategic depth set a new standard for turn-based role-playing games.

Impact on the series:
Original Sin’s success paved the way for its sequel and influenced the design of Baldur’s Gate 3. It proved that a prequel could stand as a major entry in its own right, offering rich storytelling and gameplay depth that deepened fans’ understanding of the series’ world.

6. Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Youthful Days

Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Platform: PS2 | Release date: March 1, 2005

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Devil May Cry 3 acts as a prequel that restores Dante’s original cool persona while revealing his backstory and the origins of his rivalry with Vergil. Set several years before the first game, it offers insight into how the legendary demon hunter became the character players first met.

Story and character development:
The game explores Dante’s early days as a reckless, confident young man, and provides a detailed look at his relationship with his twin brother Vergil. It also establishes the motivations that drive their eventual conflict, shaping the overarching narrative of the series. The story is darker and more personal, shedding light on Dante’s transformation from a brash youth into the composed demon slayer.

Gameplay innovations:
DMC3 introduced multiple combat styles—Swordmaster, Gunslinger, Trickster, and Royal Guard—each offering a different way to approach battles. This flexibility added depth and replay value, allowing players to experiment with various playstyles. The game’s high difficulty level and stylish combat encouraged mastery and creativity.

Legacy:
As the foundation for the later entries, DMC3 is often regarded as the best in the series. Its focus on character backstory, combined with its refined gameplay, makes it a standout among Best Video Game Prequels.

5. Halo: Reach — The Last Stand of Noble Team

Developer: Bungie | Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios | Platform: Xbox 360 | Release date: September 14, 2010

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Halo: Reach takes players to the beginning of the Covenant war, a time before Master Chief became a household name. It offers a detailed look at the brave soldiers of Noble Team, showcasing their sacrifices and the brutal reality of combat on Reach.

Story and significance:
Set weeks before the events of Halo: Combat Evolved, Reach chronicles the final stand of a team of Spartans tasked with defending humanity’s last stronghold. The game emphasizes teamwork, heroism, and the tragic cost of war. Players experience the loss and heroism of characters who are often overshadowed by the series’ protagonist, adding emotional depth to the franchise’s lore.

Gameplay and design:
The game refined Halo’s core mechanics, offering a variety of weapons, equipment, and tactical options. Its multiplayer modes expanded on the franchise’s reputation, and the campaign’s narrative presented a personal perspective on the larger galactic conflict.

Legacy:
Noble Team’s last mission, particularly the final stand of Noble Six, became iconic moments that enriched the Halo universe. The game’s storytelling and gameplay set a new standard for prequels in first-person shooters.

4. Yakuza 0 — The Birth of Legends

Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio | Publisher: Sega | Platform: PS3, PS4 | Release date: January 24, 2017

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Yakuza 0 functions as a perfect entry point into the series, offering a detailed origin story for the series’ two main characters—Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima. It explores their early days, revealing how their personalities and relationships evolved over time.

Story and character development:
Set nearly two decades before the original Yakuza, the game uncovers the chaos surrounding a vacant lot that sparks a fierce turf war among rival crime families. Players see a younger, more impulsive Kazuma Kiryu navigating the criminal underworld, while Goro Majima begins to forge his unpredictable, wild persona. Their stories intertwine with themes of loyalty, betrayal, and ambition, providing a richer understanding of their later selves.

Gameplay and world-building:
Yakuza 0 combines intense combat, detailed side activities, and a lively open world. Its mini-games, social interactions, and detailed cityscapes create an immersive experience. The game’s tone balances gritty crime drama with moments of humor and human drama, making it a standout in the series.

Influence and legacy:
By showcasing the origins of its characters and setting, Yakuza 0 has attracted new fans and deepened the appreciation of longtime players. It demonstrates how a well-crafted prequel can serve as a fresh starting point while enriching the series’ lore.

3. Deus Ex: Human Revolution — Ethical Dilemmas in a Cyber Future

Developer: Eidos Montreal | Publisher: Square Enix Europe | Platform: PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii U | Release date: August 23, 2011

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Deus Ex: Human Revolution offers a window into the world before the original’s dystopian chaos, focusing on the rise of augmentations and the societal upheaval they cause. It’s a prequel that raises questions about technology, ethics, and power, setting a reflective tone for the series.

Story and themes:
Protagonist Adam Jensen’s transformation after a catastrophic attack symbolizes the series’ themes of transhumanism and moral ambiguity. The game explores the tensions between corporations, governments, and individuals, illustrating how advanced technology can be both a boon and a curse. It’s an origin story not just for Jensen but for the societal upheavals that define the series.

Gameplay and design:
The game emphasizes player choice—stealth, hacking, combat, or dialogue—allowing multiple approaches to each situation. Its narrative depth and moral complexity encourage players to think critically about the implications of technology, making it a thought-provoking entry in the Best Video Game Prequels list.

Impact:
Human Revolution serves as a blueprint for how prequels can deepen a series’ themes while offering engaging gameplay. It bridges the gap between past and future, setting the stage for the chaos to come.

2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater — Origins of a Legend

Developer: Konami Computer Entertainment Japan | Publisher: Konami | Platform: PS2 | Release date: November 17, 2004

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Metal Gear Solid 3 offers insight into the origins of key characters, especially Big Boss, and redefines the entire series’ lore. It introduces a new setting—the jungles of Russia—and a fresh gameplay style that revolutionized stealth gaming.

Story and character development:
Set during the Cold War, Snake Eater traces Naked Snake’s transformation into Big Boss, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of war. The game reveals how the series’ most complex characters came to be, providing context for the conflicts and ideologies that shape later titles.

Gameplay innovations:
The game features survival mechanics like camouflage, stamina management, and a more open-world approach to infiltration. These changes allowed for varied strategies and increased immersion, setting new standards for stealth gameplay.

Series impact:
Snake Eater’s narrative and gameplay innovations laid the groundwork for future Metal Gear titles, enriching the series’ mythos and giving players a deeper understanding of its central figures.

1. Red Dead Redemption 2 — The Roots of the Wild West

Developer: Rockstar Games | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Platform: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release date: October 26, 2018

Why it belongs among the Best Video Game Prequels:
Red Dead Redemption 2 stands out as a prequel that not only tells a compelling story but also redefines open-world storytelling. It explores the decline of the American frontier through the eyes of Arthur Morgan, a character who embodies the fading ideals of the Wild West.

Story and thematic depth:
The game’s narrative centers on Arthur’s struggles with loyalty, morality, and change as the law and civilization encroach on the outlaw lifestyle. It vividly depicts the disintegration of the Van der Linde gang, providing a detailed backdrop for the original game’s events.

Technical achievements and world-building:
Rockstar’s meticulous attention to detail results in a living, breathing world filled with dynamic weather, wildlife, and complex NPC interactions. The game’s cinematic quality, emotional depth, and vast environments create an experience that sets new standards for prequels.

Character development:
Arthur Morgan’s journey from a hardened outlaw to a man seeking redemption offers a profound look at the human side of the Old West. His story, coupled with the richly detailed world, demonstrates how a prequel can elevate its franchise beyond mere backstory.

Final Thoughts on the Best Video Game Prequels

The best video game prequels often serve as more than just backstory—they become essential chapters that deepen our understanding of characters, enrich the worlds we love, and challenge our perceptions of the original stories. Whether through groundbreaking gameplay, compelling narratives, or stunning visuals, these titles prove that a well-made prequel can stand alongside or even surpass the original in significance.

From the youthful days of Batman to the origins of legendary warriors, and from the dawn of the Wild West to the complex moral questions of a cyberpunk future, these Best Video Game Prequels showcase the power of storytelling and innovation in gaming. They remind us that sometimes, revisiting the past can open entirely new horizons for future adventures.