The Best That Never Were: Lost Games of the 80's, 90's & 2000's

In the fast-paced world of video game development, not every project reaches the finish line. For every Super Mario Bros., Final Fantasy, or Halo, there are countless titles that, despite massive anticipation and exciting previews, were ultimately left on the cutting room floor. The Best That Never Were: Lost Games of the 80's, 90's & 2000's explores the fascinating stories of some of the most legendary games that never saw the light of day, spanning three decades of gaming history.
From the colorful pixelated worlds of the 1980s to the ambitious 3D adventures of the 2000s, this book takes readers on a journey through gaming’s greatest "what-ifs." Discover the untold stories of titles like Star Fox 2, Resident Evil 1.5, and Warcraft Adventures: Lord of the Clans. These games were set to redefine their genres, promising groundbreaking mechanics, rich storytelling, and immersive worlds. Yet, due to technical challenges, creative conflicts, or shifts in corporate priorities, they were never released.
The Best That Never Were pulls back the curtain on the development processes, showcasing interviews with developers, early gameplay concepts, and excerpts from preview coverage that had fans eagerly awaiting these projects. From the canceled Project Titan that later inspired Overwatch to the ambitious open-world survival game B.C. that was too complex for the technology of its time, each chapter sheds light on the passion, creativity, and struggle that go into making a game—and what happens when things don’t go as planned.
This book is not just about canceled games; it’s about the spirit of innovation and risk-taking that drives the industry forward. Many of these projects left a lasting legacy, with ideas and concepts that inspired future hits, proving that even the games that never launched have a story to tell. Whether you’re a lifelong gamer or simply curious about the hidden history of game development, The Best That Never Were offers a captivating look at the creative ambitions and behind-the-scenes drama of gaming’s greatest lost titles.
Dive into the untold tales of gaming’s past and discover the best that never were—games that could have changed everything, if only they had made it to the start screen.