5 Video Game Series That I Never Want to End

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As a lifelong gamer, it’s amazing to see how some series have stuck with me through every stage of my life! They’ve grown and changed with the times, but they always manage to capture that original magic that got me hooked in the first place. There are just some franchises with characters, worlds, and gameplay that feel totally irreplaceable, even after all these years. Honestly, I’ve seen so many developers try to come up with something better, but nothing really compares – it proves these games are truly classics and aren’t going anywhere soon.

The gaming world is always evolving, with studios opening and closing, and popular games sometimes fading away for long periods. This makes me especially grateful for long-running series and the many happy memories they’ve given me. There are several franchises that have stayed relevant across multiple gaming consoles, and I truly hope these five favorites continue with new releases for years to come.

5) Soulcalibur

The Soulcalibur series is a distinctive standout in the world of fighting games. Created by Bandai Namco, it became well-known for its focus on battles using weapons, which made it different from other games in the genre. Starting with the first Soul Edge arcade game in 1995, the series has introduced players to iconic characters like Mitsurugi, Sophitia, Nightmare, and Ivy. More recent games have even allowed players to design their own characters and experience personalized stories.

I have really fond memories of playing Soulcalibur II and Soulcalibur III. What made Soulcalibur II so unique was the addition of characters from other franchises, like Link, Spawn, and Heihachi, which gave each playthrough a special feel. The game’s combat was smooth and responsive, making it fun for both beginners and experienced players. I still cherish the afternoons I spent playing with my brother, and I occasionally play Soulcalibur III on my PS5 to revisit those times.

The most recent Soulcalibur game, Soulcalibur VI, came out in 2018 and was a hit with both critics and players. Although we haven’t seen a new game since then, there’s still a lot of demand for one, and Bandai Namco hasn’t ruled it out. With the recent success of fighting games like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8, now might be the ideal time for Bandai Namco to revive Soulcalibur with improved graphics, online play, and a fresh roster of characters.

4) Fire Emblem

The Fire Emblem series has had a remarkable evolution in the world of video games. Starting in Japan in 1990, it was a fairly unknown strategy game for many years. However, when Fire Emblem characters began appearing in the Super Smash Bros. games, it exposed the series to a much wider audience and showcased its unique gameplay and compelling characters. The game Fire Emblem Awakening was a turning point, bringing the series into the mainstream.

I first got into the Fire Emblem series on the Game Boy Advance, and despite being a bit clumsy at it, I quickly became hooked. What I really loved was how it combined strategic battles with compelling characters. The fact that characters could permanently die made every fight feel incredibly tense. Losing a character you liked could really change how a game went, so you had to plan carefully, get emotionally attached, and sometimes even start over. Winning felt truly rewarding, and I always did my best to protect my team.

The Fire Emblem series saw a big leap forward with 2019’s Three Houses, which featured compelling characters and a fantastic story. Fire Emblem Engage also did well, but it leaned more into challenging gameplay and callbacks to older games. I’m excited for Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave to blend these strengths and become the best Fire Emblem game so far. Plus, with the power of the new Nintendo Switch 2, it could also be the most beautiful game in the series.

3) The Legend of Zelda

The Legend of Zelda is one of the most important and influential game series ever created. Starting with the original game in 1986, it consistently set new standards for exploration, puzzle-solving, and creating immersive worlds. The adventures of Link, Princess Zelda, and Ganondorf are now a core part of video game history, inspiring many game creators. And now, Nintendo is bringing their story to the big screen with a new Legend of Zelda movie.

I have so many great memories of playing Zelda games, especially exploring the world of Hyrule. Whether it was uncovering hidden areas in Ocarina of Time, sailing the seas in The Wind Waker, or getting lost in the huge world of Breath of the Wild, each game felt full of wonder and possibilities. The Zelda series is truly exceptional at making you feel like you’re discovering something new around every corner – it’s a feeling few other games can match.

Released in 2023, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom builds on the expansive open world introduced in the previous game. With its innovative building features and intricate world design, the game proves Nintendo continues to find new and exciting ways to develop the Legend of Zelda series after decades. Considering Nintendo’s history, it’s hard to picture a future where The Legend of Zelda stops being innovative, or the series comes to an end.

2) Final Fantasy

When people talk about the best role-playing game series of all time, Final Fantasy always comes up, and it’s often at the top of the list. This iconic series from Square Enix started in 1987 and has been a major name in gaming ever since. What’s truly impressive is how Final Fantasy constantly evolves with each new game. Every numbered title features fresh worlds, characters, and gameplay, but still delivers the high quality and compelling stories that fans love. Square Enix hasn’t been afraid to completely change how the games are played throughout the main series.

I first discovered the Final Fantasy series with Final Fantasy VI, and it completely redefined what I thought video game stories could be. I continued to enjoy the series with games like Final Fantasy VII, IX, X, and XVI, which all strengthened my appreciation for it. Each game brought something unique, and the series as a whole consistently aimed high – a level of ambition rarely seen in other franchises. Even when people disagree about a particular Final Fantasy game, you can always count on it being imaginative and original.

As a longtime Final Fantasy fan, I was really excited to see where the series was going with the latest releases. Final Fantasy XVI, which came out in 2023, definitely leaned into faster, more action-packed battles. Then, in 2024, we got Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, continuing that awesome remake project. And honestly, the future looks incredibly bright! They’re already working on the third remake game, and we all know Final Fantasy XVII is eventually coming. If Square Enix keeps being willing to try new things, I think Final Fantasy will stay amazing for a long time.

1) Pokemon

Pokemon has had a huge influence on my life. Ever since the original Pokemon Red and Pokemon Blue came out in the late 1990s, the series has become incredibly popular worldwide, expanding into video games, cards, cartoons, movies, and all sorts of merchandise. I’m naturally drawn to it because I love animals, going on adventures, and creating strong, strategic teams. It’s one of the very few series where I’ve played every single game released.

I first fell in love with Pokémon playing Pokémon Blue on my Game Boy during my commute to school – I even needed a special light to see the screen! Ever since, each new release has felt like a big occasion. I still fondly remember when my wife guided me through Best Buy after I got Pokémon Moon and immediately started playing in the store. The thrill of exploring new areas, encountering different Pokémon, and building new teams has never gotten old.

Recent Pokémon games like Scarlet and Violet introduced an open world, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A revamped the battle system. The upcoming Pokémon Winds and Waves promises even more innovation on the Nintendo Switch 2, and I’m really excited to see what they do. As the most successful media franchise globally, Pokémon continues to thrive, which is fantastic for dedicated fans like me – I hope it never ends!

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2026-06-06 00:16