Before Bloodborne and Dark Souls, FromSoftware created a unique GameCube title called Lost Kingdoms that deserves a modern remake to prevent it from becoming lost media.
FromSoftware, the studio renowned for its challenging and critically acclaimed ' Soulslike ' games like Dark Souls, Demon's Souls, and Bloodborne, has a rich history extending beyond its current mainstream success.
While fans eagerly anticipate a potential remake of Bloodborne, a lesser-known yet equally deserving title from the company's past is crying out for a revival. Before establishing the 'Soulslike' genre, FromSoftware experimented with various game designs, releasing titles that, while not achieving the same level of recognition, demonstrate the studio's consistent commitment to unique and engaging gameplay.
One such game, a GameCube exclusive released in 2002, stands out as a particularly compelling candidate for a modern remake: Lost Kingdoms, known as Rune in Japan. The premise of Lost Kingdoms, in retrospect, feels remarkably aligned with the narrative themes often explored in FromSoftware's later works. The story centers around a hero tasked with saving a world threatened by an all-consuming, encroaching fog – a familiar trope within the FromSoftware universe.
However, the gameplay mechanics of Lost Kingdoms diverge significantly from the direct combat found in the 'Souls' series. Instead of directly engaging in battle, the protagonist, Princess Katia, commands monsters who fight on her behalf, granting her special abilities and powers. This innovative system, where the player acts as a strategist and commander rather than a direct combatant, is truly unique and hasn't been replicated in a truly satisfying way since.
Games like Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories and Lost in Random offer glimpses of similar mechanics, but none capture the essence of Lost Kingdoms' strategic depth. The game’s combat system blends deck-building elements, reminiscent of modern titles like Slay the Spire, with the intensity of real-time battles.
Skillful card selection and strategic deployment of monsters are crucial for success, and the added pressure of real-time combat elevates the challenge to a level that foreshadows the difficulty FromSoftware would become famous for. This fusion of strategic planning and fast-paced action creates a compelling gameplay loop that is both engaging and rewarding. The sequel, Lost Kingdoms 2, followed in 2003, also exclusively for the GameCube. Unfortunately, the Lost Kingdoms IP has remained dormant ever since, seemingly abandoned by FromSoftware.
The situation is further complicated by the tangled web of rights ownership. The games were developed by FromSoftware, published in North America by Activision, and were exclusive to a Nintendo console. This complex arrangement presents significant hurdles to any potential revival. Currently, the only way to experience either Lost Kingdoms or its sequel is through the original GameCube hardware, effectively locking these games behind an increasingly obscure platform.
This is a fate that Bloodborne fans fear for their beloved PlayStation 4 exclusive, but unlike Bloodborne, which has at least been granted an animated adaptation, the future of Lost Kingdoms appears considerably more uncertain. Without a dedicated remake or re-release, these games risk becoming lost media, fading into obscurity and potentially being forgotten by future generations of gamers.
The preservation of gaming history is crucial, and Lost Kingdoms represents a unique and valuable piece of FromSoftware's legacy that deserves to be rediscovered and appreciated by a wider audience. A revival would not only introduce a new generation to a hidden gem but also demonstrate FromSoftware’s commitment to its entire catalog, not just its current blockbuster titles.
It’s a chance to showcase the studio’s innovative spirit and remind players of the diverse range of experiences it has created over the years. Considering FromSoftware’s recent success with the Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, a revival of a previously dormant franchise, the possibility of Lost Kingdoms receiving similar treatment isn’t entirely far-fetched.
The studio has demonstrated a willingness to revisit its past, and the unique gameplay mechanics of Lost Kingdoms could resonate with modern audiences seeking fresh and challenging experiences. The game’s strategic depth, combined with its real-time combat, offers a compelling alternative to the more action-focused 'Soulslike' titles.
Furthermore, a remake could allow FromSoftware to refine and expand upon the original game’s concepts, creating a truly exceptional and memorable experience. The potential for a modern Lost Kingdoms is immense, and it’s a project that deserves serious consideration from the studio. The game’s legacy, though currently overshadowed by its more famous brethren, is a testament to FromSoftware’s creativity and willingness to experiment.
Bringing Lost Kingdoms back to life would be a celebration of the studio’s history and a gift to gamers who appreciate innovative and challenging gameplay
Fromsoftware Lost Kingdoms Gamecube Remake Soulslike
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