If we're talking our dream sequels, then yeah underwhelmed, but I'm definitely going to give it its chance.
What I don't like though are sequels that are not sequels, in that they re-hash environments, scenarios. There's a real progression between SOR - SOR3 in regards to the settings, music, themes, etc. I'm worried that SOR4 is going to be a compilation of the last 3 (with a new coat of paint) instead of a true true, on its own sequel. Each SOR game was a representation of the dark themes of its time. I really hope they don't make the mistake of just recreating an 80's and 90's feel and instead take the brave step of really modernizing it and showcasing the same themes of this era.
From what I've seen so far, people are on the fence about the art-style and I understand the criticisms. Ultimately, I feel the music is gonna make or break this as far as acceptance with the fans. SOR is pretty much, for many, that generation's introduction to real, deep, masterful electronic music which I think peaked at SOR2, but still evolved onwards. Anything less, will be a disappointment to the legacy of the game. This is what I'm worried about most as Lizard Cube's rearrangement of Wonder Boy's 3 music was off the mark for me. I can take an SOR game with samey gameplay as the originals. I can stand the comicbook-ish look. What I can't take though, is an SOR game with an uninspired soundtrack. It just won't work.
We'll see what they come up with in this department. If they announced that Yuzo was handling the soundtrack then I wouldn't worry about this as it would be in the hands of the master, but I'm not one of those who will not consider this an SOR game without him either. The SOR Remake game had a very capable artist in Paul Clark (BGM1401) that I wish would get a chance to do an original soundtrack for the sequel.
I think we all have a burning passion for this series and it's great that it is coming back with a release that at the very least looks competent. I REALLY want it to do well just so that SOR can return and be considered for more experimental sequels down the road.
Oh man, all in all, SOR was soooo brave and edgy for its time in everything that it did. The closest I've ever felt to a modern game being close in terms of its execution, edge and bravery would be the first Bayonetta game. My dream SOR game would have been done by Platinum if Sega had maintained its relationship with them. Sega and Platinum had a magic for the few titles they made together that's gone now. You can even say Mad World and Anarchy Reigns are spiritual successors to SOR.
