Prequels can be tricky. They have to expand the story we already love without stepping on the toes of the original game’s narrative. Done right, they give us deeper lore, richer characters, and sometimes even better gameplay than the original. From cinematic storytelling to groundbreaking mechanics, these 10 prequels prove that going backward in time can be just as thrilling as moving forward.
1. Red Dead Redemption 2 – PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Few prequels have redefined storytelling like Red Dead Redemption 2. Set before the events of Red Dead Redemption, it follows Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang during their peak and inevitable fall. It’s not just a western; it’s an emotional gut punch with unmatched open-world detail.
2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater – PlayStation 2, PS3, Xbox 360
Going back to the Cold War era, Snake Eater tells the origin story of Big Boss and sets the stage for the entire Metal Gear saga. Stealth mechanics, a killer soundtrack, and one of gaming’s most iconic endings make it a standout.
3. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword – Nintendo Switch, Wii
As the first game in the Zelda timeline, Skyward Sword lays the foundation for the Master Sword, Zelda’s reincarnations, and the eternal battle with evil. With its recent HD remaster, its mix of motion-based combat and heartfelt narrative is easier than ever to experience.
4. Halo: Reach – Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC
You know the fall of Reach is coming — but that doesn’t make it any less impactful. Halo: Reach focuses on Noble Team’s doomed mission, delivering a mix of intense firefights, emotional character moments, and a finale that’s pure tragedy.
5. Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening – PlayStation 2, Switch, PC
This prequel takes us back to Dante’s cocky younger days, before the demon hunter became the stylish legend we know. With tight combat, over-the-top boss fights, and a deeper dive into Dante and Vergil’s relationship, it’s pure hack-and-slash perfection.
6. Resident Evil 0 – GameCube, Wii, Switch, PC
Set just before the mansion incident of the original Resident Evil, this prequel follows Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen. The unique character-swapping mechanic and eerie environments make it a creepy treat for survival horror fans.
7. Yakuza 0 – PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Kiryu and Majima’s early days have never been more entertaining. Yakuza 0 is a perfect starting point for newcomers, with wild side quests, deep combat, and a story that blends crime drama with the bizarre charm only the series can pull off.
8. Gears of War: Judgment – Xbox 360
While not as beloved as the mainline games, Judgment provides a fresh perspective through Damon Baird’s eyes. Faster-paced combat and a look at events before Gears of War make it an underrated prequel worth revisiting.
9. Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core – PSP, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC (Crisis Core – Final Fantasy VII – Reunion)
Following Zack Fair, this emotional prequel enriches the Final Fantasy VII universe. Fans finally got to see the events leading to Cloud’s journey, all while enjoying an action-RPG combat system and one of the most heartbreaking endings in gaming.
10. God of War: Ascension – PlayStation 3
Kratos’ earliest adventure gives context to his rage-filled journey. While not as revolutionary as the main entries, Ascension still delivers brutal combat, epic set pieces, and insight into his tragic past.
Final Thoughts
Video game prequels often have the advantage of hindsight — developers can refine gameplay, flesh out lore, and give fans long-awaited answers. Whether it’s the slow-burn tragedy of Red Dead Redemption 2 or the chaotic style of Devil May Cry 3, these titles prove that looking back can be every bit as thrilling as moving forward.
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