Rediscovered: Three Forgotten Video Games Now Playable

Video games often vanish into obscurity due to development challenges or disappointing releases. While many of these titles remain lost, a few have resurfaced, offering gamers a chance to experience what was once thought to be gone forever. Three notable examples—Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 Wave Net, Star Fox 2, and Akira—have recently been made accessible to the public.

Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 Wave Net: A Return from Oblivion

Once deemed lost, Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 Wave Net was an online version of the classic fighter that only appeared in select arcades. Thanks to the Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, fans could finally experience this version, marking a significant moment in gaming history. The collection’s release allowed players to explore a piece of the franchise that had been shrouded in mystery.

Star Fox 2: Nintendo’s Long-Lost Sequel

The Star Fox series holds a pivotal place in Nintendo’s legacy, with the original game pushing the Super Nintendo’s capabilities. Although Star Fox 2 was developed and set for release in 1995, it was ultimately shelved due to concerns about its graphics compared to emerging 3D titles. The game introduced essential elements that would feature in later installments, such as the infamous team Star Wolf.

It wasn’t until 2017 that the game became available to the public, included in the Super Nintendo Classic console. Its release generated mixed reactions, but for many, it represented a long-awaited chance to engage with a forgotten chapter of Nintendo history.

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi: Ewok Adventure

The Atari 2600 boasts an impressive library of titles, including several based on the Star Wars franchise. Among these is Return of the Jedi: Ewok Adventure, a game that never officially reached store shelves. Although a prototype existed, development ceased in 1983 after discussions between Parker Brothers and designer Larry Gelberg fell through.

Years later, in 1997, the prototype resurfaced, leading to its eventual auction and a sale price exceeding $1,500. The gameplay allows players to control an Ewok on a glider, battling Imperial forces. Despite its challenging controls, the game provided players with a glimpse into the potential of this lost title.

Akira: The Unfinished Classic

A game based on the iconic anime Akira was developed for multiple platforms, including the Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis. Initially set for release in 1995, the project was halted due to financial difficulties faced by THQ, which owned the development studio, Black Pearl Studios.

For years, the game seemed to have disappeared entirely until files for the Sega Genesis version emerged online in 2019. Its rediscovery delighted the anime community, allowing fans to engage with a game that blended various gameplay styles, from platforming to first-person shooting. Despite its incomplete state, the game features cutscenes drawing from the original manga.

Advancements in technology have made it possible to recover many lost video games. These titles serve as reminders of the creative ambitions of their time and provide insights into the evolution of the gaming industry. As gamers explore these restored classics, they gain a better understanding of their significance in the history of video games. The fascination with rediscovering lost titles continues, raising anticipation for what other games might still await discovery.