While some concepts shine brightly in theory, they occasionally struggle in execution. A notable example of this is The Walking Dead: Survival Instinct, a video game that featured several intriguing ideas but ultimately underwhelmed both critics and fans. Recently, Robert Kirkman, the creator of The Walking Dead, openly recognized that the game fell short of the high expectations set by the franchise, despite its inherent potential.
In a letter published in The Walking Dead Deluxe #111, a fan expressed disappointment regarding the game’s quality. Kirkman offered a forthright response, conceding that while the game had intriguing features, it ultimately did not fulfill its potential. He further clarified that AMC had primarily directed the game’s development.
“I think Survival Instinct had merits as a cool way of getting more Daryl, who is a popular character from the TV show, but in the end, I will admit that it fell short of hitting the mark.”
Kirkman acknowledged that the game brought additional content featuring Daryl, arguably the show’s most beloved character, yet he did not shy away from the truth that it failed to provide the enjoyable experience fans were eagerly anticipating. This recognition from the franchise’s creator highlights the game’s lack of polish and the widespread disappointment that followed its release.
Kirkman’s Candid Commentary
Understanding the Shortcomings of Survival Instinct
In his correspondence within The Walking Dead Deluxe #111, Kirkman elaborated on why Survival Instinct came to fruition. He explained that AMC had the reins on the game’s production while his team at Skybound concentrated on the acclaimed Telltale series of The Walking Dead. Although he credited the game for providing fans with more Daryl, he conceded that its rushed development resulted in lackluster gameplay and an unfulfilling narrative. The game simply did not align with the expectations linked to the quality of the Walking Dead brand.
The correspondence from the fan, coupled with Kirkman’s candid reply, sheds light on the production dynamics behind Survival Instinct. Many fans may not realize that Kirkman does not have ownership over Daryl; that right belongs to AMC, which dictated how the character could be utilized in various media extensions, including video games. Meanwhile, Kirkman and his studio were preoccupied with the more successful Telltale series, which was recognized for its superior storytelling. This difference in oversight likely played a role in the significant disparity in quality between ‘Survival Instinct’ and other adaptations within the Walking Dead universe.
The Backlash Against Survival Instinct
The Risks of Rushed Cash-Grab Games
The unfortunate outcomes of Survival Instinct serve as a cautionary reminder about the pitfalls of hastily launching a game to chase quick profits. Both critics and gamers voiced their frustration over the game’s glaring lack of refinement and cohesiveness, with some labeling it a “lazy, cheap cash grab.”In the rush to capitalize on the popularity of The Walking Dead television series, the game earned a place among the worst-reviewed titles in the gaming community. The inability to deliver an engaging experience disappointed both fans and creators, contributing to a tarnished legacy for what could have been a remarkable addition to the franchise.
Kirkman’s reflections act as a testament to the importance of maintaining high-quality standards in ancillary media, regardless of the original property’s success. Rushed game releases or half-hearted concepts can ultimately damage a beloved franchise’s reputation. When a product fails to meet expectations, the creators bear responsibility, as illustrated by the mixed reviews that accompanied Survival Instinct. This situation serves as a poignant reminder that the urge to leverage a successful brand should never take precedence over thorough planning and a commitment to excellence.
The latest issue of The Walking Dead Deluxe #111 is now available at your local comic store.