Rare Replay, the retro compilation from developer Rare released last week, has so far been well-received, with a Metacritic score of 85. In fact, it’s been better received than anyone could have hoped for. The game debuted at number 1 on the UK game charts, the first such debut for Rare since Banjo-Kazooie, way back in 1998. It’s also the first budget cost title (priced at $30) since Wii Sports in 2009 to open at number 1.
It’s great news for Rare. It’s even better news for Microsoft.
With its debut atop the UK charts, Rare Replay becomes the first Xbox One exclusive to reach those heights since the console came out. This is significant because sales numbers have been bleak for the console, which, as of April, has been outsold nearly 2-to-1 by the PlayStation4. Quality Xbox-exclusive games are one way for Microsoft to regain ground, and Rare Replay could be a first step in that direction.
However, it’s important to note that the game is available for half the price of most Xbox games and was released during the slow summer months. It’s possible that its success is a result of its circumstances, rather than any indication of the gaming landscape.
Regardless, Microsoft hopes capitalize on what is nonetheless a positive sign. In the next few months, several more exclusive games will be released, many of which are more tied to the Xbox brand. Halo, Gears of War, and Fable will all be seeing new iterations come to the Xbox One. Success with these games would officially constitute a positive trend for the company and provide a better indication of the health of console.
While waiting for some of these more well-known exclusives to come out, Rare Replay is currently available for $30. For Xbox owners looking for a chance to finally enjoy a game (or 30) exclusive to their console, this is an excellent opportunity to get in on the action.
