Consider the many so called "classics" ie. the old-school arcade / action games ''Space Invaders, Galaxian, Arkanoid, Galaxians, Defender, R-Type, Qix, Frogger, Bomberman'' and many more. It would seem possible that some of these old-school games could be hybridized with other similar games, by adding creatures / powerups from other similar games. Maybe in some cases this could be a refreshing addition. Adding extra variety, and a greater diversity in gameplay challenges. Although in other cases any such addition would have to be carefully considered, tweaked and balanced so as not to destroy the finely achieved gameplay balance that already existed.

This *might* be true, but consider what made those games 'classics' - simplicity and focus. Start adding loads of new features and you end up with a mess. As you say, these additions would have to be very carefully considered and balanced, would that really be worth the effort to create something that people will immediately compare to the classic of old (only they'll remember that with more fondness)?

I'm not against the idea per se, using ideas and inspiration from the good games of the past is certainly worthwhile but use them to create something new, not some (probably horribly mutated) amalgam of the old.

[edited by - JuNC on June 18, 2002 3:22:42 PM]

Hybrid "Classic" games: see Namco revivals.