The question "How many Spyro games are there?" isn't as straightforward as it seems. The answer depends on how you define a "Spyro game," considering remakes, spin-offs, and the different platforms they appeared on. Let's break it down to give you a complete picture.
The Original Spyro Trilogy: A Reign of Purple Fire
The original Spyro the Dragon trilogy, developed by Insomniac Games, is where the legend began. These games, released for the original PlayStation, are considered the quintessential Spyro experience:
- Spyro the Dragon (1998): The game that launched the franchise, introducing Spyro, Sparx, and the Gnasty Gnorc.
- Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage! (1999): Expanding the world and gameplay mechanics, this installment solidified Spyro's popularity.
- Spyro: Year of the Dragon (2000): The final game in the Insomniac trilogy, introducing Spyro's dragon friends and a larger, more diverse world.
These three games form the foundation of the Spyro franchise and are highly regarded by fans for their charm, gameplay, and level design.
Beyond the Original Trilogy: Expanding the Spyro Universe
After Insomniac Games, other developers took the reins, leading to a diverse range of Spyro games. This period saw different art styles, gameplay mechanics, and overall tones. Some notable entries include:
- Spyro: Enter the Dragonfly (2002): Developed by Eurocom, this installment marked a shift in art style and gameplay.
- Spyro: A Hero's Tail (2004): Another Eurocom title, slightly different in feel from the prior installment.
- The Legend of Spyro trilogy (2006-2008): This trilogy, developed by Krome Studios, took a darker and more mature approach to the Spyro universe. It featured a significantly different art style and story.
These titles, while expanding the Spyro universe, often received mixed reviews from fans due to their deviation from the original style.
The Reignited Trilogy and Beyond: A Return to Glory?
Activision brought the original trilogy back into the spotlight with the Spyro Reignited Trilogy (2018). This remaster faithfully recreated the original three games with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics, recapturing the magic for a new generation and delighting longtime fans.
While not technically "new" games, the Reignited Trilogy significantly impacted the Spyro landscape, making the original games accessible to a broader audience.
So, How Many Spyro Games Are There? The Final Count
Counting each individual game released, including the original trilogy, sequels, and the Reignited Trilogy, we get a total of nine main Spyro games. However, it's important to note that some may consider certain games more canonical or impactful than others. The true number depends on your personal definition of what constitutes a core Spyro experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any other Spyro games besides the main series?
Yes, there are several spin-off games featuring Spyro, such as Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs and Spyro: Season of Ice and Flame. These are less well-known and often not included in discussions of the main series, as they are largely different.
Is there a new Spyro game coming out?
As of late 2023, there is no official announcement of a new Spyro game, but the beloved franchise remains a strong possibility for future development. Fans eagerly await news of any potential future installments.
Which Spyro games are considered the best?
Many fans consider the original Insomniac Games trilogy (Spyro the Dragon, Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage!, and Spyro: Year of the Dragon) to be the best entries in the franchise. The Spyro Reignited Trilogy allows modern players to experience this peak. However, personal preference will ultimately dictate opinions.
This overview should provide a clear answer to "How many Spyro games are there?", and more importantly, a deeper understanding of the rich history and evolution of this beloved dragon franchise.
