Summary
While Rockstar’s primary focus may be onGrand Theft Auto, there was a time when it played around with many unique IPs. One such IP came in the form ofBully, which took the studio’s open-world formula to a boarding school for a new type of adventure. That risky blend paid off; the title was received very well and has built a loyal fanbase over the years. Although that fanbase has been clamoring for aBullysequel for years, Rockstar has not released anything of the kind.
Not a year can go by without someoneasking Rockstar to makeBully 2. At this point, it seems like the studio has zero plans to ever revisit the concept. But, if it does, it may not want to deliver on the fanbase’s wishes right away. Instead, it might be safer to just revisit the original title via a remake. That way, Rockstar can introduce the series to newcomers while also giving fans something to enjoy. As expectations forBully 2continues to grow, this seems like the safest route forward.
A Bully Remake May Be the Only Way to Do the Series Justice At This Point
Fan Expectation for Bully 2 is Through the Roof
One of the biggest reasons why aBullyremake should come beforeBully 2is that fan expectations are likely to be extremely high. It has been almost two decades since the original game launched, with only a remaster releasing in that time. During this wait, fans havebuilt their perfectBully 2in their minds. As the years go by, those perfect versions have likely only gotten even more advanced, to the point that Rockstar may never be able to match them.
Not only has that expectation grown, but the original game is also shrouded in nostalgia. Since it has been almost two decades, the generation that grew up playing the game has grown and often look back at the original with fondness. Just like with every form of media, the games that people played when they were younger are often put on a pedestal.Bullyis on a pedestal for many too, which does not help lessen the expectations for a sequel at all. In fact, it only makes it harder for Rockstar to follow it with something new, as seen withpretty much anyStar Warsfilmsince the originals.
Remaking Bully Could Remind Players What Made the Original So Special
Because of that sheer level of expectation, it may be easier for Rockstar to just bring that original adventure to modern consoles instead. Giving the game a facelift would finally give fans something to sink their teeth into after all of these years. If it is given the same level of care as other remakes liketheResident Eviltitles, then it has the chance to usher in a new era of fans.
ABullyremake could also help gauge if a sequel would actually be worth the effort. While the diehard fans definitely want one, it is unclear if people outside that sphere aredying for a return to Bullworth. So, this remake would be a great way to remind players why that original adventure is fondly remembered, and if it succeeds, then the studio could capitalize on it with another title. If it doesn’t end up being a massive hit, then at least fans will have something newer to play.
There is no news on anythingBullyrelated outside a few leaks, nor does it seem like Rockstar has any plans to revisit the IP. Right now, the studio is focused on deliveringGrand Theft Auto 6. After that, hopefully,Bullywill get another chance. While many would prefer a sequel, a remake feels like a much safer option, especially as the industry moves further away from the original’s release.
Bully
WHERE TO PLAY
The Rockstar tradition of groundbreaking, original gameplay, and tongue-in-cheek storytelling invades the schoolyard.As a mischievous teenager, Jimmy Hopkins, you’ll stand up to bullies, take on the liars, cheats, and snobs who are the most popular members of the student body and faculty at Bullworth Academy — the corrupt and crumbling prep school with an uptight façade — and ultimately learn to navigate the obstacles of life in the worst school around.If you may survive the school year and outsmart your rivals, you could rule the school.
