Second Verse

      So in the past, I've gone over redoing an original product. However, that was more about remaking something, and the choices you could make doing so. Today, I want to explore the idea of tweaking ideas for a sequel. What features do you leave in, is it the same writer, etc. So, let's get started on this!

       Now, a good way to observe this type of change is, I find, in older video games.  At the time, you were able to put them out faster, but still have limited resources to use. In this case, let's look at the changes between Pikmin 1 and Pikmin 2.

Both images courtesy of Wikipedia. 

     Of course you have the obvious additions  of new enemies and 2 player. However, in the span it took to make the games, they added improved cutscenes, quality of life improvements, and extra game modes, all for the same system.

     This doesn't just apply to video games though! When a movie gets a sequel in the near future, a new writer could fill in to ease the weight on the crew. Another way it works is they could take the criticism of the first movie, and apply it to the sequel. I know the time between work applies here, but it still applies if there's a difference.

     

        Before I sign off, I just want to address this isn't always perfect. In some cases, the charm of the original can't be replicated, and sometimes extra features make it feel more bloated.  Another factor is that you want to address complaints correctly, as the right ones are trying to help. With that in mind, thank you for reading, and stay tuned!

Treading Old Ground

     For a lot of us, we will wish to go back and correct things. In the field of graphic design, those things we want to alter may vary.  As it stands however, even if the project was a success, a designer might not be completely satisfied with it. However, there's also the case where a creator might want to try something new with a familiar idea. Whatever the story may be, I want to talk about treading old ground in graphic design.

     Now we all have ideas that we can never really fit in sometimes. All projects have deadlines, and there are technical limitations. However, what if there was the chance to go at it again, with more time, and better resources? Chances are, you could turn out the project you wanted initially! If not that, then a good spruce up can do a game, movie, or pictures wonders! It would be like walking down a path with a better pair of shoes. 

      However, maybe you don't want to add to an idea, but try it a different way? Let's say you remake an old commercial for coffee, but do it in a modern setting. You could make fun of the previous commercial, try a role reversal of the plot, etc. As long as you can try something new, there's still potential with an idea. In this case, treading old ground can be seen as taking a different path along the way. 

      Now keep in mind, this can be a double-edged sword. You have to be ready for whatever reaction people may have to your work, even if it's negative. As such, some people will get annoyed if they see the same thing over and over again. Others will get annoyed if they see the wrong changes being made to something they loved. Just be wary of what the people think, before you go down the path again.

      What you want, is to read your main audience, and find what they want. Compromise is going to be key here, so don't forget that when you go down that old path. With all of that said however, thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed, and stay tuned!