Summary
- A Bully remake could be the safest option for Rockstar to satisfy fan expectations and introduce the series to newcomers.
- The high expectations and nostalgia surrounding the original Bully game make it challenging for Rockstar to create a satisfying sequel.
- A Bully remake could help gauge the interest in a sequel and potentially attract a new fanbase while giving existing fans something new to enjoy.
While Rockstar's primary focus may be on Grand Theft Auto, there was a time when it played around with many unique IPs. One such IP came in the form of Bully, 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 a Bully sequel for years, Rockstar has not released anything of the kind.
Not a year can go by without someone asking Rockstar to make Bully 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 for Bully 2 continues to grow, this seems like the safest route forward.
Bully 2's Fate Doesn't Mean Rockstar Hasn't Plans For It
Bully 2's history of rumors and cancellations does not change the fact that the town of Bullworth still has potential for Rockstar.
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 a Bully remake should come before Bully 2 is 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 have built their perfect Bully 2 in 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. Bully is 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 with pretty much any Star Wars film since 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 like the Resident Evil titles, then it has the chance to usher in a new era of fans.
A Bully remake 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 are dying 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 anything Bully related outside a few leaks, nor does it seem like Rockstar has any plans to revisit the IP. Right now, the studio is focused on delivering Grand Theft Auto 6. After that, hopefully, Bully will 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.
- Released
- October 17, 2006
- ESRB
- T For Teen due to Crude Humor, Language, Sexual Themes, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Rockstar Vancouver
- Publisher(s)
- Rockstar Games
- Engine
- RenderWare, Gamebryo
- Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer, Local Co-Op
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 can survive the school year and outsmart your rivals, you could rule the school.
