2. Online Features Don't Last

One of the biggest criticisms of licensed games in the last generation was that they just didn't have enough content to justify a purchase. And while this is still true in many situations, some developers have tried to augment the licensed game with an online experience. And in some cases (like with the most recent Transformers release) these online modes are quite good. The only problem, however, is that the online modes are only as good as the people who use them, and people tend to lose interest quickly. And when you are trying to get as much value from your licensed games as possible, it can be quite disheartening when you boot up an online match only to find that no one is playing.

1. People Involved With the Source Material are Rarely Involved

The biggest reason why people buy licensed games is because they want to feel like they are a part of their favorite media. However, what gave that media its original spark is the vision and talent of its original creators. And those creators probably don't want anything to do with the games associated with the media. Look at games like those based on the Harry Potter or Shrek films. Both of these movie series have undeniable charm, and both have games that are utterly horrible. None of the original writers, creators, or producers oversaw the games, which meant that the ultimate product ended up uninspired and rushed into production.

Not all licensed games are bad (Batman: Arkham Asylum and Spider-Man: Web of Shadows spring to mind first), but unfortunately, these games are exceptions to the rule. Licensed games are rarely good, and often suffer from most if not all of the issues I've mentioned. Sure, you could go out this week and buy the game based on the movie Thor. But realistically, that game probably hits all of these points, and won't be something you will feel good about investing your $50 in. Trust me on this.

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Senior Contributing Writer

*The views expressed within this article are solely the opinion of the author and do not express the views held by Cheat Code Central.*