It's a bit depressing when all that can be heard from a sequel's reception is disappointment; for whatever reason, it didn't live up to its name. Could be hype, nostalgia, or perhaps it just plain sucked. But there are the times when a game, film etc truly tops its predecessor. What sequels do you think deserve such a claim?
(Of note, I only intend immediate sequels to be of discussion- saying FF7 is better than FF1 isn't a surprising conclusion, nor a very fair one. Even something like FF7> FF6 isn't really applicable- they only share a name and little else, not including battle system or RPG structure. Having an opinion that Majora's Mask bested Ocarina of Time is a fairer claim- immediate games in the series, same characters (or at least a different view of them), familiar dungeon/town formula. Not to mention it is the correct opinion )
Some of my favoured sequels-
-Pikmin 2- pretty much eliminated the flaws that were present in the original and worked on the strengths. Much longer quest, removal of time limit, creative dungeons and bosses and a rather cool multiplayer mode.
-Burnout 3- and I thought 2 was a leap in quality. This one really excelled both technically (some of the best sound design I've heard in a game) and design wise. The only thing that disappointed me was the direction taken in Crash mode, but I'm willing to forgive that.
-Majora's Mask- as mentioned before, I've come to realise this being the perfect follow up to Ocarina. Instead of just going the 'bigger, better' route, it made an experience all its own.
And some others..
-Resident Evil 4
-Spiderman 2 (films as well)
Oh, and even though I haven't played Shenmue, it would have to be a pretty amazing game to best its sequel.