In a time when a lot of children’s media was focused on “eco warriors” and fighting against pollution and stuff, you had a game with an Italian plumber stomping on turtles.
I honestly can’t remember a time when EA was well liked. Even in elementary school in the 90’s, it was common for kids to refer to them as Electronic Farts.
I actually won a raffle they had because I signed up to their newsletter as soon as I heard about the game, so I have a bunch of merch for a thing I don’t even like lol
Hate to break it to you, but this usually also comes with a forced update to your OG copy. At least, Bethesda and Nightdive have been doing that a lot.