Sometimes, it feels like the gaming industry is running out of ideas. For all the bold new concepts coming out each year, there seem to be twice as many uninspired games centering around tired storylines and overused mechanics. 63% of gamers reacting to a survey we mentioned on GeekExtreme agree that remakes often fall under the cash-grabby category. Capitalizing on long-established characters is already a pretty safe bet. But the cynical players around may point out that re-releasing past hits is a sure way to bring in the money.
Yet every so often, a remake dares do something different instead of being a shallow replica. The rapid progress of new technologies can also reinvigorate a vintage title, delivering crisper graphics for long-time fans to experience their favorite game anew and newcomers to jump on board. So, let’s dive right into three game remakes worth your while.
Shadow of the Colossus
Shadow of the Colossus may well be the prime example of a remake done right. Granted, this 2018 iteration brings nothing new to the table in the gameplay department. In fact, the gameplay is almost identical to its predecessor’s in nearly every aspect. Still, this action-adventure entry remains a superb improvement on the original title all-round.
Released on the PS2 in 2005, the first Shadow of the Colossus was soon hailed as a cult classic. But as the PS2 grew out of fashion, Sony and Bluepoint decided to create a brand-new definitive version in high definition. And in 2018, a revamped Shadow of the Colossus took the world by storm. This remake paid tremendous tribute to the original by enhancing its core qualities and graphical beauty while maintaining an overall familiar feel. A commercial success, the game also earned multiple accolades.
Resident Evil 4
Hardcore Resident Evil fans had long been clamoring for a Resident Evil 4 remake before developers eventually answered their prayers. Released in late March this year, the remake of this survival horror classic was one of the most anticipated games of 2023. And this modern reimagining exceeded all expectations, receiving universal acclaim. Gaming outlets like Kotaku showered Capcom’s latest remaster with praise, calling it better than the original.
Critics aside, however, Resident Evil 4 has proven divisive within the gaming community. Some players even review-bombed the title, expressing discontent at gameplay changes like cut contents and perceived dumbed-down difficulty. Other die-hard fans lamented the game’s attempt at catering to new audiences. Despite this division, this horror classic rejuvenated is off to a strong start with over 3 million units sold in a matter of days.
Yakuza Kiwami
Few franchises come close to the Yakuza series – recently rebranded as Like a Dragon – for sheer bombastic fun. Embarking players alongside a reformed mobster, this series of action-adventure games meet RPG is all about exploring the neon-clad streets of districts modeled after real-life Tokyo and Osaka neighborhoods. And Sega put a fresh spin on the franchise following the success of the Yakuza 0 prequel. A remake of the original installment, Yakuza Kiwami brings back iconic protagonist Kazuma Kiryu.
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Remakes might seem like somewhat of a current fetish in the gaming industry. Tons of video game remasters are slated for release in 2023 alone, from System Shock to Silent Hill 2. Arguably, remakes may divide gamers, who decry their lack of imagination and sometimes rushed production. Yet some remakes have shown they were no mere cash grabs but a genuine reimagining of past classics.
Remakes may also appeal to a wider audience than ever before. Former Japan-exclusive Like a Dragon: Ishin! makes a strong case for remasters to be released on a global scale. In addition, new iterations usually hit more devices than intended. In any event, the remake trend shows no sign of abating. And while some remasters might be sub-par, others will surely put an inventive spin on a beloved title from days gone by.
