Remastered games have become increasingly popular among gamers, as they offer a chance to re-experience the classics with improved gameplay mechanics and a fresh coat of paint. However, it’s important to bear in mind how tough it can be to try and preserve the magic of the original experience.
Sometimes, remasters can end up being so lackluster in terms of what they offer that most fans will dismiss them outright and will instead stick to the unpolished version of the game. Nonetheless, there are quite a few games that managed to get it right, reviving their beloved titles for a new generation of players to discover and appreciate.
11 Beyond Good & Evil HD
Ubisoft's iconic action-adventure title, Beyond Good & Evil, was largely overlooked upon its initial launch. However, the remastered HD version successfully brought this underappreciated gem back into the limelight.
The updated graphics breathed new life into the game's imaginative world, while the intuitive controls make exploration and combat more enjoyable than ever. By maintaining the original game's unique blend of mystery, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, Beyond Good & Evil HD not only captivates new players but also satisfies fans who cherished the original launch.
10 Shadow of the Colossus
Regarded as one of the most successful games of all time, Shadow of the Colossus made a triumphant return with its remastered version. Bluepoint Games' meticulous attention to detail in recreating the sprawling Forbidden Land and its colossal guardians is awe-inspiring.
The remaster breathes new life into the hauntingly beautiful world, showcasing the game's iconic minimalist storytelling and emotional depth. By preserving the original's sense of wonder and isolation, Shadow of the Colossus remains a testament to the power of video games as an art form and a must-play experience for gamers seeking a profound journey.
9 Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
The mischievous marsupial made a triumphant return in the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy. This remastered collection perfectly captures the essence of the original three games, showcasing their challenging platforming, vibrant worlds, and memorable characters.
With improved visuals and revamped controls, the trilogy introduces a new generation to the joy of Crash's wacky adventures while evoking nostalgia in seasoned players. The attention to detail in faithfully recreating the beloved levels and preserving the quirky charm of the original trilogy makes Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy a must-have for fans of classic platformers.
8 Valkyria Chronicles Remastered
Valkyria Chronicles originally garnered a dedicated fanbase for its unique blend of tactical gameplay, engaging storytelling, and vibrant watercolor visuals. The remastered version revitalizes the experience, introducing a new generation of players to its captivating world and strategic battles.
The enhanced graphics and smooth performance beautifully showcase the game's distinctive art style, making every battle feel like a living, hand-drawn painting. With its deep characters and emotional narrative set against a war-torn backdrop, Valkyria Chronicles Remastered demonstrates that a well-executed remaster can recapture the magic of a hidden gem and bring it to the forefront of gaming.
7 The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
Originally launched on the Game Boy, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening captured the hearts of many players with its charming story, clever puzzles, and delightful characters. The remastered version for the Nintendo Switch maintains the game's whimsical charm while introducing beautifully re-imagined visuals that bring the world of Koholint Island to life.
By staying true to the original's top-down perspective and retaining the essence of its gameplay, the remaster preserves the nostalgic experience that made Link's Awakening a beloved entry in the Zelda series. It is a perfect tribute to the timeless appeal of this classic and a must-play for fans old and new.
6 Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut
Deus Ex: Human Revolution was a critically acclaimed game that redefined the cyberpunk genre with its immersive storytelling and player choice-driven gameplay. The Director's Cut remaster enhances the original experience with improved visuals, refined boss battles, and integrated downloadable content.
By addressing some of the game's minor flaws and incorporating player feedback, the remaster takes an already exceptional game and makes it even better. Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut stays true to the original's immersive atmosphere, deep conspiracies, and moral dilemmas, making it a standout remaster that perfectly captures the spirit of what made the original a success.
5 Resident Evil HD Remaster
The original Resident Evil brought survival horror to the forefront of gaming, delivering tense gameplay, atmospheric exploration, and iconic scares. The HD remaster masterfully revitalizes this classic, enhancing the visuals while retaining the spine-chilling atmosphere that made the original a horror masterpiece.
The remaster's updated controls and improved camera angles make the gameplay more accessible, while the meticulous attention to detail preserves the original's sense of dread and anticipation. Resident Evil HD Remaster is a testament to the enduring appeal of survival horror and a definitive way to experience the game that kick-started a legendary franchise.
4 Journey
When Journey first graced our screens, it quickly became a hit known for its breathtaking visuals, evocative soundtrack, and innovative multiplayer mechanics. The remastered version enhances these qualities, immersing you in a mesmerizing desert landscape where you embark on a poignant pilgrimage.
By retaining the simplicity and elegance of the original, the remaster captures the essence of the game's emotional journey, where strangers come together to share an unforgettable experience without uttering a single word. Journey is a shining example of how a remastered game can preserve the purity and impact of the original, captivating players with its artistry and profound message.
3 Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
The grand world of Ivalice is faithfully rejuvenated in the remastered version of Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age. This version enhances the epic tale of political intrigue and war with refined visuals and gameplay.
The remaster retains the immersive environments, complex characters, and strategic combat that made the original so beloved. With its stunning high-definition graphics, updated job system, and re-orchestrated soundtrack, The Zodiac Age is a must-play for fans of the series and those looking to experience a captivating JRPG with a new lease of life.
2 Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2
Grind your way to glory in the remastered Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2. This collection captures the heart and soul of the original games, delivering a nostalgic skateboarding experience like no other.
The remastered visuals bring the iconic levels and skaters to life with stunning detail, while the updated controls and mechanics offer a smooth and responsive gameplay experience. Whether you're reliving the classic levels or discovering them for the first time, this remaster is a love letter to skateboarding enthusiasts everywhere.
1 BioShock: The Collection
Bioshock: The Collection: Immerse yourself once again in the underwater utopia of Rapture with the remastered version of Bioshock. This collection meticulously captures the dark and twisted atmosphere that made the original game so enthralling.
From the haunting echoes of Andrew Ryan's monologues to the eerie encounters with Big Daddies and Splicers, the remastered visuals bring the decaying beauty of Rapture to life, while the inclusion of all DLC content adds even more depth to the experience.
With improved textures and lighting effects, every detail shines, making it a must-play for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike.