Discussions about how video games were better in the past have become increasingly common. The notion that modern games are simply designed as cash cows is quite widespread. Many also argue that the spirit of old games is absent in newer releases. While you might agree with most of these opinions, there’s no denying that it’s an excellent time to be a gamer, particularly if you hail from a time when you could experience history’s best games firsthand. Today, we’ll delve into a popular trend: The differences between Remake vs Remaster vs Reboot games.
Before we explain these three concepts with examples, we’d like to emphasise a crucial point. True, we can draw comparisons between video games and other storytelling mediums, but we mustn’t forget that games possess technical depth. Re-filming the already superb Lord of the Rings would serve little purpose. However, remaking the original Resident Evil 2, an exceptional game in its own right, offers an entirely different experience. With that clarified, let’s return to our primary focus.
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What Is a Remake?
Remakes involve reconstructing an old game from the ground up using a new game engine. For a project to qualify as a remake, it must undergo a complete technical overhaul – mere graphical adjustments won’t suffice. Generally, the original game’s developers undertake this process, though there are a few exceptions.
In remakes, the story stays largely unchanged, save for minor tweaks or additions. Rather, the focus is on replacing outdated mechanics with contemporary ones. Controls are updated, gameplay is modernised, and UI and HUD designs are entirely reimagined. Ultimately, the aim is to breathe new life into classic (And often legendary) games.
Several of the finest games in recent years have been remakes, which is fantastic news for those who grew up in the 90s or earlier. These players have had the opportunity to relive the magic of those unforgettable games from their childhood or teenage years, now in stunning modern versions. Here are a few standout remakes from the past few years:
- Resident Evil 4 (2023) – Metacritic: 93
- Demon’s Souls (2020) – Metacritic: 92
- Shadow of the Colossus (2018) – Metacritic: 91
- Resident Evil 2 (2019) – Metacritic: 91
- Dead Space (2023) – Metacritic: 89
- The Last of Us Part I – Metacritic: 88
- Black Mesa (2005) – Metacritic: 84
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What Is a Remaster?
Whenever a remaster project is announced, it often receives an initial wave of negative feedback. There’s a natural explanation for this, of course – it’s often marketed as a renewal product sold at full price. In many cases, this is accurate because numerous games don’t genuinely require remastering. So, what distinguishes a remake from a remaster?
Remasters typically involve games that aren’t particularly old, with the updates typically spanning one or two generations. For instance, a PlayStation 3 game might be revamped and resold on the PlayStation 4. Graphics are enhanced, technical issues are resolved, and support for higher resolutions is introduced.
Remaster projects retain the original game’s essence, undergoing only minor technical modifications. The storyline remains untouched, with no new dialogue or gameplay mechanics added. Essentially, the familiar old experience is adapted for more recent consoles or generations. A key feature of remasters is that they usually include all existing DLC. And this is where it stand on remake vs remaster battle. Here are some top-notch remaster games released in the past few years:
- The Last of Us Remastered – Metacritic: 95
- Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection – Metacritic: 86
- Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition – Metacritic: 85
- Dark Souls Remastered – Metacritic: 84
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What Is a Reboot?
Reboots involve resetting the narrative of a previously released game or game series. Technically, they bear a strong resemblance to remakes. A new game engine is employed, fresh mechanics are introduced, and the UI and HUD are entirely revamped. Essentially, a brand new modern game is developed from scratch. Unlike remakes, reboots feature completely overhauled storylines. While some original characters or locations may be retained, the overall narrative differs.
This is precisely why there was confusion surrounding the 2018 release of God of War. Many were anxious that Kratos’ story would be reset. Thankfully, it was later revealed that the game wasn’t a reboot. While Kratos now exists outside of Greek mythology and the setting has shifted, his story carries on. Here are some exceptional reboot games from recent years:
- Tomb Raider (2013) – Metacritic: 86
- DmC: Devil May Cry (2013) – Metacritic: 85
- Hitman (2016) – Metacritic: 84
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) – Metacritic: 80
- Star Wars Battlefront (2015) – Metacritic: 78
For the time being, that covers our comparison of remake vs remaster vs reboot. It’s worth noting that reboot projects are far less numerous. In the contest between remake vs remaster, our preference leans towards remakes. But let’s not forget – fantastic remasters can be enjoyable as well if they come with 60FPS support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Last of Us Part I a Remake or Remaster?
The Last of Us Part I is a remake developed entirely anew. Set for release in 2022, the game stays faithful to the original narrative but has been reimagined in all other aspects. Naughty Dog harnesses the full power of the PS5 for this title, which is undoubtedly among the console’s finest games. On the other hand, The Last of Us Remastered is a 2014 remaster of the original game, created for the PS4. So, while the two titles aren’t identical, one falls into the remake category, and the other is considered a remaster.
What Is the Best Game Remake Ever?
In 2023, we can suggest two standout titles vying for the accolade of best game remake ever. First up is Demon’s Souls, initially released in 2020. This is an enhanced, modernised rendition of FromSoftware’s 2009 masterpiece in every aspect. Players seeking the ultimate Souls-like experience should consider starting with this game. The second contender is Resident Evil 4 Remake, which debuted this year. Boasting superb graphics and updated mechanics, it takes the original game to new heights in every conceivable way.
What Is the Most Exciting Upcoming Remake Game?
Numerous remakes are slated for release in 2023 and beyond, featuring some of the top games from the 90s and 2000s. Max Payne 1 and Max Payne 2 will be remade as a single title through a collaboration between Remedy and Rockstar. System Shock, one of the most iconic FPS games, is set to launch in May 2023 in a fully remake guise. We can also look forward to remakes of The Witcher, Silent Hill 2, and Splinter Cell in the coming years.
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- My journey into the world of video games began at four, when I was first introduced to arcade machines in 1996. Over the past decades, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible evolution of gaming, as it has grown from a niche hobby to a thriving art. Today, I'm dedicated to creating content that celebrates all genres of games. We will talk about them at Player.me.
