10 Forgotten Xbox 360 Games That Need A Remake

As a passionate gaming enthusiast, I’d say the Xbox 360 held an unrivaled reputation, especially among us western gamers, during the seventh console generation. Although the Nintendo Wii reigned supreme financially, the Xbox 360 was undeniably the cool kid on the block.

The console boasted an impressive array of games, both from well-known publishers and smaller ones. Its strength lay in Xbox Live Arcade, and it excelled particularly at online gameplay, a feature that grew increasingly important over time.

In the end, the 360 held its own quite well, leaving a lasting impression with numerous beloved games spanning all genres. Remarkably, many of these games have persisted in the current era through porting and remaking.

To put it simply, there’s always some fantastic games hidden among the others in the 360 library. Some of these were exclusive to the 360 while others were also available on PS3. These are the games that we loved playing on the 360 and would be delighted to play again if they were remade.

10. Kameo: Elements Of Power

More Rare Games, Please

After Microsoft purchased Rare in 2002, the esteemed studio experienced a slight decrease in productivity as it explored innovative paths to stand out from the norm.

One of its longest-running projects was Kameo: Elements of Power, a game that had been in the works since the era of Nintendo 64 and finally came out on Xbox 360 in 2005.

In this game, the main attraction was Kameo’s skill to morph into numerous magical beings, each powered by five distinct elements such as a wintry yeti or a flaming dragon. This metamorphosis could be quickly changed during gameplay, serving both for combats and solving puzzles.

2015’s Rare Replay compilation featured Kameo among its collection of major titles from Rare’s past library, excluding those developed for Nintendo.

It’s enjoyable as it is, but it would be even better if the game could get a remake tailored for a particular device, rather than continuously adjusting it for a new one.

9. Enslaved: Odyssey To The West

We’re In A Wukong Boom

Is there any tale as enduringly popular as the epic “Journey to the West“? Considering the significant acclaim of “Black Myth: Wukong“, it’s safe to assume that many find enjoyment in watching a character resembling a monkey engage in fierce battles.

Black Myyth isn’t the sole game that drew inspiration from Journey to the West’s themes, as Enslaved: Odyssey to the West preceded it in this regard.

In this interstellar adventure, our fittingly named hero, Monkey, is tasked with guiding his reluctant companion, Tripitaka, back to her residence following a spacecraft accident.

In this game, you manage Monkey for the fight, jumping, and puzzle parts. Meanwhile, Tripitaka assists with hacking and diversion tasks. It’s crucial to safeguard Tripitaka because her demise will result in Monkey’s as well. If Monkey strays too far without her, she’ll explode his slave device.

Since high-intensity escort missions are less popular nowadays, a remake of this game might require softening some of those intense elements a bit. This would imply that Trip allows you a bit more freedom to wander off, and also improves her ability to defend herself during dangerous situations.

8. Lost Odyssey

Magic And Machinery

On the Xbox 360, Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) were less prominent compared to the PS3. Given that it was a primarily western console, games like “Fallout” and “The Elder Scrolls” were more prominently featured because they are western RPGs. However, it wasn’t completely devoid of Japanese adventures; for instance, there was “Lost Odyssey”.

The style of gameplay resembles classic Final Fantasy games from the PlayStation 2 era, featuring expansive landscapes and bustling cities teeming with Non-Player Characters (NPCs) for interactions, story progression, and environment enrichment.

In battles, timing plays a crucial role, as spells take two rounds for casting and strikes necessitate a mini-game based on timing to connect. Furthermore, the game encourages you to vary your team setup, since linking Immortal and Mortal characters enhances their overall performance.

Though it shares some resemblances with other games of its era, there’s undoubtedly a fanbase eager for a role-playing game similar to “Lost Odyssey“. A remake could potentially enhance certain narrative moments that move at a slower pace, making it more appealing.

7. Remember Me

Not The Robert Pattinson Movie

Over the years, Capcom has created and released numerous hit games that have left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. Given its global prominence as a gaming brand, it’s understandable that some of its extensive library might not receive the attention they deserve.

One of the games is the 2013 title “Remember Me”, and I’ll try my best to avoid any cheesy puns. “Remember Me” is a blend of action and platforming genres, where you alternate between investigating linear environments and engaging in intense battles within spacious arenas.

The central idea in both instances is memory, which can be manipulated to master mechanical devices and weaponry, design personalized combat sequences, and even pirate thoughts. Additionally, it showcased a captivating cyberpunk style while delving into the exploitation of mental property.

A revamped version might maintain the overall storyline and visual style of the game, but with a special focus on enhancing its memory mechanisms for a more engaging experience. To prevent monotony, aspects beyond the unique combo system could use an added touch of excitement.

6. Blue Dragon

Another Piece Of Toriyama’s Legacy

If someone asked for a role-playing game that features artwork by the late and renowned Akira Toriyama, you’d most likely mention “Dragon Quest” or “Chrono Trigger”, wouldn’t you?

Additionally, it’s not just Dragon Ball Z where Toriyama showcased his extraordinary skills; he also worked on a game that sometimes gets overlooked – Blue Dragon.

In a classic role-playing game (JRPG) style, “Blue Dragon” features a group of spirited explorers taking on an evil tyrant in a magical realm. What sets it apart is its unique Shadow system: each character possesses a potent shadow that grants class-specific powers.

In a flexible system, every shadow can be categorized into a non-combat role, and capabilities earned from one category can be transferred to another, similar to the Archetypes seen in Metaphor: ReFantazio.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve always cherished my memories of Blue Dragon. It’s got a special place in my heart since it’s one of those games that took me on an unforgettable journey. I was thrilled when it had not one, but two sequels, both for the DS. However, neither seemed to make as big an impression as the original did.

Now, I can’t help but wonder if there’s a chance we could revisit this classic game, given that the legendary Akira Toriyama has moved on. It would be truly amazing to get another piece of his remarkable work and experience Blue Dragon once more.

5. The Saboteur

Open-World War II

In the sixth and seventh console generations, games based on World War II combat dominated the market, with series such as Call of Duty and Medal of Honor generating significant revenue. Eventually, interest shifted towards more contemporary settings.

One game from that era is 2009’s “The Saboteur,” which doesn’t fall under the first-person shooter category. This game is based on World War II’s Nazi-occupied Paris, where your character, Sean, endeavors to undermine the Nazi soldiers and instigate the people to revolt.

In the city, areas are divided into districts. As you disrupt, attack, and obstruct Nazi activities, the people in each district will gradually regain their faith and collaborate with you to drive them out completely.

In the game, areas under Nazi control are depicted in black and white, while freed territories return to full color.

Should “The Saboteur” be redeveloped in the future, addressing and eliminating any existing bugs would undeniably be a priority. The original game was released at a time when its developer was on the brink of closure, resulting in a noticeably glitchy and rough product. By ironing out these issues, we can ensure a polished and enjoyable experience for players.

4. Rise Of Nightmares

Probably Doesn’t Need Motion Controls

Back in 2010, when Microsoft’s Kinect was launched for the 360, it didn’t exactly take the world by storm. The motion control it offered wasn’t always accurate, and the majority of games designed for it were rather dull and overly simplistic.

While there were some exemptions to this rule, one notable example was the game “Rise of Nightmares“. This action-horror title stood out as it was the initial M-rated game specifically designed for use with the Kinect, offering quite an exhilarating experience.

With the Kinect controls, you’ll engage in fierce battles against cybernetic zombies and dodge colossal lethal obstacles. Accurate aiming was essential, as it was crucial to strike the vulnerable, non-armored areas of these monsters.

Instead of being particularly frightening, it was a joyful, campy spectacle due to the vast array of unusual weapons available for selection.

It’s not surprising that the Kinect controls were a major issue for gamers. If there was a remake, it might be wiser to opt for conventional first-person combat akin to games like Resident Evil 7 or Village.

3. Brutal Legend

Heavy-Metal RTS

Brutal Legend” marked Double Fine’s second significant console launch after the original “Psychonauts”. It garnered attention primarily due to its striking heavy metal theme, and Jack Black lent his voice to the game’s main character, Eddie Riggs.

Contrary to what the game’s promotions and trial suggested, the final version turned out to be quite distinct from the conventional hack ‘n slash style.

In essence, the main gameplay mechanism in “Brutal Legend” is similar to a third-person strategy title. As your character, who just so happens to be armed with a guitar, you command units that appear from geysers, each emitting ghostly fans. By harnessing their rock energy, you summon larger and more powerful troops.

When required, feel free to step onto the stage personally and play an impressive solo that would figuratively make your opponents’ expressions melt away.

In the original marketing strategy, the multiplayer aspect of the Real-Time Strategy (RTS) game was intended to be its primary attraction. However, Electronic Arts (EA) chose to downplay this feature in their advertisements due to concerns about a potential poor response. This decision led to an inconsistency between the expected and delivered gameplay experience. If there’s ever a remake of this game, it should either heavily emphasize the RTS elements from the start or focus entirely on action-oriented gameplay to avoid repeating the same disconnect.

2. Infinite Undiscovery

The World Keeps Turning

As role-playing games (RPGs) expand and grow more complex, there’s an increasing tendency for their worlds to exhibit independent life, regardless of whether players are interacting with them directly. This isn’t a novel idea, as many games such as Infinite Undiscovery have already showcased this concept.

In this expansive role-playing game, a single individual’s actions significantly shape the destiny of the entire world. Your decisions, woven throughout the narrative, have profound and far-reaching consequences, both major and minor. Sometimes, even seemingly trivial acts can set off a chain reaction that unfolds unnoticed.

In a hands-on scenario, particularly during battles, it’s just your main character that you personally control. The remainder of your substantial team is automated by artificial intelligence. Your task is to direct and synchronize all members effectively, in real-time.

The initial response to “Infinite Undiscovery” was moderately average, with players finding it enjoyable but not particularly exceptional. A remake could benefit from a touch more excitement or unique features that would help set it apart, particularly when compared to the numerous other titles under Square Enix’s umbrella.

1. The Gunstringer

Arcade-Style Puppet Show

Some Kinect games were overly ambitious, but a few managed to function decently within the motion control format. Interestingly, when a game is designed to be straightforward and reminiscent of arcade games like “The Gunstringer“, it becomes simpler to incorporate unconventional control methods. Apparently, simplicity can make way for the strange!

The Gunstringer can be described as a conventional rail shooter game that boasts a captivating visual style, presented in the form of a grand and intricate puppet theater set in the Wild West.

In this game, you’ll find yourself controlling the title character, who happens to be an undead sheriff. Instead of walking, he moves autonomously. Your task is to aim and shoot at the bad guys using a reticle. During intense scenes, the gameplay might change, requiring you to take cover while firing a shotgun or dodging rolling boulders instead.

In the case where the motion controls turned out to be less noticeable than expected, a potential remake might choose to maintain this approach, whether on Nintendo Switch or in Virtual Reality. Conversely, an alternative option would be to use a control stick for the reticle, which wouldn’t significantly alter the experience.

2025-03-28 17:11