Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories Deserves a Modern Port

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The “Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection” revived several classic games, yet there’s one Yu-Gi-Oh! game that truly warrants a return. Given the enduring popularity of Yu-Gi-Oh! after two decades, it’s no wonder its video game library is extensive. The “Early Days Collection” honored this rich history, but numerous Yu-Gi-Oh! games were left out. One title, in particular, has built a strong reputation and deserves a comeback on modern consoles. It wasn’t part of the “Early Days Collection,” but it has more than proven its worth for such a release.

This compilation, named the “Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection“, gathers 14 unique “Yu-Gi-Oh” games initially launched for Game Boy consoles between 1998 and 2004. Majority of these were card games, including the pioneering “Duel Monsters” series that came before the official card game’s launch and followed their own set of rules. The collection also encompasses “Monster Capsule GB” and “Dungeon Dice Monsters“, which deviate from the traditional card game to pay homage to the series’ initial focus on various types of gaming. These games in the collection offer a starkly contrasting experience compared to “Yu-Gi-Oh Master Duel“, providing an intriguing perspective on the early days of “Yu-Gi-Oh“.

The initial “Yu-Gi-Oh” video game, titled “Yu-Gi-Oh Monster Capsule: Breed and Battle”, did not align with the traditional card game format.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories is a Prime Candidate For a Modern Port

Forbidden Memories May Be the Most Iconic Old Yu-Gi-Oh Game

One notable title absent from the Early Days Collection‘s catalog is one of the series’ most prominent – the PlayStation game Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories. This game adheres to the fundamental rules similar to early Duel Monsters titles, but with a few unique additions. The story unfolds in Ancient Egypt, where the protagonist, Pharaoh Atem, battles to avenge his family and prevent the malevolent high mage Heishin from seizing control of all Egypt. Forbidden Memories offers a distinct narrative that doesn’t directly align with the original Yu-Gi-Oh storyline, instead presenting an alternate account. Although it may not be considered canonical, it remains an enjoyable and testing adventure.

Forbidden Memories Still Has a Devoted Fanbase

The game titled “Forbidden Memories” stands out due to its lively and accomplished speedrunning community. Despite the challenging nature and substantial element of luck in “Forbidden Memories“, many speedrunners find it appealing to test their skills with this game. Additionally, challenge runners have discovered numerous enjoyable aspects of the game, attempting to conquer it using diverse themed decks. Although the mechanics of “Forbidden Memories” are relatively basic compared to contemporary versions of Yu-Gi-Oh, this doesn’t diminish its appeal. On the contrary, it serves as an attractive choice given how complex and rapid the card game has become now. Even after all these years, “Forbidden Memories” remains enjoyable for many players.

The Flaws of Forbidden Memories Could be Addressed in a Remaster

Refreshingly reimagining “Forbidden Memories” might help resolve some of its problems, much like how the enhancements in the “Early Days Collection” improved gameplay experience. One of the difficulties with “Forbidden Memories” is that certain cards could only be acquired through the Pocket Station, a peripheral exclusive to Japan. This made those sought-after cards unattainable for players worldwide, and it’s disappointing because many of them were truly exceptional. Additionally, while you could purchase cards using Starchips, the most powerful cards cost an astronomical 999,999 starchips – a sum that far exceeded what anyone could reasonably earn in-game. If these issues are tackled while maintaining the original game’s difficulty and formula, players could enjoy a superior version of “Forbidden Memories” than ever before.

It’s strongly argued that “Forbidden Memories” could benefit significantly from a remake, arguably more so than any other “Yu-Gi-Oh” game. Although gamers currently have “Master Duel” for contemporary “Yu-Gi-Oh”, “Forbidden Memories” serves as a delightful trip down memory lane to the earlier days of the series. Despite being one of the most challenging games on PlayStation, its gameplay has stood the test of time. In essence, “Forbidden Memories” would require minimal tweaks at most for a modern re-release. A remake of “Forbidden Memories” seems like an ideal step forward for the future of “Yu-Gi-Oh” games.

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2025-03-23 18:06