10 Forgotten EA Games That Deserve A Remake

Regardless of personal opinions about Electronic Arts, it’s undeniable that they have a significant history within the gaming industry, having been established for quite some time.

Since its establishment in 1982, Electronic Arts (EA) has been instrumental in creating or distributing many beloved video games, particularly in the early days of PC gaming. In fact, it’s hard to imagine that PC gaming would have grown as significantly as it did without EA’s involvement.

A significant number of these games possess strong foundations that could be perfect candidates for a complete overhaul, tailored to contemporary standards. Whether Electronic Arts (EA) might ever provide such remakes is another question altogether, but it’s not hard to imagine what they could look like if they did.

10. Ultima

A Defining Tentpole Of RPGs

The Ultima series was created by Richard Garriott, a fan of tabletop role-playing games, and his company, Origin Systems. Although the initial game was independently published, Electronic Arts (EA) took care of the port for the IBM PC version and later acquired Origin in 1992, making it essentially an EA production.

Initially, Ultima significantly shaped the conventions and motifs that would define computer gameplay, especially role-playing games (RPGs), for an extended period. Furthermore, it was among the earliest open-world games developed, a noteworthy accomplishment in its own right.

As a die-hard fan, I find myself pondering over the idea of going completely 3D for a remake. However, given that the quality of the Ultima series seemed to decline as it approached 3D gaming, I can’t help but think that keeping things more traditional might be the wisest choice.

9. Wing Commander

Remarkably Advanced For Its Era

Origin Systems, which is now owned by Electronic Arts, produced Wing Commander, a game that was one of the most successful titles in the MS-DOS gaming world during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The game spawned several sequels and also inspired both an animated TV series and a full-length feature film.

Even though it was a game from the DOS era, it was remarkably sophisticated for its time, boasting full animations and intricate character artwork. Notably, it offered groundbreaking space dogfighting action, complete with advanced weapon management and accurate targeting of enemy ships.

Although space dogfights might not seem as fresh and exciting as they once did, a new version could still captivate audiences who appreciate realism.

8. Skate Or Die!

EA’s First Internally-Developed Game

Skate or Die marked Electronic Arts’ (EA) initial solo venture in game development and publication. This pioneering title was made available across a wide range of personal computer platforms, such as MS-DOS, Apple II, Commodore 64, among others.

The idea is quite simple, offering five unique skateboarding competitions for you to jump in and perform some thrilling aerial stunts. The events encompass freestyle ramps, speedy downhill races, lofty jumps, and additional challenges.

In recent times, skateboarding games seem to have taken a backseat. However, this lull could be the opportune moment for Skate or Die to make a thrilling return and reignite our passion once more!

7. James Pond: Underwater Agent

We Always Need More Silly Mascots

The game “James Pond” was a popular side-scrolling title that was initially created by Millennium Interactive, who are no longer in operation. Its initial release was on systems such as the Amiga and Atari ST. However, the version for the Genesis console was developed by Electronic Arts (EA) instead.

You might’ve guessed already, but the game is rich with nods to James Bond, evident in its level titles as well as an unexpectedly tuneful soundtrack.

Initially, the game wasn’t particularly unique, but subsequent versions introduced intriguing elements such as adaptable armor and useful objects for players to utilize.

If we could combine all these elements into an updated version of the original, we might create something truly extraordinary.

6. Mutant League Hockey

We Got Football, Next Is Hockey

1994 saw the release of Mutant League Hockey, an exhilarating sports title created and distributed by Electronic Arts. This game serves as a sequel to the popular Mutant League Football from the previous year.

At first glance, it seems like a typical hockey match, but much like its predecessor, it introduces numerous unexpected elements such as explosive pucks, cracks in the ice, power-ups, and even the option to brutally defeat your opponents.

Since Mutant Football League got a spiritually equivalent game in 2017 with Mutant Football League, it’s long overdue for Mutant League Hockey to get the same kind of treatment.

5. American McGee’s Alice

Delightfully Twisted

Originating from Rogue Entertainment, which no longer exists, and published by EA, American McGee’s Alice can arguably be considered one of the darkest adaptations of Alice in Wonderland ever produced. This is quite a significant statement to make.

Alice, an action game, shares the same foundation as Quake III Arena. It’s set against a twisted and madcap version of Wonderland as its backdrop.

The young woman employs weapons such as the Vorpal Blade and a Croquet Mallet, found within the pages of her books, to subdue and overpower Wonderland’s distorted inhabitants and regain dominance over her own thoughts.

Instead of wishing for the revived sequel of Alice: Madness Returns, a remake of its original version would be equally satisfying. The original game could truly benefit from an update to accommodate various control options beyond just a mouse and keyboard setup.

4. Black & White

The Very Definition Of “God Game”

2001 marked the debut of “Black & White,” a game created by Lionhead Studios, which was established by renowned video game creator Peter Molyneux for the second time, with Electronic Arts (EA) acting as the publisher.

In “Black & White”, you assume the role of an almighty deity governing an island filled with possible followers. Two celestial beings, one representing love and the other symbolizing cruelty, stand by your side, allowing you to shape your civilization through kindness or harshness in this god game taken to its ultimate level.

After releasing one sequel in 2005, the game Black & White began to take a backseat as Lionhead Studios dedicated more attention to their Fable series. Since Fable is set for a reboot in 2025, it would be fitting to give some attention to Black & White too.

3. SSX Tricky

Not The First, But Arguably The Best

The game known as SSX Tricky is the second title in Electronic Arts’ SSX collection of snowboarding video games, which was launched in 2001 for consoles like GameCube, PS2, and original Xbox. Although it wasn’t the initial release within the series, it’s undoubtedly the one that most gamers have experienced.

Enhancing upon the straightforward snowboard racing dynamics presented in the initial SSX, Tricky offers some captivating enhancements such as spectacular “Uber Tricks” and a competitive AI-driven adversarial system within its campaign, alongside the thrilling landscapes of diverse tracks.

Following Tricky, additional SSX games were released, yet none managed to achieve the same level of success. Consequently, frequent calls for a Tricky remake or enhancement persist. However, as per the game’s original creator, there are numerous bureaucratic hurdles that need to be navigated.

2. Cel Damage

The Finest In Cartoon Violence

Cel Damage is a game resembling demolition derbies, created by Pseudo Interactive and published by Electronic Arts. Released in 2001 on Xbox, it was later adapted for the Nintendo GameCube in 2002.

In this game, numerous participants are set within a grand, action-packed stage filled with fun gadgets. They’re then unleashed to wage war against each other using an array of whimsical weapons. It’s incredibly enjoyable to engage in with friends, pushing them into a grain harvester or sending them tumbling down a moveable pit.

In 2014 for the PS4, 2016 for Xbox One, and 2019 for Switch, an HD-enhanced version of the game was launched. Unfortunately, this edition missed a key feature: it lacked online multiplayer functionality. It’s essential that we get a genuine remake to rectify this issue and potentially introduce more twisted cartoon characters for us to play with.

1. Spare Parts

Make Sure To Get Simon Pegg Back

2011 saw the launch of Spare Parts, an action-packed cooperative platformer. This game was both developed and distributed by Electronic Arts (EA). Unlike their larger releases, Spare Parts was a more modest project, available only for digital purchase through Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network.

Two robots find themselves stuck on a distant planet and must collaborate to leap and strike their way back to populated areas. The game didn’t create a massive impact, but it did receive acclaim for its enjoyable and cheerful atmosphere. This positive reception was further enhanced by comprehensive voice-overs provided by comedian and actor Simon Pegg throughout the entire game.

A significant improvement a remake should aim for is an upgrade to its gameplay mechanics, incorporating a wider range of engaging features. If the gameplay could resemble that of Astro Bot, and if possible, bring Pegg back as the voice actor, it could potentially become a major success.

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2025-01-17 19:39