Open-World Games That Need HD-2D Remakes

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Summary

  • Square Enix’s HD-2D style has revived classic RPGs like Live A Live and Dragon Quest 3, merging modern and retro graphics.
  • Games like Grand Theft Auto, Ultima 7, and River City Ransom could benefit from HD-2D remakes to enhance their visuals.
  • Fallout may also benefit from an HD-2D makeover, maintaining its classic gameplay but modernizing the graphics.

Ever since Octopath Traveler debuted, Square Enix has consistently produced a wealth of excellent role-playing games in their unique HD-2D visual style. These have ranged from fresh intellectual properties to remakes of timeless classics such as Live A Live and Dragon Quest 3. The collection of top-notch HD-2D games is expanding, with the original Dragon Quest games set for release, and titles like Triangle Strategy keeping gamers occupied. By blending contemporary graphical features such as dynamic lighting and intricate 3D backdrops with captivating 2D sprites, HD-2D successfully transports the allure of classic games into the current era.

Refreshing some timeless games using a contemporary art style might make them appealing for modern gamers, giving these classic titles a second chance. Many old-school games can be challenging for today’s or returning players, but updates to graphics and gameplay mechanics could breathe new life into them. Particularly, 2D games set in open worlds would greatly benefit from HD-2D remakes, enabling older gamers to revisit the captivating and immersive environments they once enjoyed, while also attracting new players who might be interested in giving these titles a try.

A few of the games listed here were initially categorized as open-world, but they might not meet today’s criteria for an open-world game based on contemporary definitions.

5. Grand Theft Auto

The Beginning Of The Juggernaut Series

The iconic game, known as “Grand Theft Auto“, came into existence due to a glitch that made cops excessively persistent in chasing criminals. Offering a top-down view to create a 3D impression of buildings and surroundings, the initial version of GTA marked the beginning of the 2D games within the series. Before and after its release, it stirred significant controversy but later grew into one of the most successful and cherished video game franchises.

Back in the day when I first played those classic 2D versions of Grand Theft Auto, they seemed a bit rudimentary compared to the HD releases we have now. A remake, using the HD-2D style, would breathe new life into the visuals, which were even considered a tad bland back in ’97. Re-visiting the original 2D cities like Liberty City, Vice City, and San Andreas would be quite intriguing for players to compare with their 3D counterparts. And let’s not forget about the possibility of recreating the two London expansions set in 1961 and 1969 as an exciting bonus, sparking even more curiosity within the GTA franchise!

4. Ultima 7: The Black Gate

Arguably The Best Game In The Pioneering Series

By 1992, the Ultima series had already made a significant impact, but some might argue that Ultima 7: The Black Gate stands as the franchise’s crowning achievement. The fantasy realm of Britannia is among the most immersive and interactive worlds in video game history, holding its own against those created in subsequent decades. Almost every item discovered within the world can be manipulated or interacted with in some way, a feat that would still impress gamers today. Furthermore, it was one of the first games to incorporate complex, branching dialogue trees.

In this game, players enjoy nearly unrestricted flexibility in choosing their playstyles, allowing them to assume various character roles as desired, with non-player characters typically responding appropriately. While it doesn’t strictly qualify as an open world game by today’s standards, it could be reworked in a potential remake. Many believe that the graphics, even by modern standards, remain captivating, but there’s always room for improvement. A high-definition 2D remake might introduce the Ultima series to a fresh audience.

3. River City Ransom

Open-World Beat ‘Em Up Action

Often recognized as “Downtown Nekketsu Story,” River City Ransom is a beat ’em up game that marks the third installment in the Kunio-kun series. In this game, you explore the open world of River City as high school students named Ryan and Alex. You can punch, kick, jump, and even use or toss weapons against your foes, who are members of various gangs similar to those depicted in the iconic movie The Warriors. Although it initially struggled to gain traction outside Japan, it is now widely regarded as a timeless classic and one of the greatest games ever created.

In this game, you can gain enhanced abilities and learn fresh combat strategies by gathering loot from vanquished foes and investing it to buy manuals. Over the years, numerous sequels and spin-offs have emerged, and what sets this apart among its contemporaries is its open-world setting and role-playing features. Despite being several decades old, the gameplay remains compelling, often outperforming its peers in the beat ’em up genre. A graphical update would not only maintain but also enhance the enduring legacy of River City Ransom.

2. The Legend Of Zelda

Explore Hyrule And Save Princess Zelda

One of the standout games from the 1980s and one that left a lasting impact on gaming, The Legend of Zelda, marks Link’s inaugural journey through the realm of Hyrule. The expansive landscape of Hyrule invites free exploration, and the game can be finished in various ways, giving rise to challenges such as completing it without the sword. Yet, there are some constraints to unrestricted movement; for instance, certain temples prove almost impassable if not conquered sequentially, and the final temple becomes accessible only after Link gathers all eight pieces of the Triforce of Wisdom.

The appealing visuals remain noticeable, but considering the progress made in the game series across 2D and 3D platforms, they seem somewhat outdated. However, it established the groundwork for the Zelda series as well as numerous other franchises, and incorporating HD-2D graphics could enhance its tight gameplay and engaging story, making it more contemporary with other standout games in the beloved franchise.

1. Fallout

Guiding The Vault Dweller Through The Wasteland For The First Time

The original “Fallout” game, played from an isometric viewpoint, laid the groundwork for the rest of the series by introducing its unique blend of a desolate landscape, ethically complex missions, and black comedy, adding a touch of levity to the generally grim post-apocalyptic world. Key elements such as the SPECIAL system, which significantly influences gameplay, were already in place here; this included character building, fighting off enemies, or interacting with non-player characters (NPCs).

In essence, the classic Fallout series, including its isometric predecessors, remains captivating and continues to draw in new gamers. An HD-2D update could significantly enhance the game’s visual appeal by making both the scenery and character designs stand out more distinctly. However, it might be beneficial to adjust the gameplay to suit modern players, while certain elements of the game, like the absence of a follower cap and the wealth of unique traits that boost role-playing opportunities, could prove valuable additions in the more recent Fallout games.

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2025-07-05 09:35