Revive These Forgotten Xbox 360 Gems for a New Generation!

Summary

Xbox 360 classics like Ace Combat 6 and Condemned 2 deserve recompilation for modern systems.
Recompilation technology like XenonRecomp offers hope for overlooked titles to make a comeback.
Games like Fable II and Lost Odyssey could shine on modern hardware with a recompilation.

The Xbox 360 boasted an extraordinary collection of games, yet numerous top-tier titles find themselves marooned on outdated equipment with no formal means to run them on contemporary systems. Be it due to removal, lack of porting, or the passage of time, these games merit a second chance, and thanks to recent advancements in recompilation technology, they might have one. The XenonRecomp tool, which translates Xbox 360 executables into C++ code, has already caused a stir by facilitating an unofficial Sonic Unleashed PC port, and since this tool is open to the public, it’s only a matter of time before enthusiasts focus their efforts on other timeless favorites.

10. Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation

The One That Got Left Behind

Ace Combat 6 is a game that truly deserves more recognition. Known as one of the greatest arcade flight simulations ever crafted, it was exclusively launched on Xbox 360. Sadly, there has been no PC version or modern console re-release, leaving only the original disc gathering dust in many homes. This game offers players a chance to engage in intense dogfights above expansive, lifelike battlefields, execute multi-stage air-to-ground combat, and perform stunning maneuvers reminiscent of the iconic Top Gun movies.

Unfortunately, subsequent installments from the Ace Combat series have been made available for PC gaming, whereas Fires of Liberation hasn’t received the same treatment. Even today, this game stands out with its expansive, visually appealing landscapes and breathtaking skyboxes that elevate every mission to a grand scale. At present, the only options to play it outside of an original Xbox 360 are through backward compatibility on an Xbox One or Series X|S. However, a PC port would provide it with the opportunity to truly fly at its best.

9. Condemned 2: Bloodshot

A Lost Horror Classic

Enthusiasts of psychological horror genres understand that “Condemned 2: Bloodshot” is not just another first-person combat game; instead, it stands out as one of the most intensely engaging horror games from its time. The original “Condemned” was launched for PCs, but oddly enough, its sequel never followed suit, making it one of the more elusive horror gaming treasures to obtain today.

In terms of physical combat, the game remains one of the most intense experiences in gaming, as each blow, strike, and weapon swing feels heavy and brutal. Players take on the role of Ethan Thomas, a character whose descent into madness mirrors the game’s increasingly unsettling tone. The recent addition of supernatural horror elements, along with an unusual drinking mechanic, has only intensified the fear factor in this game. Scenes like the infamous “mannequin scene” are so disturbing that they might make any player hesitate before turning off the lights. (Bloodshot is the name of the game.)

Rerunning this once more wouldn’t merely be beneficial for conservation; rather, it would be an appealing present for horror enthusiasts who missed out on the chilling impact it had initially.

8. Saints Row

The Streets Need Saints Row Back

Before the Saints Row series delved into complete chaos with superpowers and extraterrestrial elements, it was a gritty open-world crime epic that gave Grand Theft Auto a run for its money. The inaugural game, known simply as Saints Row, remained exclusive to the Xbox 360. Each subsequent installment made its way to PC, but the original game that sparked it all? Remains stuck in the past.

This game served as the foundation for one of the most adored open-world series, boasting elements such as customization, gang conflicts, and intense gunfights. Despite subsequent releases expanding in size and craziness, Saints Row retained a down-to-earth appeal through its emphasis on street crime and territory management, aspects that were eventually phased out.

Refreshing the game would offer fans a chance to explore the origins of the series and, most notably, enjoy it without needing an ancient gaming system. Since the latest Saints Row revamp didn’t resonate strongly with longtime supporters, this could serve as an excellent opportunity to remind players why the franchise gained popularity in the initial stages.

7. Blue Dragon

A Forgotten RPG Treasure

A game in the style of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPG), developed by Hironobu Sakaguchi – the creator of Final Fantasy, boasting character designs from Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball and music composed by Nobuo Uematsu, was exclusively launched for Xbox 360. Known as Blue Dragon, this was Microsoft’s initial significant attempt to attract JRPG enthusiasts. Although it didn’t achieve the same level of popularity as Final Fantasy, Blue Dragon gained a devoted following among those who played it and became a cherished title within that group.

The game’s distinctive battle system, enabling players to amplify attacks for greater impact, infused battles with additional tactical depth. Additionally, the shadow-infused skills provided a unique twist to character development. Essentially, it’s an old-school RPG with a turn-based format, offering a sprawling narrative, vibrant characters, and a world that strikes a balance between the familiar and the innovative.

Compiling anew will set it free from the confines of console gaming, offering fresh gamers an opportunity to savor a delightful JRPG that warrants far more affection than it currently receives.

6. Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts

The Most Misunderstood Banjo-Kazooie Game

Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, undoubtedly, stirred up quite the debate within the series community. Instead of sticking with traditional platforming, it veered into the realm of vehicle construction, which left many longtime fans a bit taken aback. However, for those willing to give it a try, it provided an exceptionally creative playground where players could design and modify outlandish machines to conquer challenges in novel ways.

The main issue with this game lies in its lack of a suitable audience. Unfortunately, it was launched when gamers were craving another traditional Banjo platformer instead of a physics-based vehicle creator. However, upon reflection, its unique features and depth warrant a reconsideration. The vehicle construction aspect was truly innovative for its time, offering an exceptional degree of customization. Despite not meeting the expectations for a Banjo game, it retained the same endearing charm, humor, and likable characters.

Recompiling a PC version of “Nuts & Bolots” could offer an ideal opportunity to present this game to a fresh audience – one who may now fully grasp the vision behind Rare’s creation.

5. Project Gotham Racing 4

The Best Racer You Can’t Play

Enthusiasts of racing games often claim that Project Gotham Racing 4 stood out in a unique way. It managed to blend the excitement of arcade-style racing with a touch of realism to keep things intriguing, and its Kudos system recognized not just speed, but also stylish driving techniques. The selection of vehicles was impressive, the choice of tracks varied, and the inclusion of motorcycles added an extra layer of complexity.

The issue lies in that the game is restricted to the Xbox 360, and there’s no recognized method to play it on contemporary equipment. Unlike Forza, which has persisted, Project Gotham Racing (PGR) was essentially forgotten. With the Forza Horizon series dominating the arcade racing genre, PGR didn’t receive the farewell it should have.

A fresh compilation isn’t merely about resurrecting a remarkable racing game; it’s about breathing new life into a series that countless gamers continue to regard as a genre standout.

4. Asura’s Wrath

The Game That Asked, “What If Anime, But More?”

In my gaming experience, Asura’s Wrath felt like stepping into an intense anime reality. This Capcom gem, a cult favorite, seamlessly merged epic storytelling with ludicrous action sequences that had me battling gods while they flung planets around, and unleashing rage-fueled powers that defied the very laws of reason. Beneath the pandemonium, there was a heartwarming narrative about betrayal and revenge, drawing inspiration from Hindu and Buddhist mythos.

Despite its outstanding quality, Asura’s Wrath was overshadowed and didn’t receive a PC version or a satisfying conclusion. The real ending was hidden within DLC. A recompilation could provide the complete narrative, upgrade its graphics, and present this exhilarating extravaganza to contemporary gamers. With games like Metal Gear Rising receiving significant acclaim in recent times, now seems an ideal moment to reacquaint players with one of gaming’s most outrageous yet endearing action epics.

3. Forza Horizon

The Festival That Started A Franchise

Initially, Forza Horizon was not the open-world racing titan we know today; instead, it started as a daring spin-off that reshaped the series. Instead of sticking to race tracks, it moved the action to a fictionalized Colorado landscape, offering players an exhilarating taste of street racing with the precision handling that Forza is known for. The blend of festival atmosphere, licensed tunes, and visually stunning surroundings made it a unique, memorable adventure.

However, you can’t play Forza Horizon today unless you possess an Xbox 360 disc due to licensing issues causing its digital removal from the market. It’s the only game in the series that didn’t transition to PC. A remastered version could safeguard its legacy, offering modern gamers a chance to relive the origins of the Horizon festival with enhanced visuals, smoother gameplay, and a return to the neon-lit splendor of the original event.

2. Fable 2

The Fantasy Epic That Xbox Forgot

In a nutshell, Fable 2 is renowned as one of the greatest RPGs ever produced, yet it saw daylight exclusively on Xbox 360. It transformed Albion into a dynamic, lively environment where each decision influenced your character’s destiny, be it saving villagers or, significantly, chasing after chickens. The fighting incorporated swords, firearms, and sorcery, but the game’s essence lay in its humor, emotional intensity, and, needless to say, the cherished canine companion.

A fresh remake might at last bring Fable 2 the recognition it warrants. Updated technology could streamline its outdated mechanics, rectify performance issues, and allow its enchanting, fairy-tale setting to truly sparkle. With Fable preparing for a spectacular comeback, there’s never been a more opportune moment to remind players about why this series was once the cornerstone of Xbox’s RPG catalog.

1. Lost Odyssey

The Best JRPG Nobody Played

Not many role-playing games pack as much punch as the one called Lost Odyssey. Crafted by Hironobu Sakaguchi, the mind behind Final Fantasy, this exclusive title for Xbox is a JRPG that follows Kaim, an immortal fighter struggling under the weight of centuries worth of memories. Its combat system, based on turns, was intricate yet reminiscent of the familiar, and its “Thousand Years of Dreams” series of short stories offered some of gaming’s most heart-wrenching narratives.

Although Lost Odyssey showcased exceptional quality, it never made the transition to PC platforms, remaining confined to aging hardware. A remastered version could potentially introduce it to a broader player base, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in its captivating soundtrack, emotional storyline, and intricate world. This overlooked gem deserves another opportunity to shine.

2025-04-02 06:10