Video Game Remakes That Change The Original Story

Key Takeaways

Great remakes can make changes while capturing the original spirit, as seen in Resident Evil HD Remaster.
Black Mesa transformed from a fan project into a commercial remake with Valve’s approval, expanding gameplay elements.
Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth diverges significantly from the original, offering expanded content that enhances the player’s experience.

As a seasoned gamer with over three decades of gaming under my belt, I must say that these remakes are nothing short of remarkable! The way developers have managed to breathe new life into these classic games while staying true to their roots is truly commendable.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve noticed a surge in the return of beloved games, not just in high-definition 2D RPGs or lavish reboots of classics from yesteryears. Remakes have been around for nearly as long as gaming generations themselves, and it seems like every major publisher is giving it a shot with their vintage titles. The allure of advanced technology has proven hard to resist, enticing many in the industry to breathe new life into some of our cherished classics from the past.

As a passionate admirer, I must confess, taking on the task of remaking a cherished classic isn’t without its challenges. Some versions are criticized for veering too far from the original, while others face accusations of being overly faithful. It seems like no matter what route developers choose, they can’t seem to please everyone. Nevertheless, these controversies only serve to highlight that a masterful remake has the freedom to make any alterations its creators deem fit, as long as it manages to preserve the essence of the original and offers players a compelling reason to re-enter these iconic worlds.

9. Resident Evil HD Remaster

Setting The Bar

The “Resident Evil HD Remaster” was essentially a revamped edition of the original game from 2002 that was initially launched on GameCube, although many gamers might recognize this version due to its re-release on PlayStation and Xbox in 2015. In 2002, it truly pushed the boundaries of what a remake could achieve by altering and improving upon the original game.

In the remake of the GameCube version, not only were there extra bosses and story segments included, but a seemingly minor adjustment to an ordinary enemy also drastically altered the survival horror game’s equilibrium. The “Crimson Heads” have since become famous enemies in the Resident Evil series, thanks to their unique feature: to permanently eliminate them, you need to burn them, which transforms into a resource management mini-game of its own.

8. Black Mesa

From Fan Project To Full Remake

The evolution of Black Mesa is an extraordinary tale. Initially conceived as a fan-made endeavor to craft a Half-Life remaster that Valve hadn’t produced, it morphed into a professional, commercially successful remake, backed and approved by Valve themselves.

As a fan, I can’t contain my excitement! This project took an incredible leap in scale, transforming beyond my wildest expectations. The 2020 release wasn’t just about aesthetics; it revamped graphics and textures, overhauled enemy AI, introduced fresh storylines, extended the map layout, and added intriguing new puzzles to solve. What truly blew me away was the ambitious expansion of the game’s climactic chapter, which unfolds on the alien world of Xen.

Due to the meticulous work of developers Crowbar Collective, the remake seems more like experiencing Half-Life anew rather than a repeat playthrough. The affection towards the original content is palpable throughout the game, and the expansions largely feel organic and augment the overall enjoyment.

7. Final Fantasy 7: Remake

Deviations In The Timeline

In the initial section of Final Fantasy 7 Remake, players are led back to a stage not unlike that experienced in its predecessor. Here, the party embarks on an exodus from Midgar, which marked the beginning of the original game. However, this departure is significantly broadened, and even seemingly familiar occurrences undergo modifications and enhancements.

To put it simply, what sets this remake apart is the extensive modifications and new elements introduced compared to the original occurrences. Most of the gameplay consists of significantly enlarged sections based on their original versions or completely novel additions designed exclusively for the remake.

In summary, the game follows many of the same plot points as the original version, but it’s clear that it’s not just a simple rehash. The battles have been adapted to include action elements, yet they still preserve the tactical appeal of the original combat by maintaining the ATB system in an appealing manner.

6. Metroid: Zero Mission

How To Revitalize A Classic

Metroid: Zero Mission has reached an age where some gamers are clamoring for a contemporary reboot. Back then, it stood out as a superb illustration of how to revamp an initial installment of an older franchise to make it comparable with its more recent counterparts.

Apart from an aesthetic improvement, it also introduces fresh gameplay scenarios, unexplored regions, and enhanced capabilities for Samus. Significantly, the shift to the Game Boy Advance platform enabled the inclusion of cinematic sequences, thereby enriching the portrayal of the original game’s world and characters.

5. Dead Space

Isaac Finds His Voice

In the Dead Space remake, one of the most significant alterations is undeniably giving Isaac Clarke a voice. This change was necessary because after providing him with a voice in the sequels, it would have felt odd to revert back to a silent protagonist. However, when compared directly, the Dead Space remake incorporates more modifications than many players might realize.

In the original game, players often recall dismantling Necromorphs; however, the gore and dismemberment in the remake is significantly more realistic and responsive. Players can rip and pulverize flesh, and the dismemberment is more dynamic. This enhances the combat experience, which now feels sleeker and smoother than before, yet maintains Isaac’s weighty and deliberate movements.

Isaac’s travel through the Ishimura in this version shows subtle yet significant modifications, making it challenging for those who haven’t played the original since its launch to distinguish between the new and the old elements. Despite these alterations, the game manages to maintain a strong resemblance to the original while introducing numerous changes collectively.

4. Resident Evil 4

Leon’s Looking Good

For some time now, enthusiasts have been eagerly requesting Capcom for an updated take on the classic game Resident Evil 4. The 2023 remake undeniably met these expectations, offering a visually breathtaking rendition of the original layout. However, it also made more alterations to the narrative, action sequences, and tempo of the adventure than most fans had anticipated.

In other words, some adjustments sparked disagreements, especially Ashley’s gameplay scenes, which were quite contentious. Generally speaking, however, the remake of Resident Evil 4 stands out as a top-notch action horror game that expands upon the strong base laid by its predecessor. The updated boss battles are particularly noteworthy; for instance, encounters with characters like Crowser and Salazar are far more engaging than their initial iterations.

3. Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth

Is This Even A Remake Anymore?

If the initial part of Final Fantasy 7 Remake hinted at some deviations from the original, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth clearly emphasizes these differences. It’s akin to an amusement park version of the game, guiding players through recognizable scenes and settings while keeping them entertained with various distractions along the way.

The new version offers so many enhancements and additional elements that it’s impractical to detail them all. However, despite these changes, the game’s narrative successfully guides players through a comparable emotional odyssey, eliciting both nostalgic and subtle feelings.

Amidst the various activities, mini-games, and diversions, there are genuine advancements in character development and exploration of concepts introduced or hinted at in the original game. Many aspects seem to deepen a player’s comprehension of the world and its characters. It stands as an excellent role-playing game independently as well.

2. Silent Hill 2

In My Restless Dreams, I See That Town

As a devoted fan, I must say that the recent remake of Silent Hill 2 has truly struck a remarkable balance between reverence for the original and modern enhancement. The visuals, movements, and combat have all been noticeably upgraded, offering a more immersive gaming experience compared to the first release. Even the notoriously challenging boss battles of Silent Hill 2, which were mechanically less polished in the past, have been significantly improved in this remake, making them more engaging and satisfying to confront.

Initially, it seemed like the game was going to be a nearly frame-by-frame replica of the storyline from the original. However, the alterations made by Bloober Team not only fit well but also enhance the chilling, cinematic horror scenes that the original game established, even surpassing them in some instances.

While not every alteration strikes the right chord, some extended sections seem excessively elaborate. Nevertheless, Silent Hill 2‘s remake continues to shine as an exceptional demonstration of how to revitalize a classic with contemporary charm, without sacrificing the original game’s potency.

1. Resident Evil 2

Raccoon City Reborn

Many people believe that Resident Evil 2 stands as the epitome of contemporary remakes. It successfully encapsulates the spirit and ambiance of the initial game, all the while revamping most settings, mechanics, puzzles, and even numerous plot points.

Essentially, while many things remain much the same for Leon and Claire, they encounter a series of unexpected events, novel elements, and fresh gameplay sections. Additionally, familiar areas have been tailored to accommodate the third-person shooter style that’s found in some recent Resident Evil games.

In this revamped version, the nerve-wracking, cramped sensation of battling zombies in tight spaces remains similar to the original, yet it offers players increased control and tactical choices during combat. Overall, it’s an exceptional game with minimal drawbacks, making it a must-play for enthusiasts of survival horror genres.

2024-12-09 07:34