The 30 Best Video Game Remakes

Video game remakes remain favored among players, as they strike that perfect chord of nostalgia for seasoned gamers, and the buzz connected to them can attract a fresh audience. Presently, it’s an ideal moment to examine the titles that have established the benchmark for what a return to a cherished franchise should entail, with several exceptional instances recently launched on PC and console.

While a remaster revamps an existing game with sharper graphics, audio enhancements–and if fortune smiles upon you–all of the premium DLC that came with the initial launch, a remake faces a far more substantial challenge. It must recapture the charm of the original title, update it, and still devise a method to engage a completely new generation of potential fans with its blend of traditional and contemporary outlooks.

The video game sector boasts a fine history regarding remakes, with the past decade alone witnessing a multitude of fresh interpretations of beloved franchises. Square Enix has boldly navigated a new course for Final Fantasy VII with 2020’s visually striking Remake episode and has revisited its PSP history with a revamped version of Crisis Core; Capcom has elevated the benchmark for remakes with its numerous returns to Raccoon City; and Nintendo isn’t unfamiliar with persuading you to pay twice for the same title.

We’ve compiled 30 of the finest video game remakes below. Each one serves as a distinctive showcase of nostalgia, triumphantly rebirthed for a new era.

The comeback of Crisis Core in 2022 might have advertised itself as a thorough remaster, but this outstanding prelude to Final Fantasy VII leans significantly closer to remake territory. Retaining its PSP essence, Crisis Core’s Reunion version matches the visual standards of last-gen games and reconstructs its combat system to align more closely with the current Final Fantasy VII remake initiative. It’s still the identical game from 2007 that drained your PSP battery with its cleverly digestible design, yet it is better than ever in a newer and more polished form that brings the focus back on Final Fantasy VII’s undervalued protagonist Zack Fair.

Read our Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion review.

Was the remake of Dead Space necessary in 2023? That’s a matter for discussion, but after making its grand and gory entrance, EA Motive’s excursion into the blood-splattered hallways of the USG Ishimura is indispensable gaming. Capable of jolting you awake with brilliant scare tactics and extraordinarily lavish set designs, Dead Space Remake sets a new gold standard for what a nostalgic journey should embody. Thoughtful modifications, appreciated quality-of-life improvements, and subtle variations render this reimagined classic more terrifying than ever and a strong candidate for game of the year.

Read our Dead Space Remake review.

A remake of one of From Software’s most cherished games–and the foundation for the studio’s signature style–produced by another entity might seem blasphemous, but developer Bluepoint delivered a loyal and technically remarkable return to Boletaria. Not merely a demonstration of the remarkable technology of the PS5, Bluepoint’s take on Demon’s Souls is both respectful to the original material and filled with instances where the studio expresses its own identity. It looks stunning, maintains consistently smooth performance, and serves as a time capsule for Souls titles that can readily compete with From Software’s subsequent releases.

Read our Demon’s Souls PS5 review.

It was an exhilarating time to be a gamer in 1997, a pivotal year in the industry that saw the release of numerous classic games. Final Fantasy Tactics was one such title, yet it was sadly overshadowed by the breakout introduction of various other games that year. Fast forward a few decades, and Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles marks a grand return to a fantasy realm rich with swords, sorcery, and a struggle for the throne. As a defining game of the tactical-RPG genre, this new iteration remains true to the source material, incorporates appreciated quality-of-life improvements, and feels as fulfilling and adaptable to play now as it did nearly three decades ago.

Read our Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles review.

One of the more unforgettable titles from the PS2 era, this amusingly corny slice of alien invasion hysteria remains a joy to play. An interactive B-grade film receiving a remarkable upgrade, Destroy All Humans is essentially a series of small playgrounds where you can wreak chaos, while the more contemporary shooting mechanics and mobility serve as a beneficial enhancement. Even with some lackluster audio work–dulling a phenomenal performance from Richard Horvitz, who essentially reprises his Invader Zim role–and some questionable stealth components, Destroy All Humans is a cult-classic worthy of revisiting.

Read our Destroy All Humans review.

Years in development, Square Enix’s return to Midgar is more than just a simple remake. With fan anticipation at an unprecedented peak, Final

Fantasy VII Remake skillfully sidesteps the inevitable comparisons to the original title and instead strives to carve its own trajectory ahead, an ambitious new course that will develop over two additional installments. While many recognizable plot points persist, the stunning visuals, gameplay that balances modern and traditional RPG dynamics, and unexpected twists in the final act contribute to making the return of Cloud Strife and the Avalanche team an exhilarating exploration into the unknown.

Read our Final Fantasy VII Remake review.

Since the launch of Fire Emblem Awakening on the Nintendo 3DS, Fire Emblem enthusiasts have been relishing the revived franchise. With a rich legacy and numerous titles to its credit, the choice to remake one of the earliest entries in the Fire Emblem series might have seemed peculiar, yet it proved to be a fruitful decision, as the superb Shadows of Valentia emerged. Combining challenging strategic gameplay, player-driven relationships, and a significantly more concentrated narrative, this edition in the Fire Emblem Echoes saga provides a thoroughly satisfying return to the past.

Read our Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia review.

The original Ghosts ‘n Goblins is a test of endurance, as that arcade and home console classic is notorious for its steep level of difficulty and relentless challenge. Fast-forward a few decades, and Capcom opted to revive the valiant knight Arthur for a refreshed quest against colossal beasts that lurk in the dark. While the challenge and gameplay were preserved, Ghosts ‘n Goblins Resurrection employs the RE Engine to present a stunning new interpretation of familiar scenes, allowing the artistic design to flourish and create some of the most unique levels found. You’ll want to admire the beauty of these stages, but with a ruthless horde of foes pursuing you relentlessly, you won’t have that opportunity unless you demonstrate some medieval prowess.

Read our Ghost’s ‘n Goblins Resurrection review.

Black Mesa is a Half-Life remake stemming from a singular circumstance, one that might never be replicated in the gaming domain. A passion project born from Half-Life enthusiasts, Black Mesa not only received a nod of endorsement from Valve, it was granted permission from the digital distribution platform to be sold on Steam as well. It’s evident why Valve was eager to support this fan endeavor, as the project lovingly reproduces Gordon Freeman’s harrowing day with enhanced visuals, handy modifications to the campaign, and meticulous attention to subtle details.

With a high-profile HBO adaptation available, developer Naughty Dog chose to revisit its cherished post-apocalyptic franchise by returning to the initial game and providing it with a substantial upgrade in 2022. Although there aren’t any significant enhancements to discover beyond the refreshed PS5-level graphics, The Last of Us Part I does present a series of minor adjustments that introduce important quality-of-life improvements to the package. Elevating the first game to match the exceptional standard set by its critically acclaimed sequel, this version of The Last of Us is the ultimate rendition of the game that continues to deliver a heartfelt narrative and stunning visuals.

Read our The Last of Us Part I review.

Link’s Awakening previously received a re-release on Game Boy Color, but in 2019, Nintendo ensured that its fanbase had no reasons to miss out on this cult-classic adventure featuring the green-clad hero. As anticipated, the graphics are significantly superior to the two Game Boy installments; Koholint Island includes a few new collectibles to uncover; and there’s a playful energy to the entire package. Link’s Awakening remains remarkably true to the original game, balancing a tightrope between modern visuals and retro gameplay.

Read our The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening review.

Few titles have instigated a monumental transformation in the industry like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, but many years later, the enchantment of that timeless classic was revitalized on the Nintendo 3DS. Taking the N64 original and reimagining it with a 3D upgrade and the challenging Master Quest mode, the 3DS version adds the perfect amount of extra content to an already outstanding game. If you haven’t experienced it yet and can acquire a 3DS, consider this the definitive version of Ocarina of Time.

Read our The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D review.

Nearly thirty years ago, Live A Live garnered a dedicated fan base and a lasting spot in any discussion about the greatest JRPGs of all time. Tragically overlooked—partially due to its Japan-only release—Live A Live was significantly ahead of its time and finally got the opportunity to showcase its strengths in 2022 with a grand remake. Envision a game with multiple protagonists, hours of narrative, and a classic design flair, then combine that with effortlessly delightful visuals and a superb soundtrack. That amalgamation creates a fantastic title, and a remake that’s poised to endure once more as it captures a new generation of players.

Read our

Live A Live assessment.

For those who believe that sandbox titles are excessively inflated in contemporary gaming, Mafia: Definitive Edition appears as a delightful revival of simpler eras. It retains its collection of items to discover, yet these take a backseat to a game that boasts a cleverly crafted narrative, vibrant settings to navigate in the early 20th century, and remarkable facial capture technology. Despite some outdated gameplay mechanics, they do not interfere with the exhilarating plunge into the realm of organized crime and chaos.

Explore our Mafia: Definitive Edition assessment.

One of the more polarizing entries in the Metal Gear series, GameCube-exclusive Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes remains an intriguing remake of a PlayStation hit that takes creative detours from the original title. With an enhanced action flair for cinematic sequences and first-person shooting borrowed from Metal Gear Solid 2, it makes a notable difference, while re-recorded audio and upgraded AI elevate this remake to a treasured relic from Nintendo’s gaming past.

Discover our Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes assessment.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is a reliable and expected remake of the original Snake Eater, modernizing it for fresh audiences. Adjustments and enhancements to the experience enhance the Cold War-era tale that follows the future Big Boss, yielding a one-to-one remake that rekindles long-dormant muscle memory for veteran players. However, for others? This remains the quintessential Metal Gear Solid, as Snake Eater harmonizes jungle combat with cinematic narration, laying the groundwork for the stealth, espionage, and stratagem franchise.

Check our Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater evaluation.

Metroid II: The Return of Samus is among the more overlooked titles in the Nintendo collection, but as time has shown, it’s a masterpiece of design and gameplay. Breaking free from its monochrome confinement on the Game Boy, Mercury Steam’s remake of the game is an extraordinary return to 2D gameplay, an exhilarating journey that incorporates elements of more modern Metroid experiences with traditional action, exploration, and brilliantly designed levels. One of the finest Metroid games of all time feels even better in this remake, and even if nostalgia isn’t a significant factor for you, the intense gameplay and challenging puzzles make it an indispensable addition to any 3DS library. Meanwhile, the original Game Boy version is currently accessible in the Nintendo Switch Online library.

Consult our Metroid: Samus Returns review.

If you were to summarize Metroid Zero Mission in a single term, it would be “all-encompassing”. Initially released on the Game Boy Advance and later appearing on Nintendo’s Wii U eShop, Metroid Zero Mission is a remarkable transformation of the original NES Metroid. It’s packed with fresh ideas, levels, and power-ups, crafting a Metroid feast that you can indulge in. It possesses the action, atmosphere, and relentless challenge of the earlier game in its digital essence, and years later, it remains one of the finest Metroid experiences available. Hopefully, Nintendo incorporates it into the Nintendo Switch Online GBA library.

Explore our Metroid Zero Mission assessment.

When a remake is crafted with genuine affection and enthusiasm for the original title, it reflects in the final outcome. Oddworld: Abe’s Odysee – New ‘n’ Tasty is a prime example of this philosophy, a delightful second helping of clever platforming and tricky puzzle-solving situated in a somber alien realm that’s both innovative in structure and a promotion for exploring a vegan lifestyle. Almost indistinguishable from its original source but astute enough to recognize when to diverge, Abe’s journey felt superior than ever in this heartfelt homage to the PS1 classic.

Discover our Oddworld: Abe’s Odysee – New ‘n’ Tasty evaluation.

There has been an abundance of Pokemon remakes throughout the years, but if you had to select the finest of the recent series, Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver emerge as the clear victors. After all, these are the premier Pokemon games in history. Launched on the Nintendo DS—with a unique PokeWalker accessory included—these remakes of Pokemon Gold and Silver continue to be the top pocket monster games you can enjoy even more than a decade later. They feature charming pixel art, numerous new features, and enough gotta catch ’em all spirit to energize Ecruteak City for several lifetimes. It’s unfortunate that these games, like many older Pokemon cartridges, fetch exorbitant prices from resellers at present.

Peruse our Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver evaluation.

It’s not the first instance that the original mainline Pokemon titles have been reimagined–FireRed

and LeafGreen are cherished Game Boy Advance titles for a purpose—but Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee is undoubtedly Pokémon at its most accessible. Structurally akin to the original games, Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee introduces several bold modifications with its innovative catching systems and absence of HMs. These concepts contribute to making a lively world stand out even further, and with each Pokémon appearing more impressive than ever due to the Switch hardware, these alterations create an iconic adventure worth experiencing once more.

Read our Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee review.

The original Ratchet & Clank marked a pivotal moment for PlayStation upon its debut in 2002, a title that propelled a new series of action-platformers while establishing a legendary duo. Fast-forward to 2016, and the comeback of Ratchet & Clank resulted in a refreshed blast from the past. The modifications to the initial adventure were quite notable compared to many titles on this list, encompassing significant narrative changes, revamped story arcs for prominent characters, introduction of new characters, and reimagined environments. Despite these substantial alterations, Ratchet & Clank preserved the essence and charm of its predecessor. The array of quirky weaponry was more enjoyable than ever before, thanks to enhanced controls, stunning visuals, fluid animations, and breathtaking effects. It remains an endearing revival of a classic series, successfully reintroducing the franchise to an entirely new audience at the time.

Read our Ratchet & Clank review.

Following the success of Resident Evil 7, which set the series back on course, Capcom turned to its roots to shape the future of its zombified saga. Utilizing cutting-edge graphics from the RE engine, Resident Evil 2 emerged from its grave with a renewed vitality. It’s a gruesome masterpiece filled with tension, action, and impeccably delivered thrills in the heart of Raccoon City. An expanded narrative, intriguing easter eggs, and challenging gameplay establish this as the gold standard for survival-horror remakes. And if that isn’t enough fright for you, don’t forget to check out Resident Evil 3’s remake ahead of the fourth game’s revival set for March 24.

Read our Resident Evil 2 Remake review.

As the PlayStation 2 era neared its conclusion, the console experienced a final flourish of titles that defined it before the arrival of PS3. Shadow of the Colossus is one such title, and years later, developer Bluepoint Games resurrected its haunting allure for a new audience. Completely rebuilt while retaining the essence and mechanics, Bluepoint’s remake is both faithful and grand, crafting a colossal tale of peril, enigma, and sorrow that stands as one of the finest games on PS4.

Read our Shadow of the Colossus review.

Bloober Team demonstrated that it was fully capable of remaking what is widely deemed one of the finest survival-horror titles ever created. Their interpretation of Silent Hill 2 wasn’t merely a cosmetic update but a sophisticated enhancement that heightened the dread and themes of the original, successfully bringing it into the contemporary era of horror gaming. Successfully recapturing the elusive magic that made Silent Hill 2 an enduring classic, Bloober Team’s reimagining is haunting, gripping, and an unforgettable journey into a restless nightmare.

Read our Silent Hill 2 review.

Developer Nightdive has made a name for itself as one of the premier studios in the industry regarding remasters, but for its remake of System Shock, the developer took a creative approach to this cult-classic sci-fi FPS.

Mechanically, System Shock functions precisely as you recall it, but visually, the game is a distinctive amalgamation of ‘90s aesthetics refined to a razor’s edge using contemporary technology. The blend of the past and present is innovative, a nostalgic voyage back in time enhanced by breathtaking graphics and several appreciated modern conveniences.

Defying gravity after launching off from a halfpipe felt better than ever when Vicarious Visions sprinkled its remake magic on the Tony Hawk franchise, reimagining the first two titles in the landmark series in HD elegance and featuring a Jack Black cameo. Like many remakes, Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1+2 showcases sharp visuals and significant gameplay adjustments, but the true brilliance of this compilation lies in its inclusion of a mode that reverts gameplay to its original default setting. Ideal for veterans and newcomers alike, this assembly of Tony Hawk games looks, plays, and sounds fantastic with a licensed soundtrack brimming with punk rock classics.

Read our Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1+2 review.

A remake and a reimagining, Firaxis’ XCOM: Enemy Unknown was the nostalgic breath of fresh air that enthusiasts had been anticipating after The Bureau: XCOM Declassified left a bitter aftertaste. A game of hard-won triumphs and ruthless adversaries, Firaxis’ reboot introduces a layer of tension between each turn that is tangible, a complex war economy to invest in, and numerous chances to make choices with haunting consequences. Exquisite strategy that’s also highly accessible to newcomers, this installment in the XCOM series is a tactical delight.

Read our XCOM: Enemy Unknown review.

We’re double-dipping for this concluding entry, but if you’ve ever sought melodramatic storytelling set within the gritty underbelly of the Japanese underworld, you owe it to yourself to dive into the Kiwami remakes of the first two Yakuza titles. Documenting the rise and fall of the indomitable Kazuma Kiryu, the Kiwami games are straightforward recreations of the originals that introduce numerous adjustments to their fundamental frameworks. Beyond these thoughtful modifications, they both remain the fantastic action titles that launched a new series for Sega, encapsulating all the heart, absurdity, and bone-crunching intensity of these cult classics.

Read our Yakuza Kiwami review.