Overview
- Sony’s PlayStation is rejuvenating classic game franchises through modern remakes that attract nostalgic gamers.
- Iconic titles from the PlayStation 2 era, such as Ratchet & Clank and Sly Cooper, have received HD remasters, introducing these classics to a new generation.
- Remakes like Gravity Rush Remastered and LocoRoco Remastered revitalize lesser-known franchises, enhancing them with updated graphics and gameplay.
With over three decades of history and a vast repository of intellectual properties, Sony’s PlayStation brand continues to explore its extensive back catalog. This strategy allows players to experience beloved games in modern formats. As hardware technology evolves, original titles may either fade into obscurity or undergo significant transformations through remasters and remakes, further highlighting the impact of advancing technology on classic gaming.
The PlayStation’s commitment to reviving classic titles encompasses everything from comprehensive collection anthologies to complete reimagining of iconic games. Regularly revisiting celebrated franchises has made this practice a cornerstone of the PlayStation’s release rhythm.
8 Classic HD Collections on PS3
Revitalizing PlayStation 2 Classics in HD
- Notable HD Collections include Ico & Shadow of the Colossus, The Sly Collection, Ratchet & Clank Collection, Killzone Trilogy, and Jak & Daxter Collection.
With the industry collectively shifting toward high-definition gaming, the PlayStation 3 era marked Sony’s transition of numerous PlayStation 2 franchises into the HD landscape. Although many classic titles from the ‘Collection’ line can now be accessed via PlayStation Plus’ Classic Catalogue, numerous iconic properties have yet to be revisited since their initial remasters.
This era strongly represented the emphasis on third-person action-platformers from the PlayStation 2, highlighted by collections such as Jak & Daxter, Ratchet & Clank, and The Sly Collection. Additionally, niche titles like the God of War series and Team Ico’s offerings also found a new lease on life through these HD collections, showcasing Sony’s ability to revitalize its extensive array of franchises.
7 Ratchet & Clank (2016)
Examining the Movie Tie-In’s Influence on the Franchise
The 2016 reboot of Ratchet & Clank represents a unique crossover between the franchise’s original 2002 PS2 title and a parallel animated feature film. This PlayStation 4 release successfully captured the charm of its predecessor, enhanced by stunning visual updates.
While the accompanying movie did not receive as favorable critical reception, the game benefited from fresh gameplay mechanics and a strong narrative that connected with fans. By breath life into this long-standing franchise, the reboot not only attracted a new generation of players but also laid the groundwork for the acclaimed sequel Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, which debuted alongside the PlayStation 5.
6 LocoRoco & LocoRoco 2 Remastered
Despite having enjoyed success on the handheld PlayStation Portable, the charming puzzle-platformer series LocoRoco has seen limited attention from Sony in recent years. However, with a themed stage in Team Asobi’s 2024 action-platformer Astro Bot and the remastered PlayStation 4 versions of the two original titles, LocoRoco has begun to regain prominence.
Both LocoRoco Remastered and LocoRoco 2 Remastered brought the celebrated franchise to a wider audience in stunning 4K resolution while retaining the nostalgic charm of the original PSP titles. These remasters not only revived interest in this unique series but also underscored the industry’s ongoing commitment to preserving video game history.
5 MediEvil (2019)
Striking a Balance Between Remastered Visuals and New Assets
Initially presented as a remaster of the classic 1998 action-platformer, MediEvil (2019) ultimately evolved into a full remake that reinterpreted its predecessor while retaining its core essence.
By creating new levels and refining the original’s control scheme for modern audiences, Other Ocean Interactive’s remake expertly balances homage to the original with innovative gameplay enhancements. The return of original talent for new compositions and voice acting further contributed to the remake’s nostalgic yet fresh experience.
4 Gravity Rush Remastered
Reviving a Unique Franchise and Prompting a Sequel
Renowned for its groundbreaking remake efforts like Shadow of the Colossus and Demon’s Souls, Bluepoint Games also significantly contributed to the preservation of Gravity Rush. Their 2015 remaster not only bundled all downloadable content with improved graphics but also introduced the acclaimed PlayStation Vita title to the PlayStation 4.
The 2012 original from Japan Studios showcased a richly crafted world and innovative gameplay mechanics, making its transition to consoles a strategic move given the declining popularity of Sony’s handheld system. Gravity Rush Remastered not only enhanced gameplay but also greatly expanded the IP’s audience, paving the way for the successful sequel, Gravity Rush 2, in 2017.
3 Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
The Next Chapter of Square Enix’s Esteemed Remake Trilogy
The landmark title Final Fantasy 7, celebrated for its engaging narrative and gameplay, launched a trilogy of remakes. The first installment, released in 2020, initiated this extensive journey by focusing on the iconic Midgar setting, while the anticipated Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth expands upon both gameplay mechanics and storytelling from the original title.
This sequel allows players to explore a semi-open world environment in Gaia, incorporating both pioneering gameplay and emotional depth that resonates with longtime fans while introducing newcomers to the legendary series.
2 Shadow of the Colossus (2018)
A Masterful Remake from Bluepoint Studios
Many players’ experiences with the Shadow of the Colossus franchise may be through the hands of Texas-based Bluepoint Studios, which has effectively revived this celebrated puzzle-adventure title for modern audiences.
While the original game, released by Japan Studio in 2005, has been a significant player in the series’ legacy, Bluepoint’s contributions through the 2011 HD collection and the 2018 remake have set a new standard. Built entirely for the PlayStation 4, this remake harnesses 4K capabilities to not only reinterpret the classic but also introduce new gameplay modes and collectibles, elevating the experience further.
1 Demon’s Souls (2020)
A PS5 Launch Title That Upholds the Souls Bourne Tradition
The 2020 remake of the original Demon’s Souls not only marked a high point for the PlayStation 5 launch but also welcomed new players into the Soulsborne genre. Bluepoint Games’ remake breathed new life into the 2009 classic, amplifying the game’s systems while providing a refreshed visual experience that showcased the console’s capabilities.
Despite maintaining the essence and atmosphere of the original FromSoftware title, the remake benefitted from newly created assets, reimagined levels, and new music, allowing it to cultivate its unique identity while respecting the revered legacy on which it was built.
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