Top 10 games deserving of a remake (Features)

Blake Snow, GamePro (online)

05/11/2007 09:33:19

5. Final Fantasy VII (1997)

Final Fantasy VII remains the most popular title in the venerable RPG series for good reason. It introduced 3D graphics for one of the first times, standardized the use of full-motion video sequences to progress storylines, redefined character leveling and narration, and made role-playing games widely popular outside of Japan. The unprecedented amount of FMV footage in FFVII (over 40 minutes) would help tell its epic story with movie-like dexterity. As a result, Square's masterpiece is regarded as one the best and most influential video games ever made. So as to preserve its achievements while simultaneously avoiding the wrath of purists, Square need only refurbish the graphics and sound. Online co-op would be cool, too.

4. Doom (1993)

"This is the coolest thing I've ever seen," I perceptively told my friend Dylan after becoming acquainted with id Software's landmark shooter as a young boy. Though I had experimented with Wolfenstein 3D a year prior, this game exuded sinister polish in a way never before seen. Doom would pioneer video games is so many ways it's best just to list them: immersive 3D graphics, network multiplayer, user-generated modifications and expansions, downloadable gaming, mature content, and the blaming of video games for civil disobedience. No wonder first-person shooters used to be called "Doom clones." To pay homage, we ask for an exact remake using the most up-to-date graphics engine, an in-game level editor, slightly enhanced controls, and a more robust online experience. We're waiting.

3. The Legend of Zelda (1987)

One of the most recognizable names in gaming starts right here. Designed by the illustrious Shigeru Miyamoto, The Legend of Zelda set the standard for just about every subsequent action-adventure game that would follow. Far-reaching worlds, item upgrades, collectible relics, and a (then new) save system all contributed to making this one of the most memorable games of all time. The gameplay still holds up to this day. Strangely, Nintendo has yet to release an true remake much like it has with Mario, Metroid, and Star Fox. For optimal results, we suggest a highly stylized (though still overhead) 2D graphics, newly orchestrated soundtrack, extra dungeons, and of course, diagonal control. Basically, we're talking about the the first game combined with Minish Cap graphics.

2. Flashback: The Quest for Identity (1992)

Say "hello" to the definitive cinematic platformer. More skillful than Out of This World and with a better storyline than Prince of Persia, Flashback serves up a delicious blend of action, adventure, platforming, and puzzle-solving righteousness. It's truly a gratifying experience. Developed by the now-defunct Delphine Software, this best-selling French game just needs to be replayed in HD. "How's that?" you ask. Easy. Just follow the recipe used by Ubisoft when releasing Prince of Persia Classic on Xbox Live Arcade earlier this year: gorgeous lighting, smoother animations, and minor 3D elements while maintaining the original level design. Top it off with a reworked soundtrack, and we'd be more than pleased.

1. Tetris (1985)

How hard is it to screw up one of the most basic puzzle games ever developed? Apparently, it's easy if recent renditions of Alexey Pajitnov's outstanding accomplishment are to be believed. We'll be blunt with our Tetris remake demands, ones that the recently released Tetris Splash failed on. We'll require pristine 1080p graphics, National Geographic like backgrounds, a soothing soundtrack (both remixed and original), elegant presentation, and online modes much to the tune of the excellent Tetris DS. It's a shame a proper high-resolution remake of such a great game has never been achieved. The time is now.

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