10 Video Game Remakes We Actually Need

TL;DR

  • Red Dead Redemption would benefit immensely from RAGE Engine’s advanced lighting and vegetation systems
  • No One Lives Forever remains trapped in rights limbo despite Nightdive Studios’ proven remake expertise
  • Resident Evil Code: Veronica needs modern controls and story refinements to complete Capcom’s remake trilogy
  • Dino Crisis offers unique dinosaur horror that modern technology could elevate significantly
  • Need For Speed: Most Wanted’s police pursuit mechanics set standards still unmatched today

When the Dead Space remake launched, many gamers approached it with healthy skepticism. Having witnessed numerous disappointing remakes over the years, the expectation of another letdown seemed almost inevitable. Yet completing the revitalized experience revealed something remarkable – a masterclass in how to properly modernize a classic while preserving its soul. This transformative experience sparked the realization that certain gaming gems deserve similar treatment.

As an enthusiast who has cherished countless video game adventures across decades, compiling this selection required careful consideration of multiple factors. Games were evaluated based on their cultural impact, technical limitations holding them back, and the potential for modern game design to enhance their core experience.

The criteria focused on titles where aging mechanics or presentation hinder modern accessibility, yet the foundational concepts remain compelling. Each selection represents not just nostalgia, but genuine opportunities to introduce timeless experiences to new generations.

Red Dead Redemption video game remake
Image Courtesy: Rockstar Games/Red Dead Redemption

Red Dead Redemption stands as an undeniable benchmark for narrative-driven open world design. While Red Dead Redemption 2 expanded upon the formula with breathtaking detail, the original masterpiece never received the comprehensive modernization it warrants. Transitioning to Rockstar’s advanced RAGE Engine could transform this western epic into an even more immersive experience.

Beyond expected visual enhancements, the RAGE Engine’s sophisticated global illumination and dynamic vegetation systems could breathe unprecedented life into the frontier. Imagine campfires casting realistic shadows across detailed terrain, with wildlife behaving more authentically within ecosystems. The technology demonstrated in Red Dead Redemption 2 proves this potential exists.

Post-GTA 6 development presents the perfect opportunity for Rockstar to revisit their western classic. Modern hardware capabilities could support expanded towns, more interactive NPCs, and enhanced weather systems that dynamically affect gameplay. These improvements would complement the already stellar storytelling without compromising the original’s atmospheric magic.

No One Lives Forever video game remake
Image Courtesy: Monolith/No One Lives Forever

The re-release saga of No One Lives Forever represents one of gaming’s most frustrating rights entanglements. Nightdive Studios attempted to remaster Monolith’s cult-classic spy comedy, but development stalled indefinitely due to three companies simultaneously claiming ownership. With no party willing to compromise, this brilliant title remains inaccessible.

Should Nightdive eventually overcome these legal obstacles, a full remake would serve the property better than a simple remaster. Their exemplary work on the System Shock Remake demonstrated how to modernize influential games while preserving their essential spirit. A similar approach could reintroduce Cate Archer to contemporary audiences in spectacular fashion.

Essential improvements would include modernized stealth mechanics, more interactive environments, and smarter enemy AI that responds dynamically to player choices. The original’s occasionally monotonous level design could benefit from additional verticality and hidden pathways that reward exploration. Environmental storytelling techniques could deepen the spy narrative without compromising the signature humor.

Resident Evil Code Veronica video game remake
Image Courtesy: Capcom/Resident Evil Code Veronica

Resident Evil Code: Veronica represents the unanimous choice among Capcom enthusiasts for remake treatment. Following the blueprint established by Resident Evil 2’s remake, this title could abandon restrictive tank controls for fluid over-the-shoulder combat while maintaining its distinctive gothic horror atmosphere.

Capcom could implement narrative refinements similar to those in Resident Evil 4’s remake, particularly enhancing character development and tightening narrative pacing. Given its canonical placement between the events of Resident Evil 2 and 3, with both those games receiving remake treatment featuring subtle story adjustments, Veronica deserves similar attention to detail.

While Capcom likely focuses on forthcoming mainline Resident Evil installments, fan demand for this specific remake remains consistently vocal. Executed with the same care as their previous remakes, Code: Veronica possesses the foundation to rank among the franchise’s finest entries. Modern technology could expand the game’s environments while preserving the claustrophobic tension that defined the original experience.

Dino Crisis Remake
Image Courtesy: Capcom/Dino Crisis

Dino Crisis brought Resident Evil’s survival horror formula to prehistoric predators with thrilling results. As Capcom’s spiritual successor to their zombie franchise, this dinosaur-themed adventure combined puzzle-solving with intense creature encounters. Modern technology could transform this concept into a truly terrifying experience.

A remake could leverage modern AI systems to create more intelligent dinosaur behaviors, with raptors coordinating attacks and larger predators exhibiting territorial instincts. The industrial setting provides perfect opportunities for environmental storytelling through abandoned research facilities.

Contemporary horror design principles could enhance the original’s tension while maintaining its identity. Dynamic lighting, destructible environments, and more interactive puzzle elements would modernize the experience without sacrificing what made the original memorable.

NFS Most Wanted
Image Courtesy: EA Games/NFS Most Wanted

Need For Speed: Most Wanted (2005) established the gold standard for arcade racing with its perfect blend of customization, police pursuit, and open-world freedom. The game’s signature heat level mechanics created escalating chase sequences that remain unmatched in intensity.

A modern remake could expand Rockport City with additional districts and hidden shortcuts while preserving the original’s progression system. Modern physics engines would enhance vehicle handling without compromising the accessible arcade feel that defined the experience.

Enhanced pursuit mechanics could include more sophisticated police tactics, dynamic roadblocks, and environmental interactions during chases. The car roster could see thoughtful expansion while maintaining the balanced tier system that encouraged experimentation with different vehicle types.

The Suffering video game remake
Image Courtesy: Surreal Software/The Suffering

The Suffering blended psychological horror with supernatural elements in ways that still feel innovative today. Its morality system affecting both narrative and gameplay represented ambitious design for its era. Modern technology could fully realize this vision.

A remake could enhance the game’s already disturbing creature designs with more detailed animations and behaviors. The prison setting offers tremendous potential for atmospheric storytelling through expanded environments and discovered narratives.

Contemporary horror standards could elevate the atmospheric tension while preserving the original’s distinctive blend of psychological and supernatural terror.

Action Checklist

  • Research current rights status and developer interest for your most desired remake candidates
  • Join dedicated fan communities and participate in organized campaigns to demonstrate demand
  • Create comparison materials showing how modern engines could enhance specific game elements
  • Engage with developers on social media using specific, constructive feedback about desired improvements

No reproduction without permission:Tsp Game Club » 10 Video Game Remakes We Actually Need Essential gaming classics that deserve modern remakes with enhanced gameplay and visuals