25 Best Game Remakes And Reboots, Ranked

Reviving classic games with a fresh approach allows developers to bring timeless ideas to modern platforms, address previous shortcomings, and appeal to today’s gamers. These projects range from complete overhauls to creative reinterpretations, updating everything from graphics and controls to sound and gameplay. Often, they also include extra content, improvements for player convenience, and options to make the games accessible to a wider audience. Here are some notable examples of games that have redefined their legacy.

25. MediEvil (2019)

This PlayStation 4 version of the classic 1998 adventure game has been completely rebuilt with updated graphics and technology. While the story of Sir Daniel Fortesque and the original game’s levels remain the same, the remake features improved lighting, updated character designs, and more control over the camera. Players who complete the main game can also enjoy a new quest called ‘Lost Souls’.

24. Ratchet & Clank (2016)

Insomniac Games completely rebuilt the classic 2002 platformer for PlayStation 4, releasing it alongside a new movie. This version retells the original story with stunning new cutscenes, and adds fresh weapons and planets to explore. Gameplay has been modernized with updated aiming, movement, and a contemporary system for upgrading your gadgets. The game also highlights the studio’s impressive visual technology, featuring detailed environments and lots of dynamic particle effects.

23. Metroid: Samus Returns (2017)

This Nintendo 3DS remake of the classic 1991 Game Boy game, created in partnership between MercurySteam and Nintendo, offers a modernized experience. It features new gameplay mechanics like free aiming and a melee counter, along with special ‘Aeion’ abilities that help with movement and combat. The game world has been redesigned with extra rooms and updated boss battles. Players can also enjoy the game in 3D and unlock bonus content using amiibo figures.

22. Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver (2009)

These Nintendo DS games are updated versions of the original Pokémon Gold and Silver, taking place in the Johto region. A unique feature is the Pokéwalker, a pedometer-like device that lets you earn rewards in the game by walking in real life. The remakes also utilize the DS touchscreen for easier navigation and Pokémon team management. After completing the main story, players can explore the Kanto region with new challenges and updated gyms.

21. The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2019)

This new Nintendo Switch version reimagines the classic 1993 game with a charming, toy-like look. It keeps the original game’s islands and puzzles intact, but runs much smoother and has better transitions. Players can even build their own dungeons using pieces they earn while playing. The game also works with amiibo and includes helpful improvements to how you manage items.

20. Spyro Reignited Trilogy (2018)

Toys for Bob completely remastered the original three Spyro the Dragon games for today’s consoles and PCs. They updated everything, including character appearances, cutscenes, and music – though you can still choose to listen to the classic soundtrack. The controls are now consistent with modern games, featuring analog movement and camera control. While the levels themselves remain true to the originals, they’ve been enhanced with improved graphics and longer viewing distances.

19. Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy (2017)

Vicarious Visions completely rebuilt the original Crash Bandicoot trilogy using a modern game engine for consoles and PC. This new version features time trials in every game, as well as a consistent save system and checkpoints. It also supports analog sticks and displays the game in widescreen. Through updates, players can unlock and play as additional characters in certain levels.

18. Black Mesa (2020)

Crowbar Collective has completely rebuilt the classic 1998 shooter using the Source engine, reimagining the levels and action. They’ve significantly expanded the Xen portion of the game with new areas and improved boss battles to fix issues with the original’s flow. The game also supports content created by the community, including new maps, and features smarter enemy behavior, as well as updated lighting and physics.

17. Halo 2 Anniversary (2014)

This updated version, part of The Master Chief Collection, features a completely rebuilt campaign where you can switch between the original graphics and a modern look. New cinematic scenes created by Blur Studio add more story and context between missions. The multiplayer mode now includes classic maps rebuilt with a current-generation engine, and the audio has been remastered with improved spatial sound and new sound effects.

16. Nier Replicant ver.1.22474487139… (2021)

Toylogic and Square Enix have revamped the 2010 action RPG, updating the combat to feel more like a later game in the series. They’ve also improved the graphics with higher-resolution models and smoother animations. This new release adds voice acting to scenes that were previously silent and includes a brand new ending. Players can also enjoy extra dungeons and customization options that were available in previous versions.

15. Metroid Prime Remastered (2023)

This Nintendo Switch version of the game features updated graphics – including new textures, models, and lighting – while maintaining the original levels. Players can choose between classic controls and a dual-stick setup to suit their preferred play style. The game now runs at a higher resolution with enhanced visual effects, and includes accessibility options like customizable controls and preset configurations.

14. System Shock (2023)

Nightdive Studios has completely updated the classic 1994 immersive sim with new graphics and a more user-friendly interface. While the core level design and story remain true to the original, the remake improves the feel of combat and makes hacking more engaging. It also features a simpler inventory system and audio logs that play automatically when relevant. Players now benefit from modern save features and can adjust the game’s difficulty to their liking.

13. Mafia: Definitive Edition (2020)

Hangar 13 has remastered the 2002 crime game, featuring completely new voice acting and cutscenes. The game’s city, Lost Heaven, now includes more side missions and a more realistic traffic system. They’ve also overhauled the driving and shooting controls to feel modern, while a ‘classic’ difficulty setting lets players experience the original game’s challenging handling and police chases.

12. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 (2020)

Vicarious Visions rebuilt the first two games with realistic physics that maintain the classic feel of landing tricks. The collection includes all the original levels and music, plus some new tracks. Players can enjoy a ‘Create-a-Park’ mode and online multiplayer, playable across different generations of consoles. The game features both legendary skaters and today’s biggest stars.

11. The Last of Us Part I (2022)

Naughty Dog completely remade the 2013 game for PlayStation 5 and PC, using a brand-new engine. They significantly improved the character models and animations to match their most recent games. The updated release also includes features to make the game more accessible, like audio descriptions and customizable controls. Finally, the game’s AI and combat have been refined to provide a consistent experience no matter the difficulty level.

10. Dead Space (2023)

Motive Studio completely rebuilt the 2008 survival horror game, making it feel more fluid with continuous movement and no loading screens while exploring the ship. The main character now speaks, and their dialogue is connected to what you need to do in the game. A new ‘Intensity Director’ changes where enemies appear and how the lighting works, creating a more dynamic experience. They’ve also rebalanced the weapons, added new ways to upgrade them, and included extra missions to help you get to know the supporting characters better.

9. Shadow of the Colossus (2018)

Bluepoint Games completely updated the 2005 adventure game with new graphics and a current-generation engine. Players can choose between different performance and visual settings depending on their hardware. The game offers both classic and updated control schemes, and includes a photo mode and collectibles for those who want to explore everything it has to offer.

8. XCOM: Enemy Unknown (2012)

Firaxis revitalized the classic tactical series with a blend of turn-based battles and large-scale global strategy. Players can build bases, conduct research, and develop soldiers who face permanent consequences for falling in battle. The game’s randomly generated maps and obscured vision create dynamic combat scenarios with realistic line of sight and cover. After its release, the game was expanded with new enemies, gear, and a reworked campaign.

7. Tomb Raider (2013)

Crystal Dynamics reimagined the Tomb Raider story, giving Lara Croft a fresh beginning on a secluded island. The game combines adventurous exploration with sneaky stealth and exciting combat, allowing players to improve Lara’s abilities and equipment. Players navigate through a central hub that connects ancient tombs and optional challenges. The game features realistic character performances and was released on various gaming systems.

6. Doom (2016)

id Software brought the shooting genre back to life with its fast-paced action, brutal ‘glory kill’ finishing moves, and customizable weapons. The game’s story unfolds in large arenas, accompanied by a soundtrack that changes based on the intensity of the fighting. Players can also create their own maps and share them with the community. The game was further enhanced with arcade-style modes and improvements to multiplayer.

5. God of War (2018)

Santa Monica Studio reimagined the series with a new camera angle and a unique approach of filming everything as one unbroken shot. Battles revolve around a powerful axe called the Leviathan, which players can upgrade and enhance with special attacks. The game features a vast world to explore with different areas connecting to each other, and challenging optional bosses to defeat. Realistic character performances are achieved through advanced motion capture technology and detailed in-game cutscenes.

4. Demon’s Souls (2020)

Bluepoint Games rebuilt the 2009 action RPG for PlayStation 5, giving it completely new visuals and improved lighting. The game runs at a faster frame rate and higher resolution, depending on your TV. It keeps the same core gameplay and level design as the original, but adds helpful improvements to the menus and item management. Online play now uses reliable servers and has a more secure password system.

3. Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)

Square Enix reimagined the Midgar portion of their 1997 role-playing game, turning it into a complete action RPG. Battles are dynamic, letting you switch between characters and use special abilities. This version includes new music and a reworked story with added chapters and side quests. The game’s story will continue in future installments as part of a larger, multi-part project.

2. Resident Evil 2 (2019)

Capcom completely remade the classic 1998 survival horror game with updated graphics, a new over-the-shoulder camera perspective, and modern controls. The story still lets you play as Leon and Claire, but features redesigned puzzles and expanded areas to explore. The relentless Tyrant enemy now chases you differently through the police station. Plus, free updates added extra challenges like time trials and gave players more character storylines.

1. Resident Evil 4 (2023)

This updated version of the 2005 action horror game features improved aiming and blocking, plus more ways to sneak around. The levels have been redesigned to work with these new features, while still keeping the most memorable moments intact. It also includes a revamped companion system and fun shooting gallery challenges. After release, players can look forward to a brand new campaign and support for a fan-favorite game mode with its own unique way to level up.

Share your picks in the comments and tell us which remake or reboot deserves a spot and why.

2025-11-13 11:48