While numerous legendary titles from the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 ranks remain highly regarded, their visibility in the gaming community has understandably diminished over the years. These classic games present an excellent opportunity for remasters, allowing publishers to generate additional revenue without the extensive effort a full remake would entail. Fortunately, a rich selection exists, poised to make its way to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S as remastered versions.
Similar to many overlooked gems from the PS2 era, titles from the PS3 and Xbox 360 period are filled with potential classics that deserve a second chance. For a remaster to be truly impactful, it should ideally be accessible on multiple platforms, ensuring wide accessibility for gamers. Many players remain unaware of the impressive offerings that this era produced, making remasters an enticing prospect.
10 Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 Deserves a Remaster
Engaging SWAT Tactics in Sin City
Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 captivated players upon its release, despite some AI limitations. Gamers found themselves leading a SWAT team in Las Vegas, tasked with neutralizing terrorist threats. Although the story mode had its moments, the game truly excelled in scenarios that involved strategic hostage rescues.
9 Splinter Cell: Blacklist is an Overlooked Masterpiece
Why Ubisoft Seems to Have Forgotten Splinter Cell
Splinter Cell: Blacklist is an exemplary instance of revitalizing a beloved franchise while maintaining its core spirit. Its potential for a remaster is heightened by the current surge in interest surrounding stealth gameplay. The title adeptly blended classic stealth mechanics with more action-oriented gameplay, providing players with freedom to choose lethal or non-lethal approaches, enhancing the overall replayability.
The narrative, centered on terrorism, is compelling yet often underestimated. A remastered version could elevate visual fidelity, enhancing cinematic scenes, thus inviting players to immerse themselves in its strong storyline and well-developed characters.
8 Brutal Legend Had a Rough Marketing Launch
A Modern Audience Would Appreciate It
Initially dismissed due to misleading marketing, Brutal Legend deserves re-evaluation as a fun and distinctive gaming experience. This title merges real-time strategy with open-world elements, showcasing creativity from Tim Schafer, the renowned director behind Psychonauts and Grim Fandango. Players alternate between controlling metal minions in epic battles and engaging in vehicle races or combat.
A remaster could refresh the visuals, potentially employing a vibrant cartoon style reminiscent of Fortnite. Enhanced graphics, improved lighting, and refined character models would breathe new life into this underappreciated gem.
7 Persona 4 Arena Ultimax Would Be an Ideal Remaster Candidate
More Fighting Games in the Persona Universe!
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax successfully combines JRPG elements with fighting mechanics, making it an ideal candidate for a remaster. This title is often overshadowed by its counterparts that have received attention, despite its engaging narrative that features Persona 4’s beloved characters grappling with supernatural adversaries while navigating real-life challenges.
While Persona 4 saw a port to PS4, a full remaster or remake for modern consoles would amplify its captivating features with upgraded visuals and performance, allowing both new and returning players to experience this classic tale.
6 The Infamous Series Is Due for Revival
A Neglected Franchise
The Infamous series deserves a remaster, particularly for its first two installments. This franchise innovatively blends superhero action with player choice, which is rare among today’s AAA offerings. Player decisions significantly influence the storyline, character relationships, and game endings, creating a uniquely dynamic experience.
Graphical enhancements and responsive city environments would further enrich this experience, transforming the gameplay from vibrant to dystopian based on player actions. The series’ artistic style, reminiscent of graphic novels, provides an aesthetic worth revisiting.
5 The Original God of War Trilogy Need Remastering
Reviving Kratos’ Legendary Journey
Remastering the original God of War games would align perfectly with the current enthusiasm surrounding the franchise. As they become less accessible—being available primarily through PlayStation Plus, remastering would entice both new players and veterans alike to explore Kratos’ earlier adventures.
4 The Witcher 2: Assassin of Kings Feels Outdated
Graphics That Reflect an Older Era
Although many consider The Witcher 2: Assassin of Kings to be a classic, its graphics have not aged gracefully. While they were remarkable at the time, the dependence on blur and bloom effects detracts from the experience today. Nevertheless, the game’s combat system remains robust and does not require a redesign. A remaster could showcase the narrative depth and character complexity that make this installment standout, especially against the backdrop of The Witcher 3 and the upcoming sequel.
3 Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Deserves Another Look
A Final Farewell for Solid Snake
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots stands out as a highlight in its series, yet remains unremastered. Its expansive narrative concludes Solid Snake’s epic journey, thoughtfully addressing themes such as war and personal sacrifice. The gripping gameplay and unique mechanics, including the Drebin Point system, provide numerous choices for players. Bringing this title to PS5 could expand its audience, especially for those who missed it on PS3.
2 Grand Theft Auto 4 Deserves Its Own Remaster
A Deluxe Edition for a Hidden Gem
Grand Theft Auto 4 deserves a remaster to highlight its unique contributions to the franchise. This title features a physics engine that set it apart from its successor, GTA 5. The narrative takes a deeper, more reflective approach, focusing on the life of Niko Bellic amidst complex themes of immigration, morality, and organized crime. This remaster feels overdue, and a revitalized version could introduce audiences to its rich storytelling.
1 Little Big Planet 3 is Underrated
An Industry-Changing Franchise
LittleBigPlanet 3 emerges as the pinnacle of creative expression, offering players a vast array of options. A remaster could reinvigorate the series by integrating previous levels and customization tools from earlier installments. It’s disheartening to see LittleBigPlanet largely overlooked when it deserves to be a flagship series due to its unique creative gameplay and charm.
With an enhanced Creation Mode that allows for more intricate level designs and the introduction of streamlined tools, a PlayStation 5 remaster could reignite interest in this once-beloved series, ultimately restoring its position in gaming history.