A popular trend in current video games is the release of High-Definition (HD) Collections. These Blu-ray discs are packed with up to four classic titles, the majority of them considered among the cream of the crop on their original platforms. In this particular article, PSU focuses on ideas that have not yet and may never come into fruition, but nonetheless represent games we firmly believe deserve a bit of spit and polish for the HD-era.
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Capcom
Japanese developer Capcom has been responsible for some of gaming’s most prolific franchises over the past 20 years or so, including the likes of Street Fighter, Resident Evil and Mega Man. During the PS2-era, the company pumped out Okami and Resident Evil 4, arguably two of the greatest games of the last generation of consoles. In addition, they were also responsible for two franchises that have gained a cult following over the years, which is why we feel they deserve a HD makeover.
Onimusha HD Collection: Onimusha, Onimusha 2, Onimusha 3
Onimusha sees warriors fighting vicious demons in feudal Japan. Both Onimusha and Onimusha 3 featured the same hero, with an exception to Onimusha 2, which starred Jubei. The series is known not only for its addictive hack-‘n-slash gameplay, but also its carnage and gore, with players slicing up demonic creatures utilizing weapons from your standard samurai sword to a massive hammer. When slain, the demonic apparition releases energy that is used to upgrade weapons and armor. A certain color of demon essence can be harnessed for a trance like transformation in which the character becomes extremely powerful. Onimusha and its sequels were not particularly lengthy experiences, with most being completed in 10 hours or less. Like all Capcom works however, they aren’t a walk in the park, as there is always a challenging boss or puzzle just around the corner. Onimusha definitely deserves the HD treatment, and it would be sweet to see it in remastered form on Blu-ray.
Viewtiful Joe HD Collection: Viewtiful Joe, Viewtiful Joe 2
Viewtiful Joe is a vibrant adventure in which the player assumes the role of the eponymous, Fred Durst lookalike ass-kicking action hero. The cult classic was formed by the creative minds at Clover, the same studio responsible for the critically acclaimed Okami. Along with his shiny, red suit, Viewtiful Joe can slow down or speed up time and each power has its own benefits. Slowing time enables Joe to deliver strong blows, while speeding it up makes Joe fast as lightning. The game not only looks lush thanks to its unique art style, but also plays incredibly well to boot, with Joe boasting multiple combos allowing for some slick and stylish combat. Furthermore, with each boss there is a different strategy to use and the method of attack must be adjusted along with the opponent’s tactics. Indeed, if you thought Viewtiful Joe was “viewtiful” on the PS2, imagine how it would look on PS3 running in glorious HD.
Insomniac
Back in the PS1 days, there was a cute little fire breathing chap called Spyro the Dragon, who quickly cemented himself as one of the most successful platform series of that era. Developer Insomniac decided to spread its wings with PS2 however, and started up a new series named Ratchet & Clank. The dynamic duo proved incredibly popular among gamers and critics alike, spawning multiple sequels and eventually made its way onto PS3 with excellent Future Trilogy.
Ratchet & Clank PSP HD Collection: Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters, Secret Agent Clank
Ratchet and Clank are two buddies that love to make objects explode . . . or turn them into chickens. At Ratchet’s disposal are various weapons, each with its own purpose and impact, while his wise-cracking buddy Clank provides some much appreciated comic relief. Ratchet & Clank’s endeavors not only feature platforming elements, but incorporate a form of third person shooting and fighting. The franchise sold so well that Insomniac made two of their adventures on the PSP, Ratchet & Clank Size Matters and Secret Agent Clank. The developers recently announced the Ratchet & Clank HD Collection is on its way, comprised of the original three PlayStation 2 titles. However, we feel that the handheld games would make for an ideal supplement to the planned HD Collection, and feel Insomniac should definitely consider giving the PSP games a fresh coat of HD paint.
Stay tuned to PSU.com for part 2!
Article by Shawnee Lee