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Old favorites are making a comeback in the gaming world, and 2023 was a standout year for video game remakes.
Metroid Prime Remastered
Nintendo pleasantly surprised fans with the release of Metroid Prime Remastered, a visually stunning recreation of the beloved 3D adventure game.
Dead Space
The Dead Space remake brought new life to the 2008 sci-fi horror classic, with subtle changes and improvements that enhanced the overall experience.
Resident Evil 4
The Resident Evil 4 remake by Capcom offers a fresh take on the original game, with new gameplay mechanics, redesigned levels, and a darker aesthetic.
The latest remake from 2023 that we’re going to talk about was released early in the year and may have slipped under your radar. “Like a Dragon: Ishin!” had a long journey to make it to the United States, originally launching in Japan back in 2014, before the “Yakuza” series gained the popularity it enjoys in the west today. Instead of a simple localization and port, Ryo Ga Gotoku Studio decided to rebuild the game in a new engine, introduce new combat mechanics, and finally give western “Yakuza” fans (myself included) the opportunity to play this truly unique game.
A Shift in Time
The setting of “Ishin!” is what sets it apart. While most of the series is set in modern-day Japan, this installment takes the colorful characters back to the 1860s, reimagining them as real historical figures. Instead of controlling Kazuma Kiryu, players embody the real Japanese political figure Sakamoto Ryoma, who just happens to look exactly like Kiryu. It’s definitely a peculiar concept, and at times the story teeters on the edge of nationalism, but it manages to captivate nonetheless.
A Welcome Addition
I, for one, am thrilled that “Ishin!” is finally available in the west. The game’s unconventional setting and storyline make it a stand-out in the “Yakuza” series, offering players a fresh and intriguing experience.
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