1997 N64 Exclusive Getting New Release on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S

It’s nearly certain that a beloved game from 1997, such as Final Fantasy 7, Grand Theft Auto, GoldenEye 007, or others like Fallout, Gran Turismo, Star Fox 64, Quake II, Crash Bandicoot 2, Mega Man Legends, Tomb Raider II, Tekken 3, and Virtua Striker 2, is set to return in updated versions for both the PlayStation 5 and the duo of Xbox Series consoles, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. While these are some of the most iconic games from 1997, it’s important to note that there were many other significant releases that year as well.

Apart from these standout games, there are other notable releases as well, albeit possibly less attention-grabbing. Among these, one title that deserves mention is Doom 64, initially launched as an N64 exclusive in 1997. Remaining an N64 exclusive until 2020, it was eventually made available on the Nintendo Switch, PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Google Stadia. It seems this classic game will soon be playable on PS5, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X as well.

In contrast to 1997 when the ownership of the series lay with Midway, there’s been no formal declaration yet from Bethesda, who currently hold the rights. However, since Microsoft (Xbox) owns Bethesda, it technically means that they now control the series, even though Bethesda maintains a degree of self-publishing autonomy.

We’re certain that the 1997 N64 classic will be available on PS5, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X. This is indicated by the fact that the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has given the game a rating for these specific platforms.

For individuals unaware, any game launched in North America undergoes the process of being evaluated by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board). Their role includes assigning a rating to the game and issuing warnings about particular content types within it.

More recently, Bethesda has resubmitted Doom 64 for release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, which explains why the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has updated its listing for the game on these platforms. This isn’t a mistake or an oversight, but rather a sign that a port of this classic game is indeed in the works. In other words, it’s not a question of if this will occur, but when it will happen. The ESRB rating the N64 version of Doom 64 for release on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S essentially confirms that its arrival is imminent, as such ESRB ratings usually indicate that the game will be available within a few months from now.

While I’ve shared all the details I have, remember to approach them with some skepticism. Although there’s no doubt about the authenticity of the leak, it’s essential to note that this isn’t an officially confirmed announcement from Bethesda or Xbox.

Regarding the game Doom 64, it belongs to the first-person shooter genre and serves as the fourth installment in the Doom series, following the release of Final Doom in 1996. However, unlike the original version, which is not available for modern play or planned for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles, the version being released now is a remastered one from Nightdive Studios in 2020.

Initially, upon its launch, Doom 64 garnered a somewhat divided response, as indicated by its 73 score on GameRankings. However, with the passage of time, it has developed a dedicated fanbase, known as a cult following. Yet, some continue to underestimate it due to the fact that it wasn’t created by the primary developer and originator of the Doom series, id Software.

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2025-01-06 16:12