Over the past few years, there’s been quite a bit of debate surrounding PlayStation’s fondness for remastered and remade games. This debate might be due to increasing development costs and the growing time gap between Sony’s major, highly anticipated game releases. A former PlayStation executive, Shuhei Yoshida, recently hinted at this possibility by stating that these re-releases serve as a means of financing future games for them.
Although some might question the urgency and quality of these newly released titles, it’s important to note that they aren’t all of the same caliber. Some remasters have been quite impressive, while others appear more like money-making schemes. Here’s a comparison of these first-party PS5 remasters (excluding 2020’s Demon’s Souls, The Last of Us Part 1 from 2021, and the 2024 release Until Dawn – which are remakes). In simpler terms, we’re comparing these PS5 remastered games to each other.
8. Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection
Among the Uncharted games, Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End and Uncharted: The Lost Legacy stand out as some of the best due to their refined gameplay mechanics and a more mature, character-centric approach to the series’ treasure-hunting theme. However, when it comes to remasters on the PS5, this collection seems a bit underwhelming.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that the visual enhancements in these games are minimal. This is largely due to their initial impressive graphics on PS4 and PS4 Pro, leaving little scope for further improvement; this is one of the reasons why Naughty Dog games take such a long time to produce nowadays. While the higher frame rate options are appealing, they don’t justify the upgrade cost.
In essence, the primary issue lies in the absence of fresh content. There are no new features or bonus additions that would attract those who already own the remarkable PS4 versions. Moreover, it’s challenging to justify the cost as these games didn’t receive premium DLC focused on single-player experiences. Compared to other studios, even Sony, more has been offered for free in other games.
7. Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
As a dedicated fan, I must admit that I find myself in agreement with many others regarding Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered. It shares a lot of similarities with the Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection – both being remasters with relatively little fresh content to savor.
In comparison to the PS4 version, there are two suits inspired by Spider-Man: No Way Home that have been added, which I appreciate. Moreover, there’s a wealth of accessibility features introduced, making it more inclusive and enjoyable for a wider audience – something that is truly commendable. However, these additions seem to be the extent of what’s new in this remastered version.
In comparison, the visual upgrades in this remaster are significantly noticeable, making it stand out even more. Developer Insomniac Games has incorporated enhanced, high-definition textures on characters and numerous world objects. The lighting has been revamped as well, particularly when using its new ray tracing features. While Marvel’s Spider-Man already looked great on the standard PS4, these advancements go beyond the usual frame rate and resolution boost. However, some players might not appreciate the new look of Peter Parker’s face.
6. Days Gone Remastered
Days Gone, compared to other games in this list, doesn’t quite reach the high standards set by most first-party PlayStation single-player games. However, the remastered version of Days Gone, while it may not be a standout due to its recent and somewhat average quality, still manages to meet enough criteria to be considered an acceptable remaster. It features enhanced visuals such as improved lighting and darker nighttime scenes that suit the zombie-themed gameplay, along with new photo mode enhancements, accessibility options, and additional modes.
The speedrun mode might seem peculiar in a game spanning 30 to 60 hours, yet the permadeath mode aligns with the game’s mood. However, the standout novelty is the Horde Assault mode that overwhelms the screen with undead, pushing the PS4’s limits. Witnessing such a massive on-screen battle is impressive and strengthens the argument for this PS5 remaster. Regrettably, the cycle of slaughtering hordes becomes monotonous swiftly, and it lacks the depth to motivate repeated playthroughs across all four maps for every unlock. The combat in Days Gone isn’t as polished compared to similar games, which means these modes may not offer as much depth as hoped, but adding new features is still a good strategy.
5. The Nioh Collection
The Nioh Collection offers two outstanding action-oriented soulslikes in one package, but it lacks innovation. However, its value compensates for this shortcoming significantly. With two top-tier action RPGs and all six expansions at your disposal, there’s a wealth of content to explore and conquer. The difficulty of these games, as is common with soulslike titles, keeps you on your toes, as understanding the combat mechanics and timing for each enemy adds depth and engagement throughout gameplay. The challenging boss battles are particularly noteworthy, and the improved load times make it easier to jump back into the action following defeats.
In summary, while the lack of fresh content is a significant issue for this remaster, it’s not the only problem. Some essential quality-of-life improvements seen in Nioh 2 were omitted from the original game. The color palette in the first Nioh appears less vibrant compared to its sequel, and the upgrade path can be confusing, potentially requiring players to pay full price. Even the technical upgrades might not justify the purchase because players can adjust the frame rate on PS4 versions within the game settings, making the PS5 version’s improvement less noticeable (although native PS5 versions can run at 120 frames per second). All these aspects make this remaster a complex one, showcasing how crucial value is when it comes to collections like this.
4. Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered stands out uniquely as it combines both a remake and an enhancement, making its visual improvements strikingly apparent. The enriched surroundings, refined lighting effects, and higher-definition character designs help it approach the stunning aesthetics of its sequel. The initial PS4 version was optimized to run at 4K and 60 frames per second on the PS5, but this remaster’s visual quality surpasses that upgrade dramatically, a feat that most other games in this list cannot claim.
The most significant transformation is the introduction of improved motion capture (mocap) in Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. Previously, some dialogue scenes in the 2017 version felt dull due to characters not always gesturing while speaking, which brought back memories of less engaging conversations from Bethesda Game Studios’ earlier RPGs. However, this new mocap system has been implemented to make these conversation sequences more captivating, which is particularly beneficial for a game that emphasizes its story. Although the quality doesn’t quite reach the level of its sequel, and some areas may still appear a bit rough, the updated animations help make the transition to Forbidden West smoother.
In addition to being an ancient pastime, shooting arrows in Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered has been refined with greater precision and offers numerous accessibility options, bringing it up-to-date and making it more consistent with its sequel. The addition of the popular Frozen Wilds DLC also enhances the game’s value. Although there aren’t any major new gameplay features in this remastered version, the meticulous visual enhancements significantly improve the overall gaming experience.
3. Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut
The enhanced version of Ghost of Tsushima, titled Director’s Cut, primarily shines on PS5, but it also saw a release on PS4. However, its significant presence as an exceptional PS5 experience earns it a top spot in this list. The expanded edition’s significance lies in the Iki Island DLC, which served as the primary attraction for many players, and it was indeed a substantial expansion to warrant a full release.
The Iki Island DLC delved into Jin Sakai’s complex father-son relationship and addressed themes of generational trauma that resonated with the main game’s themes while also functioning as a self-contained narrative. Alongside stunning new landscapes and additional enemy types, Iki Island stands out as one of the most impressive recent expansions.
The improved lip-syncing in the Japanese version of the PS5 upgrade is valued, yet it can sometimes be a bit off and serves more as an added bonus rather than a major selling point. Similarly to The Nioh Collection, this Director’s Cut is somewhat limited by how efficiently the original PS4 game was optimized for the PS5, which diminishes some of the technical advantages this native port offers. However, the focus on the Iki Island DLC is what elevates Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut, earning it high praise. While it’s also available on PS4, it underscores that enhancements like these work best when paired with substantial new content.
2. The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered
In contrast to Naughty Dog’s other remaster, “Uncharted: The Legacy of Thieves Collection,” The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered significantly improves by incorporating valuable additions. The inclusion of three previously cut levels offers a fascinating glimpse into the creators’ thought processes during the development of these unfortunate stages. Any peek behind the scenes is always welcomed, and when it’s interactive and accompanied by context, it becomes even more intriguing.
Among the exciting novelties, the standout is the immersive No Return mode, which eschews narrative in favor of endless replayability. This battle-centric expansion allows the combat arena to reach its full potential, offering an extraordinary array of possibilities. With four distinct enemy factions, a multitude of maps, 12 character choices each with unique abilities, several game modes, modifiable scenarios, and a vast arsenal of weapons, every playthrough promises fresh, heart-pounding narratives shaped by the player’s actions.
1. In “The Last of Us Part 2,” the tightly polished gameplay alone repeatedly draws players back for another round, yet the progression system of unveiling fresh skins serves as a delightful extra touch that ties everything together. Although its best new feature is a violent roguelike mode, which seems somewhat ironic given the game’s themes on cycles of violence, this thematic tension makes it an appealing addition to the game.
2. In “The Last of Us Part 2,” the gameplay is so finely tuned that it keeps players coming back for more, and the bonus of unlocking new skins as you progress adds a nice touch to the overall experience. However, the fact that its best new feature is a violent roguelike mode may seem ironic given the game’s focus on cycles of violence, but this thematic tension makes it an intriguing addition to the game.
3. In “The Last of Us Part 2,” the meticulously crafted gameplay keeps players hooked for more, and the reward of unlocking new skins adds a pleasant finishing touch to the experience. Despite its best new feature being a violent roguelike mode, which may seem out of place given the game’s exploration of cycles of violence, this thematic tension makes it an exciting addition to the game.
4. In “The Last of Us Part 2,” the immaculately designed gameplay keeps players wanting more, and the extra incentive of unlocking new skins as you progress provides a satisfying conclusion to the experience. However, the fact that its best new feature is a violent roguelike mode may seem incongruous with the game’s themes on cycles of violence, but this thematic tension makes it an enticing addition to the game.
5. In “The Last of Us Part 2,” the carefully constructed gameplay keeps players coming back for more rounds, and the bonus of unlocking new skins as you advance adds a nice touch that ties everything together. Despite the fact that its best new feature is a violent roguelike mode, which may seem at odds with the game’s themes on cycles of violence, this thematic tension makes it an engaging addition to the game.
1. Death Stranding Director’s Cut
Despite Hideo Kojima’s personal preference against the “Director’s Cut” label, the enhanced version titled Death Stranding Director’s Cut is considered Sony’s finest remaster. Unlike many games on the list, this upgrade doesn’t just offer visual enhancements, but also modifies the core game significantly and effectively. The initially criticized slow start has been improved with new features, making it unnecessary for players to rush through the early expansive sections to reach the strategic planning and detailed management aspects that make Death Stranding unique.
In contrast to the playful homages to Metal Gear Solid, which some might find unnecessary, the fresh gameplay mechanics in Death Stranding Director’s Cut are truly engaging. Unlike the sections reminiscent of Metal Gear Solid, these new features primarily emphasize and enhance Death Stranding’s strong points rather than pointing out its minor shortcomings.
The introduction of a catapult, vehicles, Buddy Bot, jump ramps, bridges, and an endgame hover pack seamlessly integrate with the existing toolset, providing players with additional functionality. The combat system has also received improvements, with the addition of a firing range, expanded melee options, and a taser. Add to that the new racetrack and the ability to replay bosses, and Death Stranding Director’s Cut offers a more comprehensive and refined experience of an already extraordinary game, not just a resolution upgrade (although it does provide that as well).
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2025-04-26 17:15