The Definitive (But Evolving) List Of Current-Gen Remasters

Update (12/23/17): We've added some new entries and updated the list to reflect the new remaster-related releases and announcements in the last few months.

Original Story:
The PS4 and Xbox One are capable of delivering new and surprising experiences, but some of the best games available for the consoles are the ones you’ve played already. New features, better performance, and improved visuals provide more than enough of a reason to revisit older games, and we’ve assembled a list of the big titles that have won a second life on new hardware. 

Note that this isn’t a comprehensive list of every remaster or remake available, but we try to hit as many as possible. It covers released and upcoming games that have been touched up for current generation of platforms, and we will update the list as games are released and new announcements are made. Until then, read on and relive the past.

ANNOUNCED

Shadow of the Colossus
Release Date: February 6, 2018
Original Version: A PS2 adventure from the team behind Ico, Shadow of the Colossus casts you as a wanderer who battles enormous beasts in hopes of restoring life to a loved one.
New Version: This complete remake of the original game will feature updated visuals and a highly accurate recreation of the gameplay.

Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology
Release Date: February 13, 2018
Original Version: This RPG originally released on Nintendo DS. With a tactical turn-based battle system and a story about different timelines, Radiant Historia feels like a contemporary of classics like Chrono Trigger.
New Version: Featuring new gameplay, added story content, and enhanced presentation on the 3DS, this definitive remaster offers a new take on the experience for fans and newcomers alike.

Devil May Cry Collection
Release Date: March 13, 2018
Original Version: The Devil May Cry games are PS2 classics (well, 1 and 3 are, at least). In these games, Dante helped popularize the stylish action genre with his killer combos involving various melee weapons and firearms.
New Version: This is effectively a remaster of a remaster; the last-gen version of this collection had uneven transition to HD. Capcom has talked about improving the framerate for this PS4, Xbox One, and PC version – but here’s hoping more visual fixes are also in the works.

Resident Evil 2 Remake
Release Date: 2018
Original Version: Starring Leon Kennedy and Clare Redfield, this installment is a fan-favorite. You explore Raccoon City, solve puzzles, and fight zombies – all in a chilling atmosphere. These are all classic elements, but the clunky controls may not hold up as well these days. 
New Version: Little beyond the existence of this project has been revealed (after an interesting public campaign to gauge interest). However, Capcom has emphasized its commitment to capturing the atmosphere of the original.

MediEvil
Release Date: TBA
Original Version: Medievil is a action series that debuted on the original PlayStation. It stars an undead skeleton knight named Dan who uses a variety of weapons (including his own arm) to beat down bad guys.
New Version: Details are still scarce about the remaster. Is it just the first game? Is it both? What about the PSP remake? What we know for sure: It’s coming to PS4 and has 4K support.

Catherine: Full Body
Release Date: TBA
Original Version: A strange mixture of puzzle and romantic drama, Catherine stars a man named Vincent who is dealing with two women, Catherine and Katherine. However, the most intense gameplay revolves around block-pushing sequences.
New Version: In addition to hitting PS4 and Vita, this edition will feature a new love interest, new endings, and more.

Yakuza Kiwami 2
Release Date: TBA
Original Version: The tale of Kazuma Kirya continues in the second entry in the Yakuza series, with enhanced combat and more drama about clan relationships.
New Version: With the recent warm reception to both Yakuza 0 and Yakuza Kiwami, Sega announced a full remake of the second game in the Yakuza series. Along with updated visuals, players can also take the reins of both Kiryu and Majima to explore the underworld of Sotenbori.

Next: The remastered titles that have already released. 

RELEASED

Okami HD
Release Date: December 12, 2017
Original Version: This stylish action/adventure on PS2 has beautiful watercolor visuals, and features a central mechanic all about painting. It plays kind of like the Legend of Zelda games, except you control the god Amaterasu instead of a dude in a tunic. New Version: The critical darling returns once again for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC with 4K HD support, 16:9 widescreen, and additional features removed from previous remasters.

LocoRoco 2
Release Date: December 9, 2017
Original Version: This cute, colorful PSP platformer expands on its predecessor with new abilities like swimming and squeezing through crevices. Of course, it still retains the series’ signature charm.
New Version: This PS4 remaster offers enhanced visuals as well as new ability and challenges.

L.A. Noire Remastered
Release Date: November 14, 2017
Old Version: Rockstar's cinematic, open-world crime drama has players investigating crime scenes and interrogating subjects – all while trying to get to the bottom of a larger mystery.
New Version: In addition to being the first time the game will appear on a Nintendo console, it has received a slew of enhancements, including motion control functionality on the Switch and modified camera angles.

Yakuza Kiwami
Release Date: August 29, 2017
Original Version: This PS2 action/RPG begins the story of Kazuma Kiryu, a Japanese gangster who just got out of prison. Of course, he’s pulled back into yakuza business, and forced to solve problems with his brutal fighting skills.
New Version: A full remake, Kiwami offers updated HD visuals on the PlayStation 4. In addition, the game includes a revamped combat system mirroring Yakuza 0 and new interactions with the series' lovable tyrant Majima. 

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
Release date: July 11, 2017
Original version: Final Fantasy XII is a unique and divisive entry in the long-running series. It has a fantastic ensemble cast, and the gameplay sheds traditional turn-based battles in favor of a Gambit system that has you programming your allies’ responses to various conditions.
New version: The expected visual improvements (like better textures) are all present, and players can even choose between English and Japanese voicework. The major draw, however, is the implementation of the Zodiac Job System, a revamped progression method that was previously available in North America.

Crash Bandicoot: The N. Sane Trilogy
Release date: June 30, 2017
Original version: An iconic platforming hero from the minds at Naughty Dog, Crash Bandicoot helped refine the genre for 3D space. Though the mascot didn’t reach Mario or Sonic levels of fame, his first three installments (which were PlayStation exclusives) won him acclaim.
New version: Rebuilt based on the original designs, developer Vicarious Visions adds some new features to these three titles, including time trials and unified save/checkpoint systems.

LocoRoco
Release date: May 9, 2017
Original Version: The PSP-exclusive puzzle/platformer has players managing a groups of LocoRoco, splitting and combining them to progress.
New Version: On PS4, LocoRoco includes motion controls and the ability to run at 1080p (or 4K on PS4 Pro). Despite the lack of big additions, this release definitely gives more players a chance to appreciate this unique title.

Full Throttle Remastered
Release Date: April 18, 2017
Original Version: A classic LucasArts adventure with a mix of oddball humor and clever puzzles – the signatures of developer Tim Schafer. Players control Ben, the leader of a biker gang looking to clear his name.
New Version: A director commentary and more user-friendly control schemes augment the audio and visual improvements in this rerelease.

The Silver Case
Release Date: April 17, 2017
Original Version: This game from Suda 51 (Killer 7, No More Heroes) didn’t originally release in North America. This PC version of this remaster was the first chance for many of Suda’s fans to try this quirky adventure game, and the PS4 version opens it up to an even larger audience.
New Version: Rewritten puzzles, improved interface, and a remix soundtrack are the main improvements apart from the obvious visual upgrade.

Next: More remastered titles that have already released. 

Bulletstorm: Full Clip Edition
Release date: April 7, 2017
Original version (review): Bulletstorm is a shooter all about conducting a symphony of destruction. Using your weapons alongside various objects in the environments allows you to destroy your foes in gruesome, hilarious, and inventive ways.
New version: Improved graphics, better framerate, and 4K support are the highlights of this new version of People Can Fly’s crass shooter.

Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue
Release Date: January 24, 2017
Original Version (review): Don't be fooled by the name! This isn't a remaster of Kingdom Hearts II; fans already got that with Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix. The original version of this game is Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance, which was a 3DS-exclusive title.
New Version: The main attraction is finally getting a console version Dream Drop Distance, with improved visuals and controls. As an added bonus, the package also contains a short chapter starring Aqua called Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep 0.2 – A Fragmentary Passage, which uses gameplay elements in development for Kingdom Hearts III.

Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection
Release Date: November 15, 2016
Original Versions (reviews: 2, Brotherhood, Revelations): With Ezio, the Assassin’s Creed franchise found a charismatic hero that resonated with audiences. These three games track his rise from novice to master, and set the standard for the series’ open-world formula.
New Version: Despite some weirdness in the visuals, these generally improved iterations include all the single-player DLC for the games, along with two short films that delve deeper into Assassin’s Creed lore.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered
Release: November 4, 2016
Original Version: This influential shooter propelled the already-popular Call of Duty franchise into the stratosphere. Impressive setpieces, tight shooting mechanics, and phenomenal multiplayer set the bar for all shooters that followed.
New Version: The full original campaign and 10 multiplayer maps are available in this remaster, which also features new textures, lighting, and other visual modifications.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Special Edition
Release date: October 28, 2016
Original version (review): If you’re not already familiar with Skyrim, you probably aren’t paying much attention to gaming. This is one of the best open-world RPGs ever made, combining a Norse-inspired setting with first-person combat and plenty of cool character abilities.
New version: Bethesda’s big change for the special edition is support for mods on consoles, which can greatly alter and extend your time in Skyrim. On the visual front, players will see new snow and water shaders, improved lighting, and other pretty additions.

Batman: Return to Arkham
Release Date: October 18, 2016
Original Versions (reviews here and here ): Developer Rocksteady finally found the right way to make a Batman game, tapping into combat, stealth, and investigation (not to mention some great villains) to create the ultimate Batman experience.
New Version: Return to Arkham includes Rocksteady’s first two games in the series, Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. The upgrades are mainly visual, including improved lighting and textures, and DLC is included.

Dead Rising Triple Pack
Release Date: September 13, 2016
Original Version (reviews here and here): Forget the human drama of the zombie apocalypse. Sometimes you just want to kill and humiliate the undead in funny and inventive ways. That’s Dead Rising’s calling card, giving you creative weapons and plenty of zombies to use them on.
New Version: The original Dead Rising, Dead Rising 2, and Dead Rising: Off The Record are the main components here, running in 1080p and 60 frames per second. Some notable missing pieces (like Case 0 and Case West) aren’t enough to negate the fun you can have with the zany zombie-slaying of these offerings.

BioShock: The Collection
Release date: September 13, 2016
Original versions (reviews here and here): BioShock is among the most critically acclaimed series and gaming, and for good reasons. Whether you're underwater exploring Rapture or soaring through the clouds in Columbia, BioShock does a fantastic job mixing fun gameplay, interesting settings, and compelling stories with unexpected twists.
New versions: The collection includes all three single-player campaigns, plus all of the significant story-based DLC – like Minerva's Den for BioShock 2 and Burial at Sea for BioShock Infinite. The whole package will run at 1080p and 60 frames per second on consoles. 

Next: More remastered titles that have already released. 

Resident Evil 4
Release Date: August 30, 2016
Original Version: Simply put, Resident Evil 4 is often hailed as one of the best games ever made. Its disturbing narrative mixed with heart-pounding action and a tense atmosphere make it one of the greats.
New Version: This is a better-looking version of this survival-horror classic, and it includes the “Separate Ways” content starring Ada Wong (which originally released on PS2).

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Bundle
Release Date: July 26, 2016
Original Version (review): These games let players control their favorite Marvel heroes to save the world in cooperative brawling action. The sense of teamwork (and the RPG mechanics under the hood) make these rewarding superhero experiences.
New Version: Despite the main changes just being graphical upgrades and interface improvements to both Marvel: Ultimate Alliance games included in this bundle, the release was plagued by bugs and missing DLC. Marvel made things right with fans eventually, though.

Resident Evil 5
Release date: June 28, 2016
Original Version (review): A change of pace for the series, this installment adds co-op into the formula, letting players teams up as Chris Redfield and Sheva Alomar as they fight off hordes of infected.
New Version: Capcom sticks to its formula of sticking close to the original release (plus DLC) without adding much else. Still, if you’re a big fan of the RE 5, that is probably enough to inspire another playthrough.

Deadlight: Director’s Cut
Release Date: June 21, 2016
Original Version (review): A zombie game that mixes side-scrolling combat with a grim atmosphere, Deadlight puts a fresh spin on the weary undead apocalypse theme.
New version: For the transition to Xbox One and PS4, the director’s cut adds a new survival arena, better visuals, and tweaked controls.

Odin Sphere Leifthrasir
Release Date: June 7, 2016
Original Version: First released on the PS2 in 2007, Odin Sphere combines gorgeous visuals with side-scrolling combat and RPG-inspired progression. Players control five different heroes in sequence to watch a story happen from multiple perspectives.
New Version (review): Fixing more than the technical limitations the game faced on PS2, this remaster also overhauls combat, skills, and leveling to update the mechanics for a new era.

Dead Island Definitive Collection
Release date: May 31, 2016
Original versions (review and review): Techland’s Dead Island and its expansion, Dead Island Riptide, put players in a tropical open world infested by zombies. The brutal combat emphasizes melee maneuvers instead of relying on firearms.
New Versions: In addition to the expected visual upgrades and inclusion of the DLC, this package also comes with an extra bonus: a new, retro-inspired action game called Dead Island Retro Revenge.

Valkyria Chronicles Remastered
Release Date: May 17, 2016
Original Version (review): This strategy/RPG has great characters, a compelling historical fantasy setting, and a surprisingly mature storyline. With a beautiful art style, it’s also easy on the eyes.
New Version: Improved visuals, a better framerate, and the inclusion of DLC may not go above-and-beyond in terms of additions, but offer a reason to play (or replay) this gem.

Next: More remastered titles that have already released. 

Ratchet & Clank
Release Date: April 12, 2016
Original Version: The Ratchet & Clank series is partly responsible for the platforming renaissance of the PS2 era (alongside the likes of Jak & Daxter). It's known for funny writing, outlandish weapons, and clever characters.
New Version (review): The upcoming PS4 exclusive is a reimagining of the original PS2 title. It has similarities, but also new content, making it a fresh start for the series. It is tied to the upcoming Ratchet & Clank film adaptation.

Resident Evil 6
Release Date: March 29, 2016
Original Version (review): This is a divisive entry in the series, doubling down on the co-op seen in Resident Evil 5. With multiple heroes and plenty of action-packed gunplay, there’s plenty of fun to be had even if the sense of horror is diminished.
New Version: Resolution and framerate upgrades mean that players can get a better look at the unfolding horror. You also get all of the DLC add-ons, including various costumes.

Day of the Tentacle Remastered
Release Date: March 22, 2016
Original Version: An adventure game from the glory days of LucasArts, this point-and-click classic features three characters and multiple time periods to deliver a kooky and clever tale.
New Version (review): It’s under development at Double Fine, but the specific features and upgrades for this new edition have not been announced.

Shadow Complex Remastered
Release: March 16, 2016
Original Version: Shadow Complex is a Metroid-style shooter with a modern setting created by author Orson Scott Card (though he didn’t write the game itself). The inventive weapons made this one the early downloadable hits of the last generation.
New Version: Better visuals, additional takedowns, and other new challenges await players returning to this well-received title.

Twilight Princess HD
Release Date: March 4, 2016
Original Version: As usual, Link needs to save Hyrule from evil in Twilight Princess. However, in this adventure, his constant companion Midna makes the journey feel fresh, and the ability to turn into a wolf provides an interesting new way to explore the fantasy-inspired world.
New Version: Accommodations for GamePad support are what primarily what set this Wii U remaster apart. However, Nintendo also added Amiibo support, which have functions like restoring health and unlocking a secret dungeon.

Heavy Rain
Release Date: March 1, 2016
Original Version (review): This narrative-focused mystery puts players in control of multiple protagonists. Their stories all tie together, and as you alternate control among them, you get closer to uncovering the identity of the vicious Origami Killer.
New Version: Like the remaster of Beyond: Two Souls, visual tweaks are the star of the show here. Resolution, shadows, and lighting have been retooled for this release.

Next: More remastered titles that have already released.

Gravity Rush Remastered
Release Date: February 2, 2016
Original Version (review): This fun action/platformer lets players manipulate gravity to their advantage in navigation and combat. As Kat, you take on quests, learn new skills, and fight to save the floating city you call home.
New Version: Now you don’t need a Vita to see what all the fuss is about. In addition to nicer graphics, this edition also makes use of the DualShock controller’s motion-sensing technology.

Resident Evil Zero HD Remaster
Release Date: January 19, 2016
Original Version: A exclusive Nintendo prequel that tells the tale of S.T.A.R.S. medic Rebecca Chamber before the infamous Mansion Incident. This survival horror classic packs in challenge, dual-protagonist gameplay, and intriguing cameos.
New Version (review): Similar to the Resident Evil HD Remaster that released this year, RE Zero's already impressive visuals will benefit from a high definition treatment. A more intuitive, modern control scheme is also available as an alternative to the sometimes clunky legacy tank controls. This is also the first time the game will be available on non-Nintendo platforms (PS3, PS4, 360, Xbox One, and PC).

Final Fantasy VII
Release Date: December 5, 2015
Original Version: This classic RPG is a milestone for the genre, blending together a cinematic story, top-notch battles, satisfying progression, and jaw-dropping (for the time) visuals. Plus, Sephiroth.
New Version: This is not the full remake that Square Enix revealed at E3 2015. Instead, this PS4 release is based on the PC port with upscaled graphics and various cheat options.

Beyond: Two Souls
Release Date: November 24, 2015
Original Version (review): Starring Hollywood talent like Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe, Beyond takes a similar narrative approach as developer Quantic Dream’s other work. The emphasis is on the characters, though the presence of a ghostly entity adds a different dimension here.
New Version: This remaster mainly provides some additional visual flair. However, it also adds a mode where you can play through the story chronological (instead of the timeline-jumping that happens normally).

Deadpool
Release Date: November 17, 2015
Original Version (review): An action game starring the fourth-wall-breaking antihero, Deadpool has some entertaining moments. However, the gameplay doesn't hit many high notes.
New Version: Looks better than the original, and contains the DLC.

Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition
Release Date: October 27, 2015
Original Version (review): This action/RPG hybrid puts players in control of the horseman Death, brother to the first game’s hero, War. The formula mixes stylish combat, dungeon exploration, and plenty of loot.
New Version: Nordic Games bought the Darksiders IP when THQ went out of business, and the company is making tweaks to the resolution, textures, and physics. This rerelease also includes a variety of DLC that was available for the original, including weapons and armor. 

Next: More remastered titles that have already released.

Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection
Release Date: October 9, 2015
Old Version (reviews here and here): One of the defining series of the PS3, Uncharted has treasure hunter Nathan Drake goes on globetrotting adventures in the vein of the Indiana Jones movies.
New Version: This collection includes the single-player campaigns from all three PS3 Uncharted games. In addition to improved visuals, it also has a photo mode and new trophies.

Castle Crashers Remastered
Release Date: September 9, 2015
Old Version: The Behemoth’s old-school, four-player brawler is filled with irreverent humor, zany action, and tons of replay value.
New Version: A better framerate, improved matchmaking, and a new minigame appear to be the major additions to this new Xbox One edition.

Tearaway Unfolded
Release Date: September 8, 2015
Old Version (review): A clever and whimsical Vita-exclusive platformer from Media Molecule, the creators of LittleBigPlanet.
New Version (review): Though it stays true to the original in many ways, the Vita-specific features have been removed and replaced with PS4-exclusive features. Levels have been changed to allow more exploration, and experience looks and performs better overall.

Dishonored: Definitive Edition
Release Date: August 25, 2015
Original Version (review): Players control an assassin named Corvo, using a combination of stealth and action to complete missions in a variety of different ways.
New Version: Coming to PS4 and Xbox One, the definitive edition touts a visual upgrade along with the inclusion of the post-release DLC.

Gears of War: Ultimate Edition
Release Date: August 25, 2015
Old Version: The grim, post-apocalyptic action (and muscle-headed characters) helped define the Xbox 360 as a destination for shooter fans.
New Version (review): The version isn’t just better looking; it’s rebuilt. It has some minor gameplay tweaks (like reviving allies from cover without standing up), but the team does not want to stray far from the original mechanics.

God of War III Remastered
Release Date: July 14, 2015
Original Version (review): The conclusion to Kratos' rampage of revenge includes outrageous spectacle and brutal combat. You get lots of weapons and cool abilities, and rack up multiple counts of deicide.
New Version (review): A photo mode seems like the only major addition here. Otherwise, the key appeal is the smoother framerate and 1080p resolution.

Next: More remastered titles that are available now. 

Prototype Biohazard Bundle
Release Date: July 14, 2015
Original Version (reviews here and here): The Prototype series involves a super-powered hero (each game has a different protagonist) as they use powerful genetic mutations and wreak havoc in an open world.
New Version: This remastered double-feature released without fanfare. Both games have improved visuals and performance, and they include "a majority" of the pre-order DLC.

Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition
Release Date: June 23
Original Version: This installment splits the player’s time between Dante and newcomer Nero, slashing and shooting through bad guys with the series’ signature style. (This game is old enough that it predates our current website, so we don't have a full review online – but it scored 9/10)
New Version (review): The full original game, plus Legendary Dark Knight Mode and three new playable characters from the series' past: Vergil, Lady, and Trish.

Payday 2: Crimewave Edition
Release Date: June 16
Original Version (review): A shooter with a focus on teamwork and planning. Pulling off a perfect heist is tough (that’s why you have guns), but the rewards are worth the effort.
New Version (review): The post-release content from the PC version – including new heists and weapons – are a part of the re-release. It also has a resolution of 1080p, but don't expect a massive visual overhaul.

Final Fantasy X/X-2 Remaster
Release Date: May 12 
Original Version: A moving story about a group's pilgrimage to save the world of Spira from a beast called Sin. Strategic turn-based battles combine with a stunning atmosphere and surprising plot developments. 
New Version (review): This remaster already hit PS3 and Vita, but the PS4 version promises that NPCs and monsters will get visual upgrades this time around (instead of just the main cast). It also has the new audio drama and remastered soundtrack of the previous iteration.

State of Decay: Year One Survival Edition
Release Date: April 28, 2015
Original Version (review): Life is hard after the zombie apocalypse. Fighting roaming hordes and going on dangerous supply runs, your survivors in State of Decay need to keep it together or pay the ultimate price.
New Version (review): The new Xbox One iteration includes the Lifeline and Breakdown add-ons, plus new weapons and missions. It also has improved graphics and runs at 1080p.

Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin
Release Date: April 7, 2015
Original Version: A punishing action/RPG from the minds at From Software, Dark Souls II is an infamously challenging (and intensely satisfying) experience that pushes your skills to the limit.
New Version (review): Updated graphics and performance are the main features of the new-gen iteration, along with increased online player capacity. It also includes the content from the Scholar of the First Sin patch, which adds various other improvements.

Next: Even more remastered titles that are available now. 

Borderlands: The Handsome Collection
Release Date: March 24, 2015
Original Version: A chaotic shooter from Gearbox, the Borderlands series emphasizes ridiculous action and entertaining cooperative multiplayer.
New Version (impressions): The Handsome Collection includes the two most recent entries – Borderlands 2 and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel. Players also get a load of DLC, extending the potential playtime even further.

Final Fantasy Type-0 HD
Release Date: March 17, 2015
Original Version: Released only in Japan as a PSP-exclusive, this unconventional Final Fantasy title stars a class of magically powered students at the center of a war.
New Version (review): Various adjustments, like improved controls and better graphics, ease this game’s move to consoles. However, the highlight is the simple fact that Type-0 can finally reach fans around the world.

Devil May Cry: Definitive Edition
Release Date: March 10, 2015
Original Version: Ninja Theory’s reboot of the original stylish action series goes in unexpected new directions. Thankfully, combat retains the finesse and skill that fans have come to expect.
New Version (review): Combat tweaks and rebalancing make this more than just a visual upgrade, and players also get the DLC (including costumes and Vergil’s scenario) as part of the package.

Grim Fandango Remastered
Release Date: January 27, 2015
Original Version: This classic adventure game casts players as a reaper/travel agent named Manny who embarks on a journey through the land of the dead. Along the way, strange characters and plenty of puzzles keep you entertained.
New Version (review): Additional control schemes make it easier to navigate, and the redesigned characters look cleaner without losing their iconic appearances.

Saints Row IV: Re-Elected
Release Date: January 20, 2015
Original Version (review): Just when things couldn’t get crazier for the Saints, developer Volition sends them to space in this open-world romp full of crude humor and silly moments.
New Version: A standard suite of upgrades – visuals, performance, DLC – make this one better than its original version. However, the leap forward is not enormous.

Up next: Still more remastered games currently available. 

Grand Theft Auto V
Release Date: November 28, 2014
Original Version: Rockstar is the king of open-world gaming, and GTA V proves that dominance once again. This entry splits the story among three interesting characters, and puts them in a compelling city that you could explore forever.
New Version (review): It may seem like a small thing, but the addition of a first-person mode changes the way you interact with your surroundings and immerses you in the world of GTA V like never before. You can also participate in some new activities and take in the improved graphics.

Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Release Date: November 11, 2014
Original Version: Halo and its hero, Master Chief, helped popularize the first-person shooter genre on home consoles with an array of cool sci-fi weaponry and a story about one soldier’s efforts to save humanity.
New Version (review): The collection includes all four core Halo entries, telling the story of Master Chief up to this point. It also includes the multiplayer modes for each title, making it an excellent value for Halo fans.

The Binding of Isaac Rebirth
Release Date: November 4, 2014
Original Version (review): The minds behind Super Meat Boy put you in control of a crying boy in order to fight your way through randomized dungeons. Don’t let the humor fool you; this is not an easy journey.
New Version: Extra modes, more items, and new characters are great reasons to play this again. However, the game isn’t exactly friendly to newcomers, so prepare for a learning curve.

Bayonetta
Release Date: October 24, 2014
Original Version (review): A stylish action game from the creator of Devil May Cry, Bayonetta is full of flashy combos, fast-paced action, and ridiculously over-the-top moments.
New Version: Included with the purchase of Bayonetta 2, this Wii U version features GamePad support and a crop of special Nintendo-themed costumes. Otherwise, it's the same great game.

Sleeping Dogs: Definitive Edition
Release Date: October 14, 2014
Original Version (review): This open-world game takes place in Hong Kong, which proves to be a lively and compelling backdrop for an undercover cop’s high-stakes investigation.
New Version: Better visuals and improved performance – along with some DLC – makes this return trip to Hong Kong one worth taking.

Up next: Even more remastered games that you can play right now. 

Metro Redux
Release Date: August 26, 2014
Original Version: A bleak post-apocalyptic world has players wandering through the subway tunnels that humanity now calls home. An emphasis on creating an intense atmosphere makes this shooter more unsettling than the typical fare.
New Version (review): Redux contains remastered versions of both Metro games, plus the ability to focus more on the shooting or survival elements. Better visuals, enemy A.I., and weapon handling all make the experience smoother.

Diablo III: Ultimate Evil Edition
Release Date: August 19, 2014
Original Version: Blizzard’s popular action/RPG had some hitches at launch, but those worked themselves out over time. The result is a fun and addictive hack-and-slash experience ideal to play with friends.
New Version (review): In addition to the Reaper of Souls expansion, this edition of Diablo III has perks like the apprentice mode, which makes it easy for players of all levels to join up and kill stuff together.

The Last of Us Remastered
Release Date: July 29, 2014
Original Version: Naughty Dog’s stark and harsh vision of the future has survivors of a zombie apocalypse working hard to stay alive and hang on to what makes them human. The story focuses on a man (Joel) protecting a girl (Ellie) in this dangerous and unpredictable world.
New Version (review): The Last of Us on PS4 looks fantastic, which is saying something considering how great it looked before. The gameplay is largely unchanged, but you also get the Left Behind DLC, which stars Ellie before she and Joel crossed paths.

Oddworld: New N' Tasty
Release Date: July 22 2014
Original Version: A side-scrolling puzzle game that puts you in control of a lovable dope named Abe. He escapes from a gruesome meat factory and finds his destiny as an unlikely savior.
New Version (review): A remake from the ground up, New N' Tasty captures the humor and charm of the original while rebuilding it to accommodate more modern gameplay sensibilities.

Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition
Release Date: January 28, 2014
Original Version: Crystal Dynamics presses reset on its iconic franchise, introducing players to a young and inexperienced Lara Croft. Her adventures in this reboot are harrowing, making this heroine seem more vulnerable than she ever has before.
New Version (review): Despite issuing some commands via voice or touchpad, this is primarily a prettier version of the original. The addition of the DLC and multiplayer content is a plus, so if you haven’t played Tomb Raider before, this is the way to go.