“Quake II Remastered” takes players on a nostalgic journey back to the iconic era of first-person shooters. Developed by id Software and Nightdive Studios, this remaster breathes new life into the classic title while retaining the essence that made the original so beloved.

Graphically, “Quake II Remastered” showcases the power of the PlayStation 5. The visual overhaul is immediately apparent, with enhanced textures, dynamic lighting, and detailed character models. The environments benefit greatly from the improved graphics, transporting players to the gritty, sci-fi world of Stroggos with a level of detail that was unimaginable in the original release. The remaster beautifully captures the game’s dark and foreboding atmosphere, delivering a balance between modern graphical fidelity and the retro aesthetic that fans hold dear.

The gameplay remains true to the original, providing an authentic Quake II experience with a modern twist. The fluidity of movement and frenetic gunplay are as exhilarating as ever, and the remaster introduces quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall experience. The addition of gyroscopic aiming using the DualSense controller adds an extra layer of precision, giving players more control over their shots. This feature blends seamlessly with the traditional controls, offering a satisfying way to take down enemies while maintaining the fast-paced intensity of the original gameplay.

One of the standout features of “Quake II Remastered” is the level design. The intricate and labyrinthine layouts of the levels remain a hallmark of the game, challenging players to explore every nook and cranny to uncover secrets and power-ups. The remaster maintains the authenticity of these layouts while making navigation smoother and more intuitive. The modernized map design adds waypoints and markers, alleviating some of the potential frustration that could arise from getting lost in the complex architecture.

The audio design of the remaster is equally impressive. The haunting ambient sounds, eerie echoes, and iconic weapon noises have been reimagined with greater clarity and depth. This auditory enhancement contributes to the immersive experience, effectively pulling players into the tension-filled atmosphere of the game. The implementation of 3D audio technology further elevates the soundscape, allowing players to accurately pinpoint the direction of enemy movements and gunfire.

However, while “Quake II Remastered” successfully modernizes various aspects of the game, there are a few areas that could have been further improved. The character animations, while enhanced, still exhibit some of the stiffness and limitations of the original release. While this can be attributed to preserving the authentic feel of the game, it does stand out against the otherwise polished visuals.

Additionally, the user interface could benefit from more modern touches. While the remaster includes some quality-of-life updates, certain elements of the interface and menu navigation still feel dated. A more streamlined and user-friendly menu system could enhance the overall experience and help players transition more smoothly between gameplay and options.

In conclusion, “Quake II Remastered” for the PlayStation 5 is a loving tribute to a classic title that shaped the first-person shooter genre. The visual enhancements, combined with the authentic gameplay and modernized features, create a package that appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. The attention to detail in preserving the original atmosphere while incorporating modern improvements is commendable. While there are minor areas for improvement, such as character animations and user interface design, they do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the remaster. For players seeking a blend of nostalgia and modern gaming convenience, “Quake II Remastered” offers an exciting journey back to the roots of FPS gaming, complete with a fresh coat of technological paint.

*This Review Code was so generously provided by the publisher for review*

Developer: id Software  Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Release date: 
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch, PC
Platform Reviewed on: PlayStation 5

Quake 2

9.99

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