ThePlayStation 5is a console that needs no introduction.Sony’shigh-powered system already supports a large library of exclusives. With this new generation of visual enhancements, companies are starting to look at older games and are bringing them back using new game engines and fresh coats of paint.
10 Best Remakes Currently Available on Steam
The best top-to-bottom recreations of classic video games available on the Steam store.
Sure, remaking something that’s near and dear to fans can be a touchy subject. You can findplenty of examplesof how a poor remake can lose the charm and style that made the original great. However, there are just as many phenomenal examples of how remakes can work, and there’s plenty to be found on the PS5.
While certain entries on this list were originally released for the PS4, they’re still available on the PS5, and look and play as if they were made for it.
10Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
The Forefather of JRPG Adventures
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
Dragon Quest III basically invented the JRPG genre when it was released back in 1988. Classic turn-based combat set in a large and imaginative fantasy world. It certainly helped that the artwork was done by the late and great Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball andso many other unforgettable works. When a remake was announced, fans were understandably cautious.
Thankfully,Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remakerespects its origins. Despite the mouthful of a title, the game maintains the charming art style fans loved about the original. Rather than make it completely 3D, the game combines classic 2D sprite graphics with enhanced visuals and effects of a modern system. Now, fresh audiences can enjoy the fun turn-based adventure with their party of companions. It’s a long game though, so prepare to invest some time.
9Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Three Gems in One
Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Once upon a time, there was a purple dragon named Spyro. He went on many amazing adventures exclusive to the PlayStation, before unfortunately falling into obscurity. Finally, he’s made his big return in theSpyro Reignited Trilogy, featuring not one, but three of his original games.
With all new amazing cutscenes, animations, and colorful graphics, the remake still maintains the fun that made Spyro so memorable. Collect loot and show what dragons are capable of as you save the realm with Spyro and his friends. If you’re a returning fan, you’ll see the classic platforming adventure has been reborn with love and care. And if you’re new to the franchise, there’s no better time to start than now.
8The Last of Us Part 1
The Remake Forgot to Include Tissues
The Last of Us Part I
As one of the most groundbreaking exclusives to come out for the PlayStation, one can argue that the first Last of Us was already a technical marvel that didn’t require a full remake. Whether you agree or disagree that the remake was needed, it doesn’t detract from what is an incredible game for PS5 players who want to get the best out of their hardware.
Featuring faster load times and enhanced AI, the remake comes packaged with the Left Behind DLC. And if you loved the weapon upgrades from Part 2, they’ve been adapted into Part 1 to add to the immersion. Despite the changes, the heartbreaking story and extraordinary gameplay are still the same as it ever was. They just have a few extra improvements for added flair.
7Demon’s Souls
The Birth of Soulslike Adventure
Demon’s Souls
Before there wasDark Souls, there was Demon’s Souls, a PS3 exclusive that sadly went overlooked. Considered too strange and challenging by critics, the game underperformed compared to its spiritual successor, Dark Souls. But thanks to positive feedback shared among players, Demon’s Souls gained a cult following, one powerful enough that its remake became a launch title for the PS5.
The kingdom of Boletaria has fallen to the Old One. As the Slayer of Demons, only you can stop it. Get stronger by collecting souls and defeating boss monsters, but if you die, you lose your souls and start back with nothing. If you missed out on your chance to experience Demon’s Souls, you have to add this to your must-play list. As a Dark Fantasy, the remake looks disturbing and mind-blowing, while remaining just as challenging as the original.
6Persona 3 Reload
Battling Shadows of Mass Destruction
Persona 3 Reload
It’s a typical story about a group of high schoolers. They study for tests, get part-time jobs, forge friendships, climb a tower, battle shadows, fight God… wait that sounds insane. Well, if fighting the Tower of Tartarus to save the world using powerful manifestations of the subconscious alongside teenagers, a robot, and a dog sounds insane, thenPersona 3 Reloadis one mad remake.
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They’re man’s best friend. They’re a gamer’s faithful companion. They’re in a list to decide the top-ranking doggies in gaming.
Fans of the original might not be happy with some changes, like the fact you’re stuck with a male lead, whereas in the original, you can choose between a male or female. However, that’s a minor nitpick in what is a flawless remake. Every detail of the story is told with solid in-game and anime-style cutscenes, with incredible voice acting. Even the Social Links and side stories have been given greater depth. The combat, menus, and UI have all been upgraded and stylized for veteran and new players to enjoy.
5Shadow of the Colossus
How Far Will You Go?
Shadow of the Colossus (2018)
The originalShadow of the Colossuswas one of the most breathtaking experiences in gaming. It was about the story, the immersion, and the giants you faced. No gimmicks. No minigames. No crafting. No grappling hook. Just the player and the game. To try and remake it would be blasphemous. Yet they did it anyway and nailed it.
The Forbidden Lands and Colossi look better than ever. The visuals look lifted straight out of a photorealistic fantasy film. Add in the framerate boost, and the whole game runs faster than ever. Though the assets have been remade from the ground up, the story and core gameplay remain unchanged as you roam a massive land fighting 16 giants to save someone important to you. No matter the cost. Minimal changes or not, at least newcomers can experience Shadow of the Colossus’ glory on modern hardware.
Make Us Whole… Again
Dead Space (2023)
If the firstDead Spacescared you, the remake will have you on the edge of your seat. Every detail from the original has been rebuilt and upgraded. You’re not just trapped on a large map as you go from level to level. The Ishimura is connected and fully explorable, but now with enhanced lighting, it’s even darker and more littered with Necromorphs than ever before.
The iconic monsters have gone through some changes, featuring more thorough gore as you chip off pieces of their flesh and body parts with weapons that have stronger improvements and more punch to them. There are even side quests for upgrades and more lore for the story. As for the plot, new twists and turns have been added, including new voice acting. Now, the once silent Isaac Clarke can speak, and even his voicework is detailed as Isaac’s tone changes depending on the state of his health.
3Resident Evil 4
Survival Horror Gets a Makeover
Resident Evil 4
WhenResident Evil 4debuted in 2005, it completely changed the genre of Survival Horror forever. There was more action, weapons, a loot and merchant system, better controls, and a world full of new and creepy monsters. No zombies though. Regardless, after experiencing the graphical and gameplay reimagining of Resident Evil 2, fans were eager to see Leon Kennedy’s greatest adventure get the same treatment.
As expected, theRE4 Remakedid not disappoint. The atmosphere and enemies are darker and creepier than before. The control scheme has been modernized to allow players the ability to aim and move. The mysterious Merchant now has a bigger presence and also gives players special requests for rewards. The combat received enhancements too, including the combat knife. Now, it can help parry attacks, including chainsaws. Look, it’s Resident Evil—the series jumped the zombified shark ages ago.
2Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
The Tale of Cloud Strife Continues
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
TheFinal Fantasyname has changed hands over the years. From Nintendo to Sony, the classic RPG series has been an icon for years. When Final Fantasy VII dropped on the original PlayStation, its story, music, and gameplay were hailed as a masterpiece of true fantasy gaming. Now, what was one game is being remade into a trilogy.
Call it crazy, call it unnecessary, but PlayStation players are hailing the second remake, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, asone of the best PS5 exclusives. With combat that’s been turned into a hybrid of Action/RPG, the story follows the continuing adventures of Cloud Strife as he and his companions battle Shinra and legendary supervillain Sephiroth. Set in a more open-world filled with side quests, minigames, and other activities, there’s a lot to be found in this amazing remake of one of the best games ever made.
Honorable Mentions: The Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy and Destroy All Humans 1 & 2 are fantastic remakes that deserve attention, but this list can’t go on forever.
1Silent Hill 2
Horror Has Never Looked More Gorgeous
Silent Hill 2
It goes without saying thatSilent Hill 2is one of the best-written and scariest horror games imaginable. No one thought it was possible to remake such an iconic game. Many thought it shouldn’t have been possible. Yet theSilent Hill 2 Remake has managed to surpass expectationsand blow fans away.
For those who never played the original, the game was more about survival and puzzle-solving than straight-on combat. The remake has tweaked the fighting just enough to make it more modern, without ruining the atmosphere. You’re not an unstoppable soldier—you’re a widower searching for your supposedly dead wife. And the story and graphics nails the disturbing ambiance, tension, and environment. The town of Silent Hill and its monsters have never looked scarier. Of all the remakes found on the PS5, Silent Hill 2 is one you can’t afford to miss out on.
