Nightmares into Dreams
Released in January 2020, Sega’sYakuza: Like a Dragonhad some mighty shoes to fill, specifically the snakeskin shoes of beloved protagonists Kazuma Kiryu. If a change of protagonist wasn’t enough, the developer Team Yakuza also took the bold step of replacing the series’ brawler action with a suitably slapstick take on turn-based strategy. Against all the odds, the changes were a hit with the majority of the fanbase, andYakuza: Like a Dragonlaunched to rave praise, becoming one of 2020’s best-loved titles.
Developed by veteran studio Vicarious Visions,Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2was a ground-up remake of two of the most iconic PlayStation releases of all time. Meticulously recreating the original titles’ maps, mechanics, and rhythm to a 1:1 capacity, Vicarious Visions absolutely delivered, with a title that sports the modern aesthetics of today’s technology, married to the excellent and compelling gameplay of the ’90s classics.Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2is one of the most authentic remakes ever crafted.
Over on the spooky side of life, cult puzzle platformerLittle Nightmareswas developed by indie outfit Tarsier Studios and published by Bandai Namco back in the fall of 2017. Featuring a compelling and unnerving creepy-cute aesthetic,Little Nightmaressees players guide our brave hero, Six, as she picks her way through a twisted, dark world, solving puzzles and avoiding dangers on a quest to return to the real world as we know it. Highly praised for its atmosphere and smart design,Little Nightmareswould be followed by a sequel in 2021.
