Ubisoft’s 20th Anniversary Edition of Beyond Good & Evil is a great way to get re-acquainted with a modern classic while we await news for the oft-delayed sequel. This new release invites players to revisit the world of Hillys in a beautifully remastered version for today’s systems, including the PlayStation 5. It’s hard to imagine that the original game was released over two decades ago, but it is still celebrated for its innovative gameplay, compelling narrative, and memorable characters. This anniversary edition rekindles its charm, but also brings modern enhancements to the table.
The heart of Beyond Good & Evil lies in its characters and story, which follows Jade, a brave photojournalist armed with her daï-jo fighting stick and trusty camera, as she uncovers the truth behind the DomZ alien attacks. The game’s narrative remains captivating and unchanged, blending action, puzzle-solving, and stealth elements seamlessly. The rich lore and the bond between Jade and her companions, such as her adoptive uncle Pey’j and the resilient Double H, are as engaging as ever, and even if you played this one before their interactions will still bring a smile to your face.
The gameplay in the anniversary edition stays true to the original’s mix of exploration, combat, and photography. Players will find themselves solving puzzles, infiltrating enemy bases, and racing hovercrafts. What’s different is that the slightly tweaked controls make these activities a bit more intuitive, and although some mechanics may still feel dated compared to contemporary standards it’s a definite step forward.
One notable new addition is the new speedrun mode, which challenges players to complete the game as quickly as possible, adding a layer of replayability, especially for veterans who think they know the game inside and out. Additionally, the inclusion of autosave and the ability to skip cutscenes are welcome quality-of-life improvements that modernize the experience without compromising any of the original charm.
Graphically, the 20th Anniversary Edition benefits significantly from the power of modern consoles – though it doesn’t stretch the PS5 to its max either. Running up to 4K at 60 fps, the game’s environments and character models are more detailed and vibrant this time around, and the remastered soundtrack and updated audio further enhance the immersive experience, for a more impactful audiovisual experience.
In conclusion, one of the major strengths of this anniversary edition is its ability to retain the essence of the original while providing a visually enhanced experience. The story remains compelling, and the updated graphics and sound elevate the nostalgic feel of the game. The new gameplay modes and quality-of-life features also contribute to a more polished and enjoyable experience. However, certain interactions may appear clunky by today’s standards.
Beyond Good & Evil – 20th Anniversary Edition successfully brings back a beloved classic, offering both longtime fans and new players a chance to experience Jade’s adventure in a polished format. While it has its minor flaws, the game’s enduring charm, enhanced by modern improvements, makes it a worthy addition to any action-adventure enthusiast’s collection – and it has reinvigorated our interest in the sequel.
Score: 8.0/10
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