Reviving the Classics: Top Remastered Games on PC That You Need to Play

Over the years, numerous game developers have sought to breathe new life into their acclaimed masterpieces, presenting gamers with remastered versions of beloved titles featuring enhanced graphics, expanded content, and refined gameplay mechanics. With so many excellent remastered games on the market, opting for top-tier experiences may prove challenging. In this article, we present a curated list of the best-remastered games available on PC – diving headfirst into a blend of nostalgic charm and modern gaming excellence.

1. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition

To kick-start our list is the timeless RTS classic – Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition. Featuring significantly improved graphics, up to 4K resolution re-recorded orchestral soundtrack and enhancements such as auto-farming or zoom options – this remaster satisfies both purists and newcomers alike. Besides revamping original campaigns, developer Forgotten Empires crafted additional campaigns exclusive to this version promising countless hours of top-notch strategic entertainment!

2. Dark Souls Remastered

The notoriously challenging action RPG from FromSoftware was given a fresh coat of paint in its remastered edition. Improved visual fidelity with higher resolution textures and stable 60fps ensures smoother gameplay while preserving tough-as-nails combat mechanics. Whether you're revisiting Lordran or experiencing it for the first time, Dark Souls Remastered offers an unadulterated version of this influential title with modernized improvements.

3. BioShock: The Collection

BioShock: The Collection brings together all three mainline installments in Irrational Games' critically acclaimed series: BioShock, BioShock 2, and BioShock Infinite. Remastered for HD resolutions and with high-resolution textures and character models, this collection offers an immersive journey into the atmospheric worlds of Rapture and Columbia. This bundle also includes additional content like challenge rooms and previously released DLCs to satiate any player's appetite for the series' unmistakable narrative experiences.

4. Commandos 2: HD Remaster

The classic stealth tactics game Commandos 2: Men of Courage has been polished in this high-definition remaster for a new generation of gamers. Equipped with updated graphics, enhanced controls, and remodeled user interface – the HD remastered edition rekindles players' love for the game's impeccably crafted tactical challenges by presenting them in contemporary design!

5. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Special Edition

Open-world RPG enthusiasts rejoiced when Bethesda unleashed The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - Special Edition. Flaunting significantly improved visuals for modern-day systems alongside volumetric god rays or screenspace reflections enhancements - dragons never looked so menacingly real! This remastered edition also incorporates mod support on consoles - encouraging players to tinker with gameplay mechanics to suit individual preferences.

6. Diablo II: Resurrected

Diablo II: Resurrected reimagines Blizzard's revered demon-slaying action RPG masterpiece with outstanding redesigned graphics and revamped audio mixing/effects while maintaining core gameplay mechanics intact, leaving players with an old and new craving for more. Its appeal resonates unyieldingly with both nostalgic charms as well as high-quality, contemporary gaming experiences attuned to this punishing world filled with evil forces that require constant decimation!

7. Final Fantasy VII: Remake

A labor of love by Square Enix, Final Fantasy VII: Remake not only breathes new life into one of gaming's most revered stories but serves as a complete visual and gameplay overhaul of the original. Boasting a revamped combat system aligning with real-time action-oriented battle dynamics alongside awe-inspiring graphics – this ambitious remaster ensures its place in both Final Fantasy enthusiasts' and modern-day RPG fans' hearts.

8. Resident Evil 2 Remake

CAPCOM took a gamble when they decided to rebuild Resident Evil 2 from the ground up, successfully surpassing expectations with their magnificent effort evident throughout every riveting moment in-game! Grounded within photorealistic graphics depicting Raccoon City alongside unforgettable character models/animations or utilization of a chillingly detailed over-the-shoulder camera angle – the nightmarish world engulfs players as they relive memories plagued by visceral horror!

9. Homeworld Remastered Collection

Homeworld Remastered Collection reinvigorates the classic real-time strategy franchise developed by Gearbox Software. Featuring upgraded graphical fidelity, improved textures, and shader support for modern systems, this compilation masterfully revitalizes a series treasured by space strategy connoisseurs without losing sight of its core gaming essence.

10. Black Mesa

Black Mesa is a ground-up remake of Valve's masterpiece Half-Life, originally released in 1998. Developed by Crowbar Collective, this engaging first-person shooter seeks to recreate the distinctive Half-Life universe with impressive visuals and various game enhancements. The remaster features reimagined environments and expansions on the original storyline while preserving its iconic atmosphere. Moreover, it comes with a modernized multiplayer mode that will keep enthusiasts entertained for hours.

11. Shadow of the Colossus (2018)

Shadow of the Colossus initially launched in 2005 for consoles and became a cult classic known for its unique art style and rather emotional story. The 2018 version developed by Bluepoint Games is not just a remaster but a complete remake from the ground up. The visuals are thoroughly modernized to showcase an unparalleled level of detail, accompanied by improved controls and camera functionality. While maintaining its heart-wrenching storyline, the remake ensures that fans worldwide can relive this profound experience on modern gaming platforms – including a PC release that long-time devotees eagerly await.

12. Grim Fandango Remastered

Point-and-click adventure enthusiasts will remember Grim Fandango, an unforgettable classic released in 1998. Developed by Double Fine Productions and led by original creator Tim Schafer, the remastered version offers gamers the chance to relive this brilliant noir-inspired tale with updated visuals and gameplay enhancements. The remaster boasts improved character textures, dynamic lighting effects, and a re-recorded orchestral soundtrack that elevates the game's atmosphere. Additionally, it includes developer commentary, offering insights into the creative process behind this iconic title.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to rediscover a cherished childhood classic or hoping to explore a renowned title with vastly improved graphics – these amazing remasters are certain to leave lasting impressions on PC gamers worldwide. So, buckle up and enjoy unforgettable journeys across various remarkable universes!