Game Boy Advance (GBA) games were amazing back then, but they might feel a bit old now since those games are literally decades old. Still, there's something special about them that deserves a fresh start. Here are seven GBA games that need a remake.
Best game boy advance games that need a remake
7. Final Fantasy VI Advance
Of all Final Fantasy games that should receive a remake, it should be Final Fantasy VI. The last 2D mainline Final Fantasy need not have the treatment of Final Fantasy VII remake, an HD-2D reskin akin to Secret of Mana should be enough. In terms of core gameplay, Final Fantasy VI may not be the best Final Fantasy game as that title is usually reserved for X and XII, depending on who is being asked.
An updated version of Final Fantasy VI could offer modern audiences the opportunity to fully appreciate this intricate character-driven JRPG. Infusing contemporary gameplay features like save anywhere, tempered down random battle chances, and faster pace, among other things that are more aligned with today's standards.
There is a reason why this game is often cited as one of the greatest games of all time. A remake that does not drastically change the core gameplay should be enough. Additionally, the soundtrack will not be limited by the GBA hardware. An orchestral version of its incredible soundtrack should be a priority for the remake.
The reason that this game is well below this list is not because it is the worst of all the games listed, but Final Fantasy VI is already great in this form. A remake is nice but in its SNES form, GBA form, except you PlayStation One form, including the Pixel Remaster, is a great version in their own right.
6. Fire Emblem: The Binding Blade
The Binding Blade is a classic Fire Emblem game, but it has never been localized for any region other than Japan. Although there is already a complete English translation patch, many fans of the series have never had the opportunity to play it even after the fact. A remake of Binding Blade would allow these fans to experience this classic game for the first time.
An otherworldly difficult Fire Emblem game is always welcome, as challenging battles define the series. However, The Binding Blade's difficulty lacks balance unlike The Blazing Blade, which offers a more accessible entry point. It strikes a balance between challenge and approachability, catering to players of all skill levels. Compared to its counterpart, The Blazing Blade streamlines gameplay while remaining engaging, making it an inclusive experience from start to finish. The Binding Blade's excessive difficulty potentially hinders newcomers from experiencing Fire Emblem.
A remake of Binding Blade could address these gameplay issues, especially in spawn points. There will be a lot of changes for the remake of the binding blade in order to entice and not repel modern gamers. Or Nintendo could retain all of its quirks and add fan service and romance as Fire Emblem has an army of that kind of fans ready to consume whatever that is.
5. Castlevania: Circle of the Moon
Circle of the Moon presents a notably challenging gameplay experience that sets it apart from other Castlevania games. Its enemy encounters and an unforgiving damage system often lead to swift defeat. While leveling up the protagonist, Nathan, gradually eases the difficulty, new challenges arise from enemy placements, particularly in precision-required platforming sections.
Sub-weapons are acquired from candles and torches, requiring hearts for use; their effectiveness varies depending on the situation. Armor, health items, and cards are obtained from defeated enemies, with equipment influencing progression, echoing Symphony of the Night's mechanics.
So, what does this entail? There is a very simple answer to that. Due to the popularity of From’s Souls games, people want all that smoke. Challenging games are the hotness right now. Circle of the Moon was maligned for being that difficult, hence a remake of the game will have a far more tolerating modern audience.
Another prominent gameplay element that should be explored more in the remake of Circle of the Moon is the card system. The card system's versatility is evident, with different cards offering diverse effects useful across various stages. Some cards enhance strength, while others grant unique whip abilities that can sway victory or defeat. The randomness of card acquisition and the significance of their combinations adds a layer of complexity to the game's later stages.
4. NFL Blitz 20-03
Midway is dead, and so are other NFL games due to EA’s exclusive contract with the league. Nevertheless, an arcade version of the sport should be made available right now. EA already has the rights to the game’s name and license to make NFL games. Madden games are great on the sim aspect of football, but sometimes everybody needs some arcade action.
The last game of the series was released back in 2012 and it is just merely the shadow of what was once a great franchise. Due to the controversy over the athlete’s health and the NFL’s stance on their safety, the excessive violence was tamed down over the years. It might not suit the modern audience now, but EA need not make it a Mortal Kombat but more of a Bugs Bunny type of cartoony violence. Somehow, someway, there got to be a way for Blitz to come back, with all the violence—or none of them.
3. Monster Rancher Advance 2
If monster-raising outside the realm of Pokémon piques one’s interest, then Monster Rancher should be on that gaming list. Regrettably, the franchise hasn't seen significant new releases lately. While the remastered versions of the first and second Monster Rancher games, initially launched on the original PlayStation, were released in 2021 for both PC and the Switch, the pocket edition of the game remains overlooked in terms of similar treatment.
The evolution of Nintendo's Switch, merging its handheld and home console capabilities into a single device, has transformed how gamers engage with titles. This shift prompts consideration for a modern remake of Monster Rancher, capitalizing on the various methods available for acquiring monsters.
While the GBA version relies on the password system, the console iterations require disc swapping to access creatures. Adapting this mechanic to contemporary hardware could involve scanning a player's digital library or even cartridge swapping, leveraging the potential partnership with console manufacturers or digital storefronts to introduce such a unique and engaging feature.
2. Shining Soul 2
Which game, besides the Diablo titles, takes an extended period to release? The answer lies in the Diablo-like anime RPG, Shining Soul. Shining Soul, is a game often referred to as the GBA's equivalent of Diablo. Shining Soul 2 is touted as an improvement over the original.
While the RPG's plot follows the familiar pattern of good versus evil, the game's presentation leaves much to be desired. A poor translation results in painfully awkward dialogue, with characters delivering stilted lines. The cumbersome text display, limited to two lines, slows the pace further, compounded by the inability to skip text. This should be the first to be overhauled although not essential in core gameplay aspects it is indeed an annoying experience.
Players choose a character class and embark on an RPG and hack 'n' slash adventure. With classes like Warrior, Ninja, Sorceress, and more, each offers distinct gameplay mechanics. The game's hybrid nature, blending RPG attributes with real-time combat, ensures engaging and addictive gameplay. Character attributes and skill levels contribute to the strategic depth.
Item diversity adds complexity, ranging from regular gear to unidentified items that require identification. Prefixes, suffixes, and grind numbers enhance item uniqueness, akin to Diablo's approach. The ability to stockpile upgrade points for later use sets Shining Soul 2 apart from all the JRPGs which ties an automatic constant growth in level-ups. Notably, multiplayer gameplay elevates the experience, although each player must have a copy of the game. Now, do this in modern times and a good A-JRPG is in every gamer's hands.
1. Ultimate Puzzle Games
Here's why: Firstly, it offers a vast collection of games that are virtually endless in terms of playability. Secondly, puzzle games, no matter how simple, excel at keeping us entertained during downtime. Thirdly, these games have cognitive benefits, sharpening our mental faculties. Lastly, the modern versions of this game tend to incorporate tweaked gameplay mechanics to extract more money from players.
Remaking Ultimate Puzzle Games would ensure a timeless experience just like the original, enhanced with updated puzzles, improved visuals, user interface, and quality-of-life enhancements. Additionally, the possibility of introducing DLC for more puzzle games could further enrich the experience, aligning well with the contemporary digital distribution of games.