Title: The Golden Era Revived: 5 Timeless RPGs That Merit a Modern Remaster

Three years back, I curated a selection of five classic PlayStation RPGs that were significantly overdue for a remaster. To my surprise, one of those selections—Lunar: Silver Star Story and Eternal Blue—is at last being revitalized in the forthcoming Lunar Remastered Collection. This marks yet another triumph for RPG enthusiasts, who have witnessed a resurgence of classic titles in recent times.

From the immaculate Suikoden I & II HD Remaster to the breathtaking Dragon Quest III HD-2D remake, and from Persona 3 Reload to Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven, the genre is undergoing a complete revival. Even iconic non-RPG titles like Legacy of Kain and Tomb Raider are regaining their prominence. With this wave of enthusiasm, it’s time to highlight a few more RPGs that are still on the sidelines, awaiting a modern remaster.

Honourable Mentions: The Other Four from the 2022 Wishlist

Before we delve into the top five, let’s remember the other four titles from my initial 2022 list that still warrant their time in the limelight: Jade Cocoon: Story of the Tamamayu, Xenogears, Legend of Dragoon, and Legend of Legaia. Each of these games contributed something distinct, from monster-cultivating mechanics to deep storytelling, and they continue to hold a devoted following.

Now, let’s investigate five additional RPGs that are primed for a remaster.

5) Wild Arms

Debuting in 1997, Wild Arms unfortunately released just prior to Final Fantasy VII, which overshadowed nearly everything surrounding it. However, Wild Arms established its own identity with a Western-themed setting, a distinctive prologue layout, and a blend of 2D characters and 3D worlds that connected the 16-bit and 32-bit generations.

The franchise extended across five main games and several offshoots, all set in the realm of Filgaia. While the narratives varied, they consistently explored themes of technology versus nature and an adventurous spirit.

A remaster—be it of the original, its PS2 remake, or a complete series package—would provide a refreshing change from the typical fantasy or sci-fi narratives. With Media.Vision still engaged and a spiritual successor, Armed Fantasia, on the horizon, the conditions may be favorable for a Wild Arms revival.

Likelihood of Revival: Low to moderate. The components are present, but it would require a publisher willing to invest in a niche classic.

4) Skies of Arcadia

First launched on the Sega Dreamcast and subsequently ported to the GameCube, Skies of Arcadia is a daring RPG that embodied the spirit of adventure like few others. Players soared through the skies as Vyse and his Blue Rogues, confronting the tyrannical Valuan Empire while uncovering a vibrant world filled with floating islands and ancient mysteries.

Despite its charm and critical acclaim, Skies of Arcadia has remained a treasure of a cult, primarily due to the limited success of its initial platforms. A remaster could present this prized title to a fresh audience, particularly with the current popularity of pirate-centric media like One Piece.

Likelihood of Revival: Fair. Recent Sega trademark activities indicate potential developments, and the game’s essence would resonate well with contemporary fans.

3) Final Fantasy Tactics / Final Fantasy IX

These two games are frequently mentioned together in discussions about remaster speculation—and rightly so.

Final Fantasy Tactics is a tactical RPG landmark that significantly shaped the genre for a wider audience. While it received a PSP remaster (War of the Lions), a definitive edition that merges the best elements of both versions is long overdue.

Final Fantasy IX, on the other hand, is a homage to the series’ foundations. It merges the finest aspects of the 2D era with the cinematic style of the PS1 generation. Although it has been adapted for modern platforms, it deserves more than just an upgrade in resolution.

Likelihood of Revival: High. Trustworthy sources have suggested that both remasters are in the works. It’s more a matter of when, rather than if.

2) Xenosaga Trilogy

The Xenosaga trilogy—Episodes I through III—was a bold endeavor to narrate a grand sci-fi story. Initially intended as a six-part epic, it was condensed into three installments due to lackluster sales and production hurdles.

Nonetheless, the trilogy has maintained its status as a cult favorite, celebrated for its profound philosophical themes, cinematic storytelling, and unforgettable characters like Shion Uzuki and KOS-MOS. With physical copies of Episode III selling for over $200, the need for a remaster is compelling from an accessibility standpoint alone.

Monolith Soft, now widely recognized for the Xenoblade Chronicles series, has