The prospect of a beloved game getting a remake often brings a mix of excitement and apprehension. Will it capture the magic of the original, or will it expose its flaws in the harsh light of modern gaming standards? Thankfully, Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster proves that some classics not only endure but thrive with a fresh coat of paint. This reimagining of Capcom’s experimental 2006 zombie game stays faithful to its roots while making thoughtful improvements that enhance the experience without sacrificing its unique charm.
Frank talks to Jessica in Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster.Frank West interviews a survivor in Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster.
A Satirical Bite Remains Sharp
Dead Rising follows photojournalist Frank West as he investigates a zombie outbreak in the quarantined town of Willamette, Colorado. Trapped in a sprawling shopping mall for 72 hours, Frank must uncover a government conspiracy, rescue survivors, and battle psychopaths, all while managing the ever-ticking clock. Even after 16 years, the game’s satirical commentary on American consumerism and the tragic consequences of government overreach remains remarkably relevant. The psychopaths Frank encounters, often ordinary people driven to extremes by the crisis, offer glimpses into the human cost of the outbreak. While the game’s portrayal of mental health can feel simplistic, Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster still provides ample opportunities for empathy and reflection on the societal systems that contribute to such disasters.
Emergent Gameplay Creates Unforgettable Moments
Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster excels at generating emergent gameplay moments reminiscent of titles like Dragon’s Dogma 2, but with hordes of undead replacing mythical beasts. The 72-hour time limit demands strategic decision-making, while the mall environment encourages improvisation with a vast array of makeshift weapons, from cash registers to gardening tools. This combination of urgency and creativity leads to thrilling and often hilarious scenarios. Discovering a vehicle and mowing down zombies, escorting a group of survivors through a dense horde, or accidentally taking out a survivor with a misplaced sledgehammer swing – these are the moments that define the Dead Rising experience.
Frank rides a bike in Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster.Frank West utilizes the environment to traverse the mall and escape the zombie horde in Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster.
A Respectful Modernization
The Deluxe Remaster doesn’t attempt to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it focuses on refining the core experience. Visually, the game receives a significant upgrade, showcasing the original’s vibrant art style with enhanced fidelity and a stable frame rate. While not a complete overhaul, the graphical improvements bring the game up to par with modern AAA titles. The redesigned Frank West and his new voice actor, Jas Patrick, might be divisive, but Patrick captures the character’s essence while adding a touch of grit. The most significant gameplay improvements are the addition of auto-saves and the ability to move while shooting. While some might argue that auto-saves diminish the impact of the time limit, they primarily serve as a welcome relief from repeating lengthy treks after failing a psychopath encounter. The time-fast forward feature at Frank’s hideout also helps mitigate downtime for players focused on the main narrative.
Room for Improvement
Despite its strengths, Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster plays it a bit too safe in some areas. Expanding on the narrative through additional cutscenes or context could have addressed some of the original’s clunkier plot points. The psychopath boss fights, while retaining their challenging nature, could have benefited from a visual and presentational upgrade to align with contemporary game design standards.
Frank West rides a motorcycle in Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster.Frank West utilizes a motorcycle to escape the undead hordes in Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster.
A Classic Reborn
Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster is a testament to the enduring appeal of innovative game design. It’s a fantastic entry point for newcomers and a welcome return for longtime fans. This remaster not only preserves the spirit of the original but also demonstrates Capcom’s understanding of its legacy. It’s a compelling argument for the return of Dead Rising and its distinctive brand of emergent gameplay.
Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster was tested on PS5.
