As the gaming world celebrates the 20th anniversary of the cult classic Beyond Good & Evil, it's finally time to dust off those crop tops, put on your best green scarf, and jump back into the eclectic world of Hillys. This remastered edition not only pays homage to the unique story but also introduces modern twists. So, suspecting a significant glow-up from the original? Well, buckle up, because we're taking a deep dive into character arcs and plot that'll have you questioning the very fabric of reality... or at least your ability to take good selfies.
From the get-go, you're thrust into the shoes of Jade, an investigative reporter whose combat skills are as impressive as her journalistic prowess. Players control Jade from a slick third-person perspective as they run, jump, sneak, and bash their way through an alien-infested world. Tackling puzzles and monsters alike requires a mix of brains and brawn, as you yell at your screen 'How is this game 20 years old?!' while mastering some not-so-subtle stealth mechanics. Grab your trusty Daï-jo staff to smack enemies, use delightful discs to attack from afar, and let's not forget Jade's photographer aspirations that help you capture the wildlife for... well, we're not sure what. But hey, you earn Pearl currency from this, which upgrades your hovercraft because obviously, nothing says 'revolution' like blinging out your space car. Don't even get me started on the minigames! Racing through Hillys in that hovercraft? Pure adrenaline - not just because you're trying to outrun threats but also your likely history of hitting every wall. The enhanced graphics in the Anniversary Edition make this multi-faceted game feel vibrant and fresh, while the gameplay stays true to its original foundation, giving you a dash of nostalgia with just enough gloss to not feel like you're using an old VHS tape. Imagine your old photographs revitalized with Instagram filters, ladies and gents.
The visual upgrade in this edition is akin to seeing your high school crush two decades later-what was once charmingly awkward is now stunningly gorgeous. It's like replacing all the dusty, pixelated memories with high-definition wonders. The animations are smoother, colors pop like confetti at a party, and the world of Hillys is more immersive than ever. Watching Jade leap into action feels like admiring a dance routine; each movement crafted with artistry. Moreover, the charming character designs, from the quirky Double H to the sinister DomZ, have been polished to perfection. Each environment showcases a style that feels both hand-painted and computer-generated, blending together in a way that makes you want to take screenshots for your Insta-no filters required. Honestly, leave the filters for selfies; this game artwork already does the heavy lifting.
Returning to Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition is like catching up with a long-lost friend who's now a marvel of modern-day aesthetics while still holding the nostalgic charm that captivated players years ago. With its rich storyline, memorable characters, and whimsically engaging gameplay, it's clear that Michel Ancel's labor of love continues to thrive, transcending time like a fine wine that only gets better with age. Whether you're reliving your youthful days or discovering Hillys for the first time, there's no excuse-not even procrastination-to skip out on this adventure. So grab that controller, summon your inner journalist, and let the world know that Beyond Good & Evil is still a force to be reckoned with. One revolution for truth at a time!