FromSoftware Dark Souls Remastered

The remaster maintains Dark Souls' iconic art direction while implementing technical improvements that enhance the overall experience. The resolution bump to 1080p and consistent 60fps framerate on most platforms (30fps on Switch) makes combat feel more responsive and precise. Infamous performance trouble spots like Blighttown now run smoothly, allowing players to fully appreciate the intricate level design without technical distractions.

The core gameplay mechanics remain masterfully crafted, with methodical combat that demands patience and skill. Each weapon feels distinct, with nuanced movesets that reward mastery. The interconnected world design continues to impress, with shortcuts and passages that fold back on themselves in clever ways. While the visuals may not match modern games, the art direction and atmosphere remain haunting and effective.

The remaster adds welcome quality-of-life features like additional bonfires, improved menu navigation, and password matchmaking for multiplayer. The online systems for cooperative and competitive play work more reliably than the original release. However, some dated elements like rigid animations and occasional camera issues remain unchanged.

From a value perspective, the remaster's pricing varies by platform and whether you own the original. The Switch tax makes Nintendo's version the most expensive, though the portable functionality may justify the cost for some. PC players who already own the original can upgrade at a discount. While the improvements may seem modest, this is unquestionably the best version of a landmark game that influenced a generation of action RPGs.