PlayStation continues its strategy of bringing its games to other platforms, this time partnering with Bandai Namco as the publisher. The chosen title is Freedom Wars, originally released in 2014 for the PlayStation Vita, Sony’s second handheld console. Back then, it was considered a success, although it was limited by the technology of the time.
Now it returns in a remastered version that boosts the resolution up to 4K (from the original 480p), improves performance with 60 FPS, and includes the previously released downloadable content. The package has been technically updated and also features slight gameplay adjustments.
The narrative is both unique and engaging, drawing players in right away. You play as a custom-created character sentenced to one million years in prison simply for existing. The story sets up a dystopian world where overpopulation makes being born a crime, and the only way to reduce your sentence is by completing missions. These involve hunting down targets, fighting other prisoner squads, or battling massive monsters.
Gameplay is addictive, clearly inspired by Monster Hunter. Players can wield firearms such as pistols and rifles, as well as melee weapons like swords. One of the game’s standout mechanics is a grappling device that lets you latch onto enemies or surfaces to exploit weak points. All of this is wrapped in a futuristic setting that enhances the immersion.
Unfortunately, this remaster carries over several flaws from the original. After each mission, your character is forced back into their prison cell, unable to leave until completing several more hours of missions making progress feel repetitive. On top of that, you’re greeted by a robot delivering long and monotonous dialogue, which disrupts the pacing. Interacting with the world feels so tedious at times that it discourages further play.
Another drawback is the visuals, which weren’t fully improved. At times the image appears stretched or distorted, making the already outdated graphics harder to enjoy.
In the end, Freedom Wars Remastered is a solid game that improves on many aspects but still suffers from the same technical and design shortcomings of its era. For those seeking the most faithful experience to the original, the Nintendo Switch version might be the best option, offering performance and resolution close to the Vita while preserving its authentic feel.
Final Score: 3/5
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