Keeping Evil Alive: The Remake*

*working title

With the imminent release of the Dead Space remake this month (I CANNOT WAIT), and many more on the way (including the genre defining Silent Hill 2 and Resident Evil 4), I wanted to propose a short article, which I wondered if you’d like to collaborate on?

Please see details below.

Article Overview

Intention/Key Message

  • How remakes help in keeping the horror genre relevant and impactful.

  • How remakes extend creativity, allowing video games to continue to flourish as an art-form.

Target Audience

  • Those highly anticipating the horror game remakes of 2023 onward.

  • Those interested in the evolution of the horror genre.

Article Outline

Introduction

The horror genre, although divisive, cannot be denied the mantle of pushing the envelope for video games (Silent Hill 2 portraying mature themes, Resident Evil defining a whole new genre of survival horror).

So what will remakes add to this legacy?

Main

The article would cover,

  • Technological advancements including, enhanced visuals and audio, no loading screens - Not only visual impact but adds to immersion, a key component in horror.

  • Accessibility - A drive in accessibility features means that a new generation of players can enjoy the genre.

  • Creativity - How creatives have more ‘tools’ at their disposal to craft unique experiences.

  • Story-telling - One-shot cameras, VO and writing to create truly cinematic experiences, rivaling other medium.

  • Learning from the past (and keeping fans happy) - Re-imagined but also, in some cases, expanded and enhanced (e.g. Issac Clarke speaking in the Dead Space remake, new areas to explore in Resident Evil 2 remake, new ‘Intensity Director’ in Dead Space remake).

Summary

  • Remakes are a conduit to engaging a new generation of players, whilst continuing to push the boundaries of the genre.

  • Hopefully, the creative impact of the genre will help to cement games as art in mainstream media.

  • A brief summary of the remakes announced and/or coming soon (Silent Hill 2, Resident Evil 4, Alone in the Dark, Alan Wake 2).