The Last Remnant Remastered - NYCC 2018 Hands-On Preview

Recently, Square Enix removed The Last Remnant from digital stores and confirmed The Last Remnant Remastered.  Now the cult classic is coming to PS4 and PC with updated graphics, giving those who missed out on the original a chance to play one of Square Enix's lesser-known RPGs. We had the chance to play The Last Remnant Remastered at NYCC 2018, here's what we thought.

The core systems, including the elaborate turn-based system, and layered characters have returned. What is noticeable from the beginning is the graphical updates. Everything has been improved on to give the game a much more modern look. There's still some aging, similar to when Square Enix modernized Final Fantasy XII, but these are expected.

What we played during NYCC 2018 is impressive and shows that the developers at Square Enix have taken a lot of time to modernize the graphics for PS4 gamers. The improved loading times and transitions between battle and exploration will be noticeable for those who played the original game. Voice-acting remains the same high-quality with characters such as protagonist Rush Sykes still naive yet enthusiastic 

What is a bit problematic is how the game handles navigation. Players are not given direction of where to go all the time. For example, after completing the first level I was told to head to the castle. Unfortunately, the castle option only opened after we went through all the districts first then exited the final area.

The Last Remnant Remastered's combat system is much different from other systems. It still uses the turn-based combat but relies more heavily on flanking enemies and raising the morale of your troops. Because of this combat can take longer for basic enemies than other RPG. It can also create a domino effect where boss enemies can turn the tide of battle in an instant due to poor preparation. 

From what we experienced during the preview provided The Last Remnant Remastered gives the same experience the original game had. The updated visuals and shorter loading times are welcomed additions for those who enjoyed the original title. It would benefit to provide a better navigation system and weaker cannon fodder so battles don't last longer than they need to. 

The Last Remnant Remastered is set to release on PC and PS4 this December 6th.

Adam Siddiqui, NoobFeed
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