Phantom Dust Dev On Why It Won’t Run At 60fps, Clarifies Use of Original Assets, Microtransactions

Microsoft’s Adam Isgreen talks about the upcoming remaster.

[Nitrowolf2]

Wait what?

I mean I understand the reasoning with the whole, the game wasn't originally built with 60FPS In mind, but the original didn't have Microtransaction either did it????

This seems like a really cruddy deal, so it uses original assets from 2004, no performance boost (or at least stable 30fps), and it has a way to nickle and dime people on-top of that. It looks cleaner for sure with the resolution bump and i'm sure it'll be fun to play.

How did this go from a full blown remake, to a HD Remaster PS2 to PS4 typish game with added Microtransactions. I may not own a Xbox console and all, so my opinion to some may be moot, but as a gamer this is just awful to see.

I hear nothing but good things about the original game and I'll have to give this a go when it launches on PC.

@Gameseveryday Below

Like I said, I understand that as we have seen this plenty of times in the past with other games. It just bothers me that this is just a HD Re-release and they have the balls to tack on Microtransaction with it. Someone correct me there, but even still if the original game had it that's still pretty bad to have them return IMO.

[gameseveryday]

Well, it must be really hard to achieve 60fps with this. Despite the game's age, sometimes games are coded in a way that they have really limited enhancement opportunities. Looks like this game was hard coded for 30fps and there was no way to double the frame rate.

[AspiringProGenji]

Why must it be hard to code an old game to be 60 fps? I may not know shit about this stuff, but many remaster of last gen run at 6p fps. Why should this old game as well?

[blitz0623]

I haven't seen a case as weird as this. I have however seen lazy ports like Arkham Knight. I believe this belongs on the lazy side

[4Sh0w]

Yeah, I'm going to have to say this game is disappointing, just sell it for $10-$15 bucks and get rid of the microtransactions crap.

Plus, I'm already disappointed to find out the actual REMAKE is cancelled, so this HD-Remaster is all we're getting for such a great classic, now its microtransactions too.....come on Microsoft you can do better than that.

[zivtheawesome]

but didn't they rebuilt the code from the ground up? couldn't they just alter some of it?

[peewee11016]

LOL KH 1,2 were hard coded to 30FPS but re-mastered to a full 60. I feel they were rushed.. After they cnaccled the remastered version of this game

[XanderZane]

It's not hard for them to code it, the problem is they don't have the source code file for the textures. Did anyone read the article. They would have been better off just rewritten the whole game from scratch in 4K 30fps.

Isgreen first noted that the original assets were used because the company didn’t access to the raw texture files. “We didn’t have source is the major reason, and also because for a 2004 game, it holds up well in comparison to other games from that time."

So what do I think about PD? Where is MechAssault 3, Rallisport Challenge 3, Crimson Skies 2, Lost Odyssey 2 and Links 2? Give us these 5 exclusives and I'll be happy.

[Mikefizzled]

It's obvious that no one in here knows much about game development. The fact they have this working WITHOUT the source code is a little bit of a miracle. It's such a bizarre project at the minute. As Adam had said, the have been reverse engineering the finished binaries from the released disc. It's disappointing they couldn't find the source code but people calling them lazy is an actual joke.

[TheCommentator]

Mike Fizzled, many people don't come into these articles to read them, they come in to troll MS.

[Christopher]

***It's obvious that no one in here knows much about game development. The fact they have this working WITHOUT the source code is a little bit of a miracle. It's such a bizarre project at the minute.**z

Yes. To be able to do what tons of modders do all the time. A miracle.

Or just a good job with limited resources in a rushed situation.

[dilbig5]

@Mikefizzled

They didn't have it for Kingdom hearts either but that turned out fine.

[DJ]

Ratchet and Clank (PS4) was hard coded to 30 FPS, and they weren't able to change that when the PS4 Pro was released. It happens.

[Mr Pumblechook]

This is an old-gen game that has been given a HD makeover, like PS2 games on PS4, and should be regarded as such.

I think the reason some Xbox gamers are so disappointed is because they had high expectations for this game which came from a full new version being announced by Phil Spencer at Microsoft's E3 conference. This created a level of hype but then the game was quietly cancelled and the remaster replaced it.

It be a nice treat foe old fans of the franchise, but for a game with a niche appeal I don't think Microsoft should have added Microtransactions because this only serves to antagonise the gamers who have supported the game.

[OC_MurphysLaw]

@Nitrowolf2 I think the real question is around what the price of the game will be. My suspicion is MS is going to release this as a free game come E3 or for June GwG. If that does indeed come true then having microtransactions feels far less of an awful move and you put it.

[darthv72]

like what they did with killer instinct? Making the game have a free to play side as well as a buy in for more content.

[343_Guilty_Spark]

It's $15 like Voodoo Vince

[AngelicIceDiamond]

Yeah its annoying when you have someone like me who put in WORK to get most of the powerful skills in the game back then (about 300 in total) back then only to see someone get a good deck of skills by spending money these days. Part of the fun was the dedication and battles to earn said skills for powerful arsenal smh.

[LordJamar]

like he said ppl dont have time in all the world to no life the game

[bluefox755]

Stuff like this makes MS seem very out of touch.

[lellkay]

The microtransactions in this are an absolute farce. Ridiculous.

[Kribwalker]

I know right, like why can't it be more like games like uncharted 4 or gran Turismo sport or MLB the show.....wait a minute, those ones all have microtransactions too

[343_Guilty_Spark]

The remake and this were two separate projects.

[ShadowKnight]

Unfortunately Xbox install base will not look at it in that way. Most will think it's a lazy port and microtransactions and that will look bad for Microsoft. Sorry to say that.

[jznrpg]

Its Microsoft being Microsoft

[AngelicIceDiamond]

"but the original didn't have Microtransaction either did it????" Nope just some DLC mainly.

[dedicatedtogamers]

The microtransactions are literally pay-to-win.

"Accelerated deckbuilding in multiplayer" according to the dev. If that's not good ol' Microsoft at work, I don't know what is.

[LordJamar]

thats not pay to win you ppl love throwing around that word

[Krysis]

While this is trashy, MS hasn't had pay to win micro transactions in any recent online game. at least not for ranked play that I can remember. If someone can name some I would be interested

[thisismyaccount]

Quote by Nitrowolf2
"...... and it has a way to nickle and dime people on-top of that."

In case you did not get the memo, this is what Phil wants to have as the future of video games. Release a $30 - 60 game and after some positive reviews (Forza Horizon 3) ... push out all the "car" dlcs. for $50 for some extra dough. :(

Thank god we still have Sony and Nintendo and their 1st party ...

[Kribwalker]

Are you kidding me? Sony has micro transactions in plenty of their games, including uncharted 4, GT Sport and MLB The Show to mention a few. And Nintendo does MTs with their amibos

[dilbig5]

Most of those are just cosmetic micro transactions, they don't really affect the game at all.

[S2Killinit]

That kind of sucks. I sense shady business practice.

[badz149]

60fps is hard to do because old game....no source code...bla bla bla...but just because our fans love us so much, let's put microtransactions in it. no source code needed for that! /s

I got lambasted to hell when I said all MS games going forward are going to be microtransactions heavy but look where we are now! what now MS apologists?

[ChickeyCantor]

gamelogic/physics can be tied to a certain stepping. But it's a bit iffy that I don't believe the dev.

However micro transactions can be implemented separately from everything else. After all they only enable/unlock certain items/goodies.

[YAO-BLING]

poor xbox owners.. when will they get a decent title to play again?

[rainslacker]

Moving to new frame rates can actually break the game depending on how a game is designed within the game loop. For quite a few games, the game loop is intrinsically linked to the frame rate itself, so changing it can quite literally mean remaking the entire game at a base level.

I assume this is the case here, because there is no reason why the graphics would cause concern at higher frame rates since they are kind of dated.

Some games which are locked at 30fps can interpolate the frame rate to achieve 60fps if the game loop is tied in like this, but that's only one scenario to consider. I don't know the details about this game, just thought I'd put in a bit of an explanation.

[DJ_Professor_K]

Some people live in a different reality and the obvious is not obvious this is completely bad and disrespectful to anybody with common sense Microsoft makeup is starting to run A bunch of crocodiles tears will fallow if this goes sour fans need to wake up

[Pancit_Canton]

-Lazy Port
-Microtransactions
-????
-Profit

MS fans are so desperate for games, they would literary eat **** if they have to.

[343_Guilty_Spark]

Lazy port when they had to 1) find the damn source code 2) rebuild it and alter certain code to modern equivalents.

Read the damn developer diary. They had to do quite a lot to get this game running properly across XBOX One and PC.

[Pancit_Canton]

How about the PS2 to PS4 re-mastered, could you explain why it looks so good on the PS4? Two different system, two different Architecture, two different source code and so fort.

[ShadowWolf712]

If this is the result, they should have left it dead.

Skip the level but still get the rewards, microtransactions, good lord...

[UCForce]

Here the thing, those old PS2 games didn't have have micro transactions. Phantom Dust is an old game and MS adding a freaking micro transaction in it. That's just ridiculous.

[jznrpg]

You will take whatever they give you? People say shit all the time , it doesn't make it true, look at Ubisoft story or POTUS.

[trooper_]

Why are you defending this? Yet in the same breath, you guys bashed PS4 remasters. Well at least Sony didn't pull crap like this.

[XanderZane]

Their main problem was that they didn't have all of the texture source code for the game. This is why they should have just made the whole game from scratch with the Scorpio in mind. I don't want a remaster of Conker next, I want a whole brand new game. Microsoft doesn't shouldn't be copying Nintendo right now with all their remasters for the Switch. We want brand new games to be shown off on the Scorpio, not old OG XBox games that still look like old XBox games on the XB1.

[Yohshida]

PS2 ports to PS4 are upreszzed with the same 4:3 ratio as the original.

[Kribwalker]

Pancit cannon
I have twisted metal on my PS4, even with the upresolution the 4x3 game doesn't look good. I also have parapa the rapper 2, and it's the same, it looks like a ps2 game in 4x3 with a res boost...

[TheTony316]

But why the Microtransactions? This is nothing more than a cash grab.

[nitus10]

The original XBox was a 32-bit 733 MHz, custom Intel Pentium III processor https://en.wikipedia.org/wi... so it was basically PC architecture.

I can understand developers saying that they needed to do "a lot" to get the game to run on the XB1. Of course adding in microtransactions would prove to be a pain since you would have to significantly modify the code to allow for that type of thing.

[andrewsquall]

@VideoGameLab Or whatever aspect ratio those games supported back in the day, like Jak and Daxter in Europe actually supporting full 60hz, 16:9 ratio and Progressive Scan too.............. and in 2001 too. That will be brought over in the PS2 to PS4 remaster like all the PS2 to PS4 remasters so far.
Its not instant fixed 4:3 like you are trying to falsely imply.

[Allsystemgamer]

Then MS hired the wrong dev team.

[Prubar]

The fact that a comment like that gets so many up votes proves how biased this site is :(

[Pancit_Canton]

What's wrong with my comment?

I'm just stating facts.

[Rude-ro]

Shows what the majority favor. That is not biased.

[trooper_]

Because he has a point?

[BlackTar187]

A system has 2x as many consoles sold and you call it bias? It's called majority not bias.

[The 10th Rider]

@Pancit_Canton,

"MS fans are so desperate for games, they would literary eat **** if they have to."

"I'm just stating facts."

I think that shows what's wrong with your comments and proves Prubar's point about how biased the site is. No, Microsoft fans would not literally eat ****, which makes that statement not a fact. Yet you get agrees when you say you just stated facts. That's what we call bias. I've never owned a Microsoft console in my life and have no interest in one, but even I can see the ridiculous bias.

[ArmrdChaos]

He could of just kept on walking, but most on this site can't help themselves. Just out of curiosity were you equally outraged and vocal when Sony charged people $60 for a demo....GT Prologue? Or you do just pick and choose who to be vocal about....just like most.....just stating facts.

[LordJamar]

so true

[andrewsquall]

@ArmrdChaos Lol the GT Prologue "demo" was free back in the day on the Japan PS Store. When it released it was 40 dollars and YOU KNOW IT. It had over 80 cars and 5 tracks, so it had the same cars as a Project Gotham Racing game on 360 and half the tracks of supposed "next gen" Forza 5 at Xbone launch.

Don't want to be shamed? Don't bring up ridiculous topics you know nothing about.

[trooper_]

It's really laughable at this point. They would have served the game justice if it was a remake from the ground up.

[XanderZane]

Screw remake. Should have been a brand new sequel from the ground up. Only good this is it's only $15. So if you've never owned it, it might be worth trying at least. The micro-transactions are just dumb. Not even needed especially since they changed some things in the game to make it easier to get all the skills.

[343_Guilty_Spark]

So remake it with a significantly larger budget, then risk the game not selling? It was a niche yet unique title on the Original Xbox.

[trooper_]

Really Spark?

So what makes you think this one will? This was a waste. I would think that fans cared about games and the quality?

[xX-oldboy-Xx]

@343 - YES! - take a risk, this is what people should want out of MS. The video that was posted yesterday was absolutely horrific, yes gameplay matters too. I would think for such a beloved 'niche' title that a fair amount of effort would have been put in.

But for their customers ongoing loyalty and support, they give you PTW microtransactions. A massive kick to the spuds.

[LordJamar]

they could not do that

[rainslacker]

@oldboy

It's not really a beloved nostalgic IP. How many times have you ever heard this game mentioned before the trailer for the sequel was shown?

Most of the popularity of this game came after people became aware of it. It wasn't something that was just idling quietly on the sidelines with droves of people hoping to see something from it later on.

Not that MS shouldn't have taken a risk, because I think they should have because that's how you get all those titles which end up actually being beloved, even if niche. But from my point of view, I feel you may be overstating just how much people care about this franchise.

It wasn't a bad game. It was unique and interesting. But it's certainly very niche. The $15 price tag is indicative of just how MS expects it to sell. If it was really popular, it'd easily go for $30+.

[Liqu1d]

Can you stop generalising MS fans? They aren't all happy about this or interested in the game. If you meant fanboys then say that.

[_-EDMIX-_]

Absolutely agreed what's so strange is PS2 to PlayStation 4 games never really get this type of attention yet to also have less features than those ports is quite sad.

I mean literally Sony would release a PlayStation 2 game on PlayStation 4 1080 P 60 frames with trophies and they would barely have any announcements other than a blog post and you're telling me Microsoft literally won't shut up about this and it's not even up to par with some Sony quiet Port releases?

Oh boy...

[gangsta_red]

Oh you mean how Gamingbolt is once again taking an interview/reddit conversation and turning into a story is MS "LITERALLY" not shutting up about the game?

"Absolutely agreed what's so strange is PS2 to PlayStation 4 games never really get this type of attention yet to also have less features than those ports is quite sad."

Well, when you have a gang of rabid Sony fanboys who will "LITERALLY"(ha) turn any thing about Xbox into a concerned meltdown then what do you expect edmix?

[_-EDMIX-_]

@gred-

Many PlayStation 2 games have released on PlayStation 4 and 1080p 60 frames with trophies.

Is this game in 1080P 60 fps? Is gamingbolt lying about that?

Because at the end of the day this surprise comes from Simply those specs not necessarily how any author for gaming site is trying to portray them.

Unless it's actually not true in that case I stand to be corrected.

Mind you it is Microsoft that continues to talk about this game and it is Microsoft that actually continues to Market this game very openly something you don't really see from this PlayStation 2 releases outside of a blog post.

I think you're just upset because they're making a bigger deal out of this than there needs to be and it ironically has lesser quality than even the PS2 games that randomly come out on PlayStation 4.

I mean that is unless it is 1080p 60 frames. In that case disregard.

[gangsta_red]

Actually, let me address this since you seem to be replying to all my comments with nonsense.

The first four paragraphs has nothing to do with anything so I'll skip those. Try staying on topic young sir.

"Mind you it is Microsoft that continues to talk about this game..."

Mind you, Microsoft has spent very little talking about this game except for a few tweets that barely qualifies as "Microsoft literally won't shut up" as you put it. You know this but chose to ignore this out of the pure ignorance you continue to display.

Again this is a Gamingbolt article that has once again taken a story from somewhere else and made it their own. But you seem to be under the impression that MS is promoting this non-stop.

"I think you're just upset because they're making a bigger deal out of this.."

Really? Interesting because you're the one crying on my shoulder saying that MS is making a big deal out of this game and how Sony neeeeever makes a big deal for their remakes.

[_-EDMIX-_]

@gred-you still haven't answered my question...

is this game 1080p 60 frames?

Also the only reason why you're seeing journalists making articles about Phantom Dust is because Microsoft has cancelled so many games that they don't even have that much to really talk about.

When Twisted Metal black was coming to Playstation 4 it wasn't as if every other day they were all these articles with content talking about that game it's simply because such a release is a small bleep on the PlayStation calendar.

Phantom Dust right now for Xbox Gamers is one of their biggest releases of the entire year it's why you guys won't shut up about it there's really nothing else coming to this platform

😂😂😂

[dkp23]

Not really. Have you seen the sales of ms exclusives? They arent really good.

[XXanderXX]

Don't care still day one buy and 1st party so need to fully support

[AspiringProGenji]

Lol

[akurtz]

lol indeed pro genji

[uptownsoul]

@XXanderXX - "Don't care still day one buy and 1st party so need to fully support"

No blinder fanboy statement has ever been made

[Godmars290]

Its been a lost cause since arguing over XBL Gold, hasn't it?

Edit:
I mean yes, while I give that to some the fanboy BS was about brand/team loyalty, it was always about consumer awareness for me.

And seeing comments like this just makes me realize its pointless to warn people who don't want to listen.

[ShadowWolf712]

Yes, support terrible ideas! Surely they won't start to think they can throw whatever at you and you'll buy it anyway!

[XXanderXX]

You buy what you like , fight for what you want or think is right for yourself and I will do the same .

[Rude-ro]

Not a first party..
A first party hack and recode, but the game came from a Japanese third party developer

[XXanderXX]

But IP owned by MS / Xbox so first party .

[ziggurcat]

@xxanderxx: no. f1st party = a game that is made by a studio owned by MS/Sony. if MS doesn't own this studio, it is not 1st party.

[dilbig5]

2nd Party is what you were looking for. Exclusive title from a 3rd party developer

[XXanderXX]

@At all that don't like my stance on everything Xbox Tough and deal with it .

[UCForce]

Don't be ridiculous with that cocky attitude. Otherwise, it will hit you back.

[XXanderXX]

@UCForce no attitude , just had enough of people think that cause one don't like something we should not like it .
To hell with that BS mentality , I work to buy all that I want , not going to not buy things cause lame I don't like it or am being abused BS . I say buy what u like and if you don't like don't buy .

[guyman]

You're just digging the hole deeper and deeper

[StormLegend]

This is sad

[XXanderXX]

Not sad , just don't side with people cause they don't like something .......its buy or don't plain and simple .

[lodossrage]

"Don't care still day one buy and 1st party so need to fully support "

Ok, this right here is TRUE corporate slavery. I just hope you're not a grown man saying this crap. See because with this type of mentality, they can sell you a bag of dog crap with their logo on it and you'd buy it just because the company you love gave it to you.

[XXanderXX]

Am good with my buying methods and ways and when they start selling those I will order a case .

[lodossrage]

Your " buying methods and ways" adds up to you basically purchasing a product out of loyalty to a company regardless of whether their product is good or bad.

I hope that you don't get offended if people call you a "sheep" because that's the mentality you're admitting to cultivating.

[TKCMuzzer]

Just when you wonder what kind of person supports crap practices, is blinded by the company they love and is the ideal target of the money making men............one of them pops out of the woodwork.
If you don't get a Christmas card from Microsoft you should be very disappointed.

No gamer on whatever console should promote such anti consumer practices.

[Ristul]

Yeah, that comment takes the cake... im speachless to be honest. I always try to get my friends to support great practices in the gaming industry (like CDPR and their anti-drm mentality) and then you have people like that. SMH.

[XXanderXX]

So cause a few have an itch we should all stop to help them scratch.

Don't need a card , an okay without one .

@Ristul Yelp had the whole and still want more ......

[Sono421]

Do you have any self respect?

[XXanderXX]

Have all the respect i need from friends & family .
Not going to stop buying what I like or want cause some people have issue about something. Solution solve it and leave those that have no issue enjoy their purchase.

[notachance]

a real MS supporter would criticise them if they're making questionable decision, just so you know

so no, you're doing that don't make you a supporter
a sheep more like.

[XXanderXX]

Don't need to critic anything , they know what they are doing.
As I know what I am doing and that is consuming product.

Simple solution buy if you want or don't buy .

[Sono421]

The problem is this comment says nothing about you liking the game but simply you looking to willingly still buy a cash grab just to support your preferred brand. This is what makes me question if you have any self respect/self worth.

[rocketpanda]

That's just sad!

[DashArrivals]

You poor soul LMAO

[Allsystemgamer]

That's pathetic. You're literally being served garbage, paying for it and eating it.

[darthv72]

Microtransactions... hmmm...... I know it is the trend for such things but seriously. IF, they were to remaster crimson skies and the stipulation was that it include microtransactions for all the different weapons you collect then NO THANK YOU. I will just stick to the original for now, unless it was made as a free to play.

[Godmars290]

Thought microtransactions were being limited to F2P. At least on consoles.

So the only question is will this be F2P.

[tyasia0]

What are you talking about? Pretty much every Microsoft game this gen has had micro-transactions. Halo, Gears, Forza all full priced retail games with micro-transactions.

Last gen Microsoft screwed gaming with DLC and paid online. But clearly that wasn't greedy enough for them this gen so they had to shove micro-transactions and paywalls in everything on top of DLC and paid online.

[Godmars290]

Meh. Haven't touched an Xbox since the original.

[morventhus]

oddly there wasn't any microtranactions mentioned in the interview the article is talking about... only mention of free dlc on launch. and maybe some potential dlc for new skills down the line.

[Automatic79]

This game is a fan service. Tired of hearing the same whiny fanboys who have no interest in Xbox games jump on Xbox articles and cry like little sheep. Go play your games, on your preferred platform, you toxic waste.

[Blastoise]

Yep, great fan service adding microtransactions to a 14 year old game

[4Sh0w]

Yeah, I was defending the game yesterday because I understand it's just a HD-Rerelease which is just a small nod to the fans, BUT now microtransactions too. wtf?....just slap a cheap price on it & put it on the store for download, why can't they just keep sh*t simple? pffft.

[SaveFerris]

For Microsoft, fan service doesn't come cheap.

[343_Guilty_Spark]

They aren't required purchases

[lellkay]

I agree it is fan service, and i was excited... but the microtransactions have no place. Doesn't it bother you how we have gone from full on remake, to port of a 2004 game WITH microtransactions? ridiculous.

[MasterCornholio]

Remember when Square trolled PlayStation fans with a port of FF7? That's what this feels like in my opinion but it's even worse since they cancelled the remake.

I hated this moment: https://i.ytimg.com/vi/LXOi...

[UCForce]

Oh really ? An old game get remastered and get micro transactions ? That's unacceptable. This is like Activision ruined Modern Warfare Remastered by adding range weapon in supply drop.

[MasterCornholio]

Wouldn't a remake be a better way to treat fans? I mean Insomniac did it with Ratchet and Clank so I don't see why the same can't be done with Phantom Dust.

[gangsta_red]

A remake would be better for everyone. But lets not forget that Phantom Dust wasn't successful and it's an old game on the original OG Xbox that hardly any new gamers know about or even care.

Unlike Ratchet and Clank who are still very recent, had a ton of promotion behind it and even a movie...regardless if it failed.

[343_Guilty_Spark]

Ratchet and Clank were infinitely more popular and well known than Phantom Dust which was a niche title on Xbox. There was little risk remaking Ratchet from the ground up. It was nearly guaranteed to sell well.

You argument is comparing apples to oranges.

[MasterCornholio]

@Above

If all that was true than why did Microsoft announce a remake?

I mean if the game was never popular and there was a huge risk in doing a remake then it doesn't make any sense to even announce one and then shortly cancel it.

https://gamerant.com/why-ca...

Seems like a dumb decision to me and a waste of resources. Not to mention it breaks the heart of fans of the game.

[TKCMuzzer]

@gagsta_red
What? So what your saying is they have no interest in trying to attract new gamers to play the game in any shape or form?
Ratchet and Clank are kept recent by insomniac, they freshen it up to appeal to old an new gamers. Some might even say its good business.

[gangsta_red]

@Mastercorn

I definitely agree. I do believe that maybe MS did have intentions about a remake of PD but then maybe had reservations later on for whatever reasons and instead of cancelling it (which they did) they decided to go with a re-release of the original.

@TKCMuzzer
"So what your saying is they have no interest in trying to attract new gamers to play the game in any shape or form?"

Not saying that at all but the reality is the fans of this game as Master stated in his original post weren't many and the game became more of a cult hit...a niche title.

I would have rather MS remake the game of course, but comparing Ratchet and Clank which has had more game sequels and a movie to Phantom Dust isn't really a fair comparison.

[_-EDMIX-_]

Laziness on Microsoft's part

They've literally been the most lazy we've ever seen them in any other generation.

@Gred- when you cancel the Remake to a game it's very clear that less people know about it, so let's actually put the blame where it's due.

I mean when this remake was first announced I don't remember you holding some picket sign saying for it to not release and for it to be cancelled because no one cares about it as if that's somehow going to benefit you 😂😂😂

Already on that damage control?

[gangsta_red]

Edmix...so do you even know how to read English? I mean if English isn't your first language then I will definitely understand why you appear to be extremely slow and go off into these strange tangents.

I agreed with MasterCorn, I have "LITERALLY" said that a remake of this game would have been better for everyone. Like seriously, I stated this twice already in this conversation with grown folks.

"...and for it to be cancelled because no one cares about it as if that's somehow going to benefit you (emoji city)"

Seriously...wtf are you talking about?

"Already on that damage control?"

Damage controlling what? Do you even know what you're talking about anymore?

[trooper_]

A fan service with micro transactions?
Have fun.

[UCForce]

Same with you. You also have toxic waste in it. Why defend this practice ?

[Liqu1d]

This is what you guys said in defense of the Xbox DRM. You guys are a lost cause.

[TKCMuzzer]

Lol, how is this fan service? In fact it's the complete opposite, its actually sticking a middle finger up to fans of the original. A little tip, don't slag other people off unless your own comment makes sense and has proper grounds to build from. You come across very poorly.

[rocketpanda]

So you are ok with a lazy HD rehash with microtransactions being the most noticeable feature?

I don't have to be a fanboy of any system to know how terrible it sounds. If this is the game they want to release in such a state then expect it to bomb, because most gamers aren't so deluded.

[j15reed]

They are the reason we can't have nice things, because it's hard to tell who really gives a sh%t about the platform and who's just trolling. MS all day this ain't my type of game, but I applaud them for still doing there thing even though people don't want to put games on the system. People say Xbox is no competition to PS than why no cross-play, why the exclusivity deals on the most popular games to hold content, they sure are trying to do alot to make sure MS doesn't get any momentum.

I will cop the beast day one!!!

[DashArrivals]

You silly fool hahaha

[Allsystemgamer]

Why are you calling them toxic waste? You want to buy a 14 year old game that got nothing but a resolution bump, no framerate increase and added micro transactions for $15.

That's how you open the door to more crap.

This is also what you call a scam.

[TheOttomatic91]

so does that mean the SP will be free?

[ShadowWolf712]

“Also, you can now skip campaign missions after 3 retry attempts, and we still give you all the skill / credit rewards. And you can still trade skills and credits online.”

What. The Hell. Is the POINT then?

[Ron_Danger]

What's next?? A racing game that lets you rewind the race in case you screw up a turn??

[ShadowWolf712]

Nah son. You still gotta finish that race. This is dying three times but being able to skip the level and reap the rewards anyways.

[4Sh0w]

Yeah, I never understand people crying about a "cheat" they dont ever have to use= rewind helps those not good at racing games, then you can play without assists, and playing online competitively you can't rewind= rewind feature in racing games is a great, great tutorial.

[Liqu1d]

@4Sh0w Rewind is absolutely not a great tutorial.

[TheCommentator]

Don't use it if you don't want to. Only a moron doesn't understand the difference between something that's mandatory and something that's a choice. Apparently, there's a lot of morons in this thread.

Microtransactions are your choice.
Skipping levels is your choice.
Rewinding in Forza is your choice.
Being a moron is your choice... well... maybe.

[SegaGamer]

@Ron_Danger
"What's next?? A racing game that lets you rewind the race in case you screw up a turn??"

It's already here, i think it's been in every Forza game since Forza Motorsport 3 XD .
Crazy right ? I mean, i know games are a bit easier these days but this is taking it a bit far.

[4Sh0w]

It absolutely is, in computers a tutorial is a tool or software that helps a user become familiar with specific program functionality through a basic or user friendly walkthrough.

My daughter uses rewind , it helps relieve a lot of frustration until she gets the hang of a track/car, then she plays it without assist and she has absolutely gotten better, instead of giving up because it's too hard to finish a race without falling waaay behind. Many, many others do the same.

[Allsystemgamer]

Doesn't forza do that?

[DashArrivals]

Sweet. So even my retarded cousin can finish the game. He also eats glue and is very happy with this decision from the Devs.

[Derceto]

“Also, you can now skip campaign missions after 3 retry attempts, and we still give you all the skill / credit rewards. And you can still trade skills and credits online.”

ROFL Why not just let me put in the disc, and load up the words "YOU'RE WINNER !" and call it a day?

[MasterCornholio]

You mean like this?

http://i0.kym-cdn.com/entri...

[Derceto]

Exactly like that.

[TheUndertaker85]

"Isgreen first noted that the original assets were used because the company didn’t access to the raw texture files. “We didn’t have source is the major reason, and also because for a 2004 game, it holds up well in comparison to other games from that time. That’s subjective of course, but we’re trying to capture and preserve what PD was, not re-create it. It was funky, certainly, and that’s part of its DNA.”"

"He also explained why it won’t run at 60fps. “The entire engine was built around the game running at 30 FPS. Everything in the code and data is either frames @ 30, assumes 30, or hard-coded to expect 30 FPS. The frame rate averages 30 FPS now on a wide range of systems. The worst dips we’ve seen are to 26/27 in certain moments. This is massively improved from the original (for those that played it) which would drop into the teens constantly on destruction events.”"

"Finally, regarding the micro-transactions and whether they would affect the progress systems, Isgreen noted, “You can still unlock everything normally, and the MP shop now always acts as if you’ve finished the campaign, so there’s a chance for any skill to be available (including ultra-rares) every time you visit the MP shop."

For those too lazy to click a link or actually evaluate the whole story.

[UCForce]

I did read it. But it's an old game and they shouldn't have put those thing in it. Here another one : “Also, you can now skip campaign missions after 3 retry attempts, and we still give you all the skill / credit rewards. And you can still trade skills and credits online.” That's just make the game too casual and disrespectful. I know you ignored that one.

[TheUndertaker85]

Not even but your one avoids the mass statements.

So you can CHOOSE to skip levels. Think there won't be some repercussion to skipping? Much like the micro transactions. You can choose to buy into them or choose not to. According to the statements made however it is also very possible to earn it all the harder way.

Please do explain why "casuals" shouldn't be able to enjoy this game the way they want if they please. Particularly when it takes nothing away for "non-casuals". Unless you're stating because those options exist you'd use them.

What's even better is those trying to call out MS for micro transactions when they're available everywhere. Literally.

Breath of the Wild "Season Pass"
https://www.polygon.com/201...

Uncharted 4 micro transactions
http://www.dualshockers.com...
Uncharted 3 also had loads of micro transactions.

Gran Turismo Sport is said to have them while 5 & 6 also did.
https://www.gamefaqs.com/bo...

God of War Ascension had them,

[TheUndertaker85]

Fire Emblem Heroes has them
http://www.nintendolife.com...

Homefront: The Revolution has micro transactions.
http://www.pcgamer.com/home...

Hustle Kings does also. For Honor too. Grand Theft Auto V heavily does. Products like PlayStation Home revolved around them until it was closed even without leaving its beta form and no refunds/restitution of any sort was offered for those now useless items. LittleBigPlanet has loads including a timesaver pack that does exactly what the micro transactions here do. FIFA, Madden, Battlefield, Battlefront, and many others also do.

[Nitrowolf2]

@Theundertaker

All those games launched originally with them though.

They are taking a game that released on the original xbox, now enhanced with just better resolution and tacking on transactions because they can? On top of that, its clear thats a pay to win model while those other games youve listed are typically cosmetics (but not limited)

Those other games like ive said are all brand new when they launched with them. People complained about them at launch and still do for those games. They didnt get a pass.

Whats gross about this is that this game is just a port of the original, a game out for the original xbox and they expect some people to actually spend more on shortcuts. People are calling it a lazy port because its just better resolution. So they are expecting to reap money and not reinvest to make a new one of a more up to date version

[ludicrous]

Because u don't understand the issue with the original game. The MP portion is tied in with your SP. However, it does take a long time in SP to get you to where u can start creating your own arsenal of skills. If you did not reach that point, you are stuck with random arsenal and have no control over what you can bring into battle. The bread and butter of PD MP is creating your arsenal.

That is why they try to give u the option to allow u to be able to create your own arsenal early. That was the complaint that PD has back then. What they trying to do is to fix that. It is entirely optional, so if you want to do it slowly, u can. Nothing stop you.

There are reasons why they are doing this. Most people who didn't give enough time to get to where they can create their own arsenal give up on the game. Now think about today generation where instant gratification takes priority, doing it the old way would be DOA for PD and that is not what MS or any PD fans wants because this game has so much potentials that gamers haven't been able to understand or fully explore yet.

Without the ability to create your own arsernal, this game just lost it entire purpose of what it was made for. So do you think it is wise to keep it the old way (people already complain about it back then) especially with how gamers are today?

Something tells me you guys don't know anything about this game, and just in here to troll. Great job proclaiming being a gamer and all.

[dilbig5]

@TheUndertaker

Season Passes give guaranteed permanent content at a cheaper price bundled together.

Most of Uncharted'S micro transactions are cosmetic. At least, at first it was; don't know if it is now.

Don't most racing games have them?

God of War Ascension had cosmetics and weapons as add ons, not the typical micro transaction as you don't buy in game currency to hope you get that weapon; you just get it, not really different from other DLC.

Hustle Kings is a free to play so that's a given.

Fire Emblem, Homefront, For Honor, and GTA have them in the normal sense that resembles a free to play. Almost all of PlayStation Home'S micro transactions were built around cosmetic items and it was free to play.
As before, almost all of LBP's were cosmetic too.

[UCForce]

You have option of it. But those are just way too much for this old game. And it is wrong. I'm simple gamer who only following by heart, not by logic. Sure, logical can help people to see fact, but often time it doesn't work that well in the end. Sometimes, you have to believe what is right.

[DJ_Professor_K]

All this bs....... they just don't have the heart to cancel this is one big joke

[Pancit_Canton]

That's probably why M$ cancelled Scalebound. They didn't see any opportunity for Microtransactions on that game, unlike this game, Sea of Thieves, Forza, Halo and Gears. Cuphead might be on the chopping block as well for lacking microtransaction opportunity.

[tyasia0]

"That's probably why M$ cancelled Scalebound."

Or Platinum and Kamiya said fuck all that micro-transaction noise and just stopped working for them.

[_-EDMIX-_]

Lol

That's the Microsoft way!

😂😂😂

[DJ_Professor_K]

MS is still up to their old tricks don't learn

[XiNatsuDragnel]

What a joke adding Micro transactions, laziness, and no major improvements unfreaking acceptable I hope that Scorpio sales will reflect on a dumb decisions you guys made.

[EnigmaSG1]

I guess we can now start the pun...

Microsoftactions.

These must be the 'tools' Spencer was talking about to 'help developers'.

[trooper_]

You're setting yourself up for another beating Microsoft.

[fungusar]

The xbox one is begining to look like a Wii U situation

[tyasia0]

WiiU actually has a lot of good games. And none of them are laden with micro-transactions.

You insult WiiU when you compare it to Microsoft.

[rainslacker]

WiiU hid it's microtransactions behind the Amiibo product line.

[guyman]

That's true, there isnt a game on the xbox one that can touch bayonetta 2

[gamer7804]

they have no real access to the code, all they can do is do shader stuff and change stats which they have put on the cloud. This is basically an up-res game with slightly better shaders.

[Pancit_Canton]

That's BS. Why not just remake the game from the ground up, if they don't have the proper source code to make improvements on the game, instead of re-mastering it?. There's hundreds of games on the Original Xbox, yet they pick this one?

[gamer7804]

they have the code, just not in a state where it can be changed without tremendous overhaul. If the game takes off, they might spend more resources to see what they can do with the code. This is at least what they said.

[Allsystemgamer]

In other words. LAZY.

[gangsta_red]

Microtransactions makes little sense for a game like this. Especially with the bare minimum of efforts put in.

I could understand if the game was offered for free, then having the option of microtransactions would make sense.

I'm expecting this game to be 10 or 15 bux anyways so if I do get it that will be the only money I spend on this game.

[UCForce]

Ok, what about Modern Warfare Remastered ? Would you defend that practice as well ?

Edit : And No, Micro transaction shouldn't belong here especially the old game.

[gangsta_red]

Not really following you, where am I defending microtransactions?

As for MW Remastered, was it offered for free? If so then sure, microtransactions I could understand being present as a dev would want to recoup some money for the work they put in.

A game can have as many microtransactions as they want, for me personally I never spend a great deal of money if any on them.

[_-EDMIX-_]

"where am I defending microtransactions?"

Then

"A game can have as many microtransactions as they want"

[gangsta_red]

Lol, Edmix as desperate and useless as ever...try quoting the whole thing.

"A game can have as many microtransactions as they want, for me personally I never spend (spent) a great deal of money if any on them."

You see edmix, this means that a game can have them, but for me, I have spent very little to almost none on microtransactions.

I see you're getting emotional, *insert emoji*, it's so cute to see you follow me around after getting called out.

[_-EDMIX-_]

@gred-you're still supporting the existence of Microtransactions though.

Smh.

Sounds like you desperately support anything Microsoft does.

I mean you're literally not saying a game shouldn't have them, you're literally saying

"this means that a game can have them"

So you just love having tons of content withheld from games so long as Microsoft is doing it?

[Allsystemgamer]

😂
You're going to spend money on a game that releasing at 5x what it's worth.

I just found a copy at the game shop across my street. 2.99.

Why you waste money?

The game isn't even getting a treatment. What's wrong with you people?

[omarja1405]

The beast cometh.

[dedicatedtogamers]

Why people still play games on the Xbox platform other than the excuses of "my friends play there" and "Halo, Gears, Forza" is absolutely beyond me when the company in charge can't even pull off a competent "remaster". Adding insult to injury, they add in microtransactions for content. Now, this paid DLC isn't costumes or skins or other optional cosmetic items. The paid DLC is to get the better items and skills FASTER. It is literally "pay to win" in a paid game. Wow. The developer's own quote in the article is: "Yes, to accelerate multiplayer deck building. It is completely optional." So... yeah.

[MorpheusX]

I don't care about this game.

Its dated. The gameplay is dated. This is a waste of resources on a very "Niche" Title, that nobody truly asked for.

A next gen sequel would have been different.

[XabiDaChosenOne]

No matter what "good will" Microsoft does for its fan base there is always a catch to it lmaooooooo I love it!!!

[lodossrage]

Yeah, they may tell you this is good will, but actions tell a different story here.

Many of the MS fanboys (not fans) will sit here and tell you "this game is fan service". The devs will sit there and tell you "it isn't about the money".

But the problem with both of those statements is that for either of them to be true, the game would have to have NO MICROTRANSACTIONS. See, it's not fan service or for the love of it if you're putting microtransactions into an old OG Xbox game that didn't have microtransactions when it originally game out.

[Aries83]

How are so many PlayStation supporters in here talking about fanboyism? You're all commenting on a game you won't and can't buy. Who cares how you feel about the re-release??? It's not like MS is losing your money. Phantom Dust will be very inexpensive, and depending on its success, MS may pick the reigns back up for the IP and make a true sequel.

Who cares what Sony fans think, buy the game if it interests you and support the potential for a sequel. I think it looks damn good now from the original Xbox.

[SegaGamer]

Well i play on both consoles and i agree with everything they say, this is just one big joke. To even add Microtransactions in a game like this is taking the p**s.

[CharliePeppers]

Agree!
Played the hell out of the original. I'm blown away that they would even revisit this game. If youve played it you'd know that getting into the meat of the game is pretty slow going. It makes sense to add accelerants. I for one don't want to play through the entire campaign before I get into multi. Itll probably be free anyway. And you dont have to spend a dime extra. I just don't get the hate..everyone must be done with Horizon.

[BLKxSEPTEMBER]

I really don't care what it looks like. I LOVED the original and I'm looking forward to playing this version. I spent hundreds of hours in the Original so I'm sure I'll do the same for this one as long as Thier are people to smash. Best strategy ever is to fill your deck with tons of white orbs and a few low level swords. They require very little energy to use and you will spawn tons of white orbs at the start of the match to power your swords while your opponent waits for more powerful weapons. While their waiting you can run over to their spawn and just rape them with your sword lol oh man good times and memories. So much hate mail lol

[VsAssassin]

Looking at the graphics, I am quite baffled why MS didn't just make this game part of their backwards compatibility program. Oh, but then again, PD was an original Xbox game and not 360. That said, this game is not doing anyone a favor. Compounding the measly Xbox One exclusives are some Phil Spencer comments that suggest single player experiences are dying and online-centric titles should be more focused on.

[Yohshida]

Why are people making such a big deal out of this game? Its basically a HD remaster of a OG Xbox game. You guys seem like this will be the next big thing they announced.

[Lime123]

http://www.digitalspy.com/g...

[Tko1111]

The hate is strong in this forum. May your brand be with you

[DashArrivals]

Keep going Microsoft, you're slaying the console race participants with your puzzling decisions. /s

[TheTony316]

Screw a proper remake! Let's add microtransactions, cause service based gaming!

[Scatpants]

If there's no new version I don't care about some ancient remaster. The game was fun for it's day but I have no need to play it again. I'm sure a lot of people haven't played it, but it wasn't all that amazing to begin with.