Freedom Wars Remastered: A Dystopian Return

Freedom Wars Remastered, the enhanced reimagining of the 2014 PlayStation Vita action RPG, arrived on January 10, 2025, for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

A Dystopian Struggle for Freedom

Set in a dystopian future, players assume the role of “Sinners,” sentenced to a million years of imprisonment. To reduce their sentence, players embark on perilous missions to rescue civilians from massive bioweapons known as Abductors. The game features fast-paced, three-dimensional combat utilizing melee weapons, firearms, and the iconic “Thorn” grappling hook, adding verticality and strategic depth to battles.

Enhanced for Modern Platforms

The Remastered edition boasts significant improvements over the original. Enhanced visuals, including 4K resolution support and high-resolution textures, deliver a more immersive experience. While the Nintendo Switch version maintains a 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second, the game maintains a smooth 60 frames per second on most other platforms.

Quality-of-life enhancements, such as auto-save, quick travel, and faster movement, streamline gameplay. Additionally, all previously released downloadable content is included, along with a challenging new “Deadly Sinner” difficulty mode.

Critical Reception

While the remaster has been met with generally positive reviews, critics have noted that some of the original game’s shortcomings, such as repetitive enemy encounters and a somewhat underdeveloped narrative, persist. The game’s demanding learning curve and dated tutorials may also pose a challenge for new players.

A Noteworthy Return

Despite these minor criticisms, Freedom Wars Remastered successfully revitalizes a cult classic. Its engaging combat system, expanded content, and improved presentation make it a compelling experience for both returning fans and newcomers to the series.