In a recent GameSpot article, critic Heidi Kemps argues that modern remakes, including the Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D versions, lack ambition by sticking too closely to original stories. She calls for more transformative changes to enhance creativity while preserving core elements. Kemps highlights examples like Final Fantasy VII Remake as a positive model for innovation.
Critique of Recent Remakes
Heidi Kemps, a freelance writer for GameSpot, expresses frustration with the trend of faithful remakes in her November 24, 2025, opinion piece. She notes that while titles like Live A Live and Romancing SaGa 2 have successfully reached wider audiences, many remakes fail to innovate beyond updated visuals and minor gameplay tweaks. This approach, she argues, borders on remastering rather than true reimagining, leading to predictability in narratives and mechanics.
Focus on Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D
Kemps uses the recently released Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D Remake as a key example. The game retains the original's simple plot—a hero saving a princess and defeating the Dragonlord—but adds superficial elements like unnamed soldiers and a slightly expanded romantic subplot with Princess Gwaelin. These additions, she says, create untapped potential for deeper character development or new mechanics, such as temporary NPC companions, without altering the solo adventure format. She praises minor changes like new areas and boss fights but criticizes the adherence to original story beats, which results in hollow cutscenes and dialogue.
In contrast, Dragon Quest II HD-2D fares better with additions like a new playable character and expanded locations, though it remains somewhat restrained.
Broader Implications and Examples
Extending her critique, Kemps points to other remakes like Resident Evil 4, Super Mario RPG for Switch, Metal Gear Solid Delta, and Persona 3 Reload, which she views as solid but unadventurous. She suggests exploring alternate concepts from development history, such as early ideas for Resident Evil 4, to offer fresh experiences. Drawing from other media, she compares this to varied adaptations of stories like Superman or The Lord of the Rings, emphasizing that originals remain intact.
Kemps highlights Final Fantasy VII Remake and its sequel Rebirth for boldly twisting familiar plots, creating engaging debates among fans. Looking ahead, she expresses hope for upcoming projects like Danganronpa 2x2 with its alternate storyline, Yakuza Kiwami 3 featuring a new villain scenario, and Dragon Quest VII Reimagined to embrace more creative freedom. Ultimately, she believes remakes should balance fidelity with surprise to captivate players anew.