Relive the fantasy RPG classic in HD
Gothic 1 Remake is a paid fantasy role-playing game (RPG) that faithfully recreates the classic hit from 2001. In this experience remake from THQ Nordic, players are once again taken on an epic quest set in the Kingdom of Myrtana. You are the nameless hero, tasked with surviving inside a mining colony–completing quests, slaying Orcs, and collecting powerful artifacts.
Gothic 1 Remake follows an emerging trend of recreating classic video games, giving them updated graphics or reworked gameplay mechanics. Similar RPGs include Final Fantasy VIII HR Remake or the Oblivion Remastered Mod for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion.
Return to a grittier Myrtana
One of the factors that made the original game a cult classic was its expansive lore—something that Gothic 1 Remake chose to retain. In this game, you are introduced to a mining colony where prisoners are kept. The mine is enclosed by a magical barrier and the prisoners inside have divided themselves into different factions. You get to choose which of them to join and the story progresses slightly differently accordingly.
Additionally, this remake was built using Unreal Engine, which means that it has that crisp, clear graphics and the smooth animation that comes with it. This transforms the polygonal designs of the original game into a more realistic visual experience. Even the character designs and the gameplay systems have been updated to capture an immersive feel without losing the familiarity original players have.
The only challenge in this game is its control system, which is undoubtedly different from most games in its genre. As the remake adopts the same controls, it might take some time for new players to get used to it. Additionally, its survival mechanics might be new to fantasy RPG fans, as it includes systems similar to Green Hell or The Forest to a lesser degree.
Building anticipation
Now, if you're a newcomer or a long-time fan returning to see what the remake will bring to the table, you will have to wait a while longer since Gothic 1 Remake is not yet available, and there's no exact release date either. However, the devs have been hard at work in providing timely news and updates about its developments, letting you peek into what went into the process of remaking such a beloved classic franchise.
First and foremost, this is a remake of the first game and not a direct sequel. It stays faithful to the original, starting with the updated visuals for its character and monster models based on modern graphics standards. This extends to its open world that is just as vast and freely explorable but with the added element of the aforementioned survival mechanics to keep things challenging.
Speaking of freedom, you can choose from one of three distinct factions to align yourself with during your adventure. Depending on who you side with, the story will unravel, and branching paths will be available to you at certain points of your journey. Wishlist it now while waiting, or you can pre-order Gothic 1 Remake directly from the game's official website to receive special collectibles and in-game bonuses and rewards.
A welcome remake
Through its faithful commitment to the contents of the original game, plus welcome updates on graphics and game mechanics, Gothic 1 Remake is a great return of the beloved cult classic RPG. It brings its rich storyline and expansive world to a new generation of players. Thanks to its reimagining with the latest technology, you can now enjoy its rich plains and dark mine halls in great quality. Highly recommended.