Fans have many expectations for the Dead Space remake, but EA Motive’s efforts have resulted in innovations that can hopefully remain faithful to the best elements of the first game. Chief among these changes is an updated level design that has been described as a seamless rendition of the ship with more branching paths. This non-linearity could resemble a similar classic title, Metroid Prime: another immersive sci-fi game that offered unnerving corridors and multi-layered progression.
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Dead Space Remake Should Embrace Player Freedom
One of the biggest draws to Dead Space is its focus on immersion; when players feel as if they exist in a virtual world, they are more likely to be invested in the action-horror experience. Much of this is accomplished through Dead Space’s diegetic HUD, enveloping Isaac Clarke with a holographic interface that contextualizes game systems in-universe. What may further elevate the project’s suspension of disbelief is player freedom, and by extension, risk/reward-based decisions.
In addition to Dead Space remake’s UI improvements, responsive interactions would fuel a greater sense of vulnerability. Recent previews have showcased the remake’s AI director and security levels, and these two features promise to make survival more dynamic than past Dead Space games. If EA Motive can successfully capture a startling rhythm of enemy encounters in these open spaces, it is possible that redesigned sections of the Ishimura would have more cinematic moments that the franchise is known for. On the other hand, backtracking after gaining a higher security clearance potentially guides Isaac Clarke into dangerous territory, and players might have to be more careful about their routing.
Metroid Prime’s World and Dead Space’s Ishimura
The updated chapters in this remake’s story seemingly function like exploration hubs, which should be a fitting modernization for older Dead Space players who want a more complex layout. Retro Studios’ Metroid Prime games were a revolutionary trilogy, and its branching areas were set apart by upgrades and unique encounters designed to keep players on their guard. If the remake of Dead Space can replicate this with its variety of challenges, then EA Motive’s version of the Ishimura could be an inspired evolution that feels special despite its commitments to authenticity.
Things still look promising for the Dead Space remake, as previews have shown that the original story is being respected. With an aesthetic that references its source material closely, hopefully the studio’s changes are compatible with the original game’s vision. Metroid Prime was a significant release prior to Dead Space, and perhaps other legacy titles in the genre may open up the franchise to inventive solutions. There could be many surprises in store, as even a developer on the Dead Space remake said they were scared to play the game in the dark, indicating that the project might strike a good balance between the old and new.
Dead Space launches January 27 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
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