What's Happening?
Atari CEO Wade Rosen has expressed a personal interest in remastering three classic video games: Panzer Dragoon Saga, Ogre Battle, and Snatcher. In an interview with VGC, Rosen shared his enthusiasm for these titles, acknowledging that while his personal preferences might not always align with business priorities, he would still like to see these games brought back to life. Panzer Dragoon Saga, originally developed by Team Andromeda and published by Sega, is a 1998 release where players control a character named Edge. Ogre Battle, a series owned by Square Enix, began with its first game in 1993. Snatcher, a game designed by Hideo Kojima, was released by Konami in 1988. Rosen's comments come as Atari continues to expand its portfolio, having recently acquired five franchises from Ubisoft for re-release on modern platforms.
Why It's Important?
The potential remastering of these classic games could have significant implications for the gaming industry, particularly in terms of nostalgia-driven sales and the preservation of gaming history. Remastering these titles could attract both older gamers who have fond memories of the originals and new players interested in experiencing these classics for the first time. This move could also strengthen Atari's position in the market by diversifying its offerings and tapping into the growing trend of remastering and re-releasing older games. Additionally, it highlights the ongoing interest in retro gaming and the value of intellectual property in the gaming industry.
What's Next?
While Rosen's interest in these remasters is clear, the actual development and release of these games would depend on various factors, including licensing agreements and market demand. Atari's recent acquisition of Ubisoft franchises suggests a strategic focus on expanding its catalog, which could potentially include these remasters if deemed viable. The gaming community and industry stakeholders will likely watch closely for any official announcements or developments regarding these potential projects.
