A PC code was provided to GamingPizza for this review by Disney Games. Disney Gargoyles Remastered is available now for PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Memories unlocked.
There’s something about the recent Disney Games remasters that taps immediately into childhood nostalgia, reminding us of simpler and more carefree times (well, as carefree as that level in The Lion King allowed us to be while still maintaining our sanity. You know which level I’m talking about.). With the release of Disney Gargoyles Remastered — coming hot off the heels of the news of the live-action remake — fans of the beloved ’90s animated series are in for yet another treat.
Disney Gargoyles Remastered is a delightful blast from the past, whisking players back to the ’90s with its revival of the 16-bit side-scrolling platform adventure. For fans of the original Sega Genesis game from 1995 and the animated series, this remaster is a heartwarming journey down memory lane. The nostalgia this game brings is nothing short of astounding, making it a must-play for those seeking to relive the epic adventures of Goliath and the Gargoyles while introducing a new generation to this classic gem.
One of the standout features of Disney Gargoyles Remastered is, obviously, its visual and audio overhaul. The graphics have been artfully remastered, breathing new life into the world of the Gargoyles. The level of detail is truly impressive, and the animations are a visual treat, capturing the essence of the animated series.
As Goliath, the formidable leader of the Gargoyles, you harness your mighty strength to crush enemies, effortlessly scale towering structures with razor-sharp claws, and gracefully glide through the air while dodging incoming projectiles. The action is non-stop, and it maintains exactly what we all experienced from these action-platforming games in the ’90s.
A walk down memory lane
The nostalgia factor in Disney Gargoyles Remastered is its pièce de résistance. For those who grew up with the animated series and the original game, this remaster is like stepping into a time machine. The remastered visuals and audio capture the essence of the ’90s and the Gargoyles universe. The familiar characters, locations, and storylines evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia that is hard to replicate, showcasing the timeless appeal of the Gargoyles franchise.
Of course, while Disney Gargoyles Remastered excels in many areas, it’s important to address a significant aspect that may leave some players frustrated — the control scheme. In this remaster, the control scheme remains unapologetically faithful to the 1995 version. While this maintains the authenticity of the game, it also means that the same challenges and quirks from the original persist.
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Enemy hitboxes, in particular, can be a source of frustration. They are as precise and finicky as they were in the original game — another memory that I had long repressed until venturing back into this world. It takes time to adapt to these controls, and there are moments of accidental deaths and hair-pulling frustration. While this aspect keeps the nostalgia fully intact, it might deter newcomers or players accustomed to modern control conventions.
Personally, I chalk it up as a source of pride that I was actually able to make it through these wildly challenging games as a kid. Also, I walked to school barefoot in the snow, uphill both ways …
Playing with time
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Disney Gargoyles Remastered is the ability to switch between remastered and classic 16-bit modes. The remastered soundtrack, coupled with the visuals, is a nostalgic symphony, optimized to immerse players in the Gargoyles’ world. It seamlessly weaves the familiar chiptunes of the original game into the fabric of the remaster, enhancing the overall adventure.
In some cases, the remastered mode offers a visual advantage, allowing players to navigate certain levels with greater ease. The enhanced graphics can make it simpler to spot hidden paths or identify obstacles, which can be especially helpful in challenging segments of the game.
Conversely, the classic 16-bit mode may come in handy during combat scenarios, especially when facing particular enemies or bosses. The simplicity of the classic mode can make it easier to focus on more precise movements and timing, which can be a boon in tough battles.
Rekindling the ’90s Magic
via Disney
Disney Gargoyles Remastered is a lovingly crafted homage to a bygone era of gaming and animation. It resurrects the beloved ’90s classic and offers fans a chance to relive the adventures of Goliath and the Gargoyles with a fresh coat of paint. The nostalgia factor is through the roof, making it a heartwarming experience for those who hold fond memories of the original.
The visual and audio enhancements, while commendable, are primarily aimed at invoking nostalgia rather than pushing the boundaries of modern gaming. The gameplay, although entertaining, carries the quirks of the original control scheme, which can be both a blessing and a curse.
In the end, Disney Gargoyles Remastered is a must-play for fans of the Gargoyles franchise and anyone seeking a trip back in time to the ’90s. It’s a delightful journey that balances old and new, delivering a solid gaming experience with a touch of nostalgia. So, spread your wings, embrace the night, and join Goliath in his quest to save the world from the Eye of Odin once more.
GamingPizza Rating: 7 out of 10
