Retro video games are taking center stage in 2025 with major remakes and remasters leading the charge. Classic titles that defined their time now return with sharper visuals, smoother gameplay, and modern console support. Each release stays true to its roots while reaching new audiences.
Fans will see legends revived, forgotten gems refreshed, and genre-defining games brought back to life. From tactical espionage to pixel art RPGs and 3D platformers, every title on this list delivers something meaningful.
Here are 8 retro video games making a comeback in 2025.
1. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater โ The Stealth Legend Returns
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater brings one of the most respected retro video games back with full force.
Konami rebuilt it using Unreal Engine 5, giving the PS2 classic a modern look while keeping its story and stealth gameplay intact.
Release Date and Platforms
| Title | Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater |
| Release Date | August 28, 2025 |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X |
| Engine | Unreal Engine 5 |
Key Features
- Fully remade visuals with next-gen detail
- Original voice cast and story preserved
- Two camera modes: legacy and modern view
- Improved controls and animation system
- Single-player only, no added content
Story Overview
Set in 1964, the story follows Naked Snake on a mission inside Soviet territory. He must stop a nuclear threat and confront his mentor, The Boss.
The narrative mixes Cold War conflict with personal loss and loyalty.
Letโs Compare the Graphics and Other Features
| Feature | 2004 Version | 2025 Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics | Basic PS2 textures | Realistic lighting and models |
| Controls | Analog movement, slow aiming | Smooth input, improved reactions |
| Camera | Fixed-angle only | Legacy + over-the-shoulder views |
| Audio | Stereo mix | 3D directional sound |
| Gameplay | Slow-paced stealth | Faster movement, same tension |
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater hits every key element a remake needs. It stays loyal to the original while using modern technology to refine the experience.
Fans who grew up with it will feel right at home, and new players will get a clean entry into one of gamingโs most celebrated stories.
2. Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake โ The RPG Roots Are Back
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake revives the earliest entries in one of Japanโs most influential retro video games series.
Square Enix brings back both NES-era classics with its signature HD-2D style, combining pixel charm with layered lighting and depth.
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Release Date and Platforms
| Title | Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake |
| Release Window | Late 2025 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X |
| Engine | Proprietary HD-2D Engine |
Key Features
- HD-2D visuals blending classic pixels with modern effects
- Original maps and story structure fully intact
- Rebalanced combat and new menu system
- Turn-based gameplay with smoother transitions
- No added chapters or side stories
Story Overview
Both games follow silent heroes on quests to defeat ancient evil, save kingdoms, and unite fragmented lands.
Simple at first glance, the stories laid the groundwork for every RPG that followed. The remake keeps their structure while improving visual storytelling.
Letโs Compare the Graphics and Other Features
| Feature | NES Originals | 2025 Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics | 8-bit pixel art | HD-2D: pixels plus dynamic lighting |
| Combat | Basic turn-based | Faster with clearer effects |
| Interface | Text-heavy menus | Streamlined modern UI |
| World Map | Block-style terrain | Layered 2D with depth and color |
| Soundtrack | MIDI-style music | Orchestrated audio |
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake offers more than a visual update. It opens the door to the roots of RPG gaming without forcing players to deal with outdated mechanics. Fans who respect gaming history will find a faithful recreation.
3. Suikoden I & II HD Remaster โ Cult RPG Classics
Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars brings two of the most beloved retro video games back with upgraded visuals and system polish.
Konami restored both PlayStation-era RPGs with care, keeping their 2D pixel art intact while refining menus, sprites, and animations.
Release Date and Platforms
| Title | Suikoden I & II HD Remaster |
| Release Date | Released on March 6, 2025 |
| Platforms | PS4, Switch, Xbox One, PC (Steam) |
| Graphics Engine | Custom sprite-based with updated UI overlays |
Key Features
- Clean HD remaster of original sprite art
- New environmental effects (lighting, shadows, weather)
- Modern UI and better resolution scaling
- Faster battles and skip functions
- Full Japanese and English audio
Story Overview
Each title follows a young hero who rises against empire and corruption. The focus sits on war, loyalty, betrayal, and leadership.
Players can recruit up to 108 characters across both games. Suikodenโs worldbuilding, political drama, and layered characters made it a fan favorite that still stands strong.
Letโs Compare the Graphics and Features With Old Game
| Feature | PS1 Originals | 2025 HD Remaster |
|---|---|---|
| Visuals | Pixel-based with flat backgrounds | Enhanced sprites with new effects |
| Interface | Basic, text-heavy menus | Clean, scalable UI with new options |
| Speed | Slow transitions and load times | Fast forward options and seamless travel |
| Battle System | Turn-based with minimal animation | Same structure with visual upgrades |
| Audio | Limited quality | High-res tracks and dual-language voice |
Suikoden I & II HD Remaster marks a rare moment where two cult classics finally get proper treatment. The updates make both games smoother without touching the soul of what made them special.
Every battle, dialogue moment, and character arc now fits perfectly on modern platforms.
4. Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter Remake
Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter Remake brings new life to one of the best retro video games in the JRPG genre.
Nihon Falcom rebuilds the first entry in the Trails series with upgraded visuals, improved pacing, and full voice acting. The 2025 version targets new players while keeping its original depth.
Release Window and Platforms
| Title | Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter Remake |
| Release Window | Fall 2025 |
| Platforms | PS5, Nintendo Switch, PC (Steam) |
| Engine | Falcom Custom Engine |
Key Features
- Reworked graphics with new environments and character models
- Fully voiced dialogue across all main scenes
- Updated menus and smoother navigation
- Balanced battles with added visual effects
- Faster load times and improved save system
Story Overview
The game follows Estelle and Joshua, two young adventurers uncovering political secrets across the Liberl Kingdom.
What begins as simple guild work evolves into a sweeping narrative with twists, conspiracies, and emotional depth.
Comparison of Graphics and Other Features
| Feature | 2004 Original (PC/PSP) | 2025 Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Visuals | 2D sprites on flat maps | 3D environments with camera control |
| Voice Acting | Text-only | Full voice acting |
| Battle System | Turn-based with grid movement | Same system, now with animations |
| UI | Dated menus | Redesigned for speed and clarity |
| Music | MIDI audio | Orchestrated soundtrack |
Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter Remake opens the door to one of the most detailed RPG timelines ever made.
The updated version removes visual and pacing barriers, making it easy for new players to dive in. The story still holds weight, and the emotional build-up stays untouched.
5. Double Dragon Revive โ Street Brawling Returns With a New Face
Double Dragon Revive puts one of the oldest retro video games in the fighting genre back into action.
Arc System Works rebuilt the 1987 classic as a 3D beat-โem-up with fast movement, environmental damage, and full multiplayer support.
Release Date and Platforms
| Title | Double Dragon Revive |
| Release Date | October 23, 2025 |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X |
| Engine | Arc System Works Custom 3D Engine |
Key Features
- 3D visuals with dynamic camera angles
- Classic characters and enemies reimagined
- Co-op multiplayer both online and local
- Level design keeps urban street-fighting tone
- Power-ups, grapples, combos, and special finishers
Story Overview
Billy and Jimmy Lee return to rescue Marian from a violent gang. The story sticks to its arcade roots, with simple motivations and straight-to-the-point action.
The remake expands stages, adds new enemy types, and keeps the pace fast.
Letโs Compare the Graphics and Features With Old Version
| Feature | 1987 Original (Arcade) | 2025 Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Visuals | 2D sprites, flat stages | Full 3D with interactive environments |
| Movement | Limited, choppy animation | Smooth animations, dash and dodge |
| Combat | Simple punches and kicks | Expanded combos and finishers |
| Sound | Basic arcade music | Remixed soundtrack with new tracks |
| Multiplayer | Couch co-op only | Online and local co-op |
Double Dragon Revive brings street fighting back with sharp visuals and faster gameplay. It respects its roots without staying stuck in the past.
Every punch, kick, and power move looks clean but hits hard.
6. Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves โ Arcade Fighting Lives Again in 2025
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves marks the first new entry in SNKโs legendary series since 1999.
As one of the earliest retro video games in the competitive fighting genre, Fatal Fury helped shape arcade culture.
The 2025 game builds on that legacy with new characters, fresh mechanics, and tournament-level balance.
The interesting fact is that even a football star Cristiano Ronaldo made a promo video for this game.
GAME ON!๐ฅ
Legendary footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo, joins the roster of FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves!โฝ๏ธ @Cristiano
Get hyped for April 24th when he breaks new ground in South Town!https://t.co/2LVOEgg8SS#FatalFury #CotW #CR7 #KingofFootball pic.twitter.com/VGr8tAjkVr
โ FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves (@FATALFURY_PR) March 26, 2025
Release Date and Platforms
| Title | Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves |
| Release Date | April 24, 2025 |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X |
| Developer | SNK |
Key Features
- Hand-drawn 2.5D animation with modern lighting
- New fighters and returning legends
- Deep combo mechanics with rollback netcode
- Multiple control options for casual and pro players
- Arcade mode, online matches, and training features
Story Overview
Set years after Garou: Mark of the Wolves, the game follows a new generation of fighters entering South Townโs underground scene.
Rivals clash in pursuit of personal pride, revenge, and respect.
Comparison of Graphics and Other Features
| Feature | 1991โ1999 Originals | 2025 Sequel |
|---|---|---|
| Visuals | Pixel sprites, 2D backgrounds | Hand-drawn 2.5D animation |
| Combat Speed | Slower, more deliberate | Fast-paced with smooth chaining |
| Sound | Chiptune and arcade tracks | Dynamic soundtrack with voice cues |
| Online Play | Not available | Full online support with rollback netcode |
| Roster | Limited | Expanded lineup with new fighters |
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves proves that arcade fighting still draws power. SNK brings focus and energy to a game built for modern competition without losing its old-school flavor.
Among retro video games returning in 2025, this one speaks directly to serious players.
7. Amerzone: The Explorerโs Legacy โ A Quiet Adventure Returns
Amerzone: The Explorerโs Legacy takes a different path among retro video games.
Originally released in 1999 by the creators of Syberia, this point-and-click adventure told a slow, atmospheric story about exploration, loss, and redemption.
The 2025 remake by Microids modernizes the world but keeps its reflective pace.
Release Date and Platforms
| Title | Amerzone: The Explorerโs Legacy |
| Release Date | April 24, 2025 |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X |
| Developer | Microids |
Key Features
- Full 3D environments replacing static scenes
- Rebuilt interface for modern controls
- New lighting, textures, and ambient audio
- Faithful recreation of original puzzles and flow
- Free demo available across platforms
Story Overview
A dying explorer sends the player on a final journey to return a sacred egg to the mysterious Amerzone.
The path moves through swamps, jungles, ruins, and forgotten villages. The focus stays on solitude, wonder, and discovery.
Graphics and Features Comparison
| Feature | 1999 Original | 2025 Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Visuals | Static pre-rendered screens | Fully explorable 3D environments |
| Controls | Mouse-only interface | Controller and keyboard compatibility |
| Sound | Low-quality ambient loops | Rich environmental and dynamic sound |
| Story Delivery | Text-heavy | Visual storytelling and voice acting |
| Pacing | Fixed transitions | Seamless exploration |
Amerzone returns quietly, offering a pause in the middle of louder remakes. Its charm never relied on combat or speed.
It focused on worldbuilding and mood. The 2025 remake stays loyal to that goal. Among retro video games returning now, few carry this level of calm depth.
8. Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remastered โ 3D Platforming Jumps Back In
Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remastered brings back one of the earliest full-3D platformers on PlayStation.
Originally released in 1997, Croc combined charm, quirky controls, and playful design.
The 2025 remaster improves camera, visuals, and movement while keeping its bright personality.
Release Date and Platforms
| Title | Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remastered |
| Release Date | Available since April 2, 2025 |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X |
| Developer | Argonaut Games |
Key Features
- Full remaster of levels and character models
- Updated camera system for smooth tracking
- Better jumping and mid-air control
- Same level structure and collectibles
- HD soundtrack and improved audio cues
Story Overview
Croc, a friendly reptile raised by Gobbos, sets out to rescue his small furry friends from the villain Baron Dante.
Each world offers puzzles, enemies, and platforming challenges across caves, snowfields, and castles.
Letโs Compare the Graphics and Other Features
| Feature | 1997 Original (PS1) | 2025 Remaster |
|---|---|---|
| Visuals | Blocky models, flat textures | Smooth shapes, colorful lighting |
| Camera | Manual and stiff | Automatic tracking, tighter angles |
| Movement | Slippery jump arcs | Precise platforming and air control |
| Sound | Compressed effects | Clear stereo audio and remixed music |
| Levels | Identical layout | Minor tweaks for smoother flow |
Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remastered proves that platformers never fade. The 2025 version keeps the heart of the original but trims the frustration.
Controls feel tighter, visuals pop, and Crocโs world finally gets the clarity it always deserved.
Honorary Mentions โ More Retro Video Games Set to Release in 2025
Three more retro video games are confirmed for release after April 8, 2025. Each one brings a unique revival, focused on visuals, smoother controls, and legacy appeal.
Lunar Remastered Collection
Release Date: April 18, 2025
Platforms: Switch, PS4, Xbox One, PC
What to Expect:
Two classic JRPGsโSilver Star Story Complete and Eternal Blue Completeโreturn with widescreen visuals, improved sprites, and newly recorded voice acting in English and Japanese.
Skyblivion
Release Date: 2025 (exact date unconfirmed)
Platform: PC
What to Expect:
A complete fan-made rebuild of Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion inside the Skyrim engine. New graphics, smoother combat, and reworked UI bring the old world back with fresh power.
Tony Hawkโs Pro Skater 3 + 4
Release Date: July 11, 2025
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One
What to Expect:
Two of the most praised skating games return in one polished package. Expect smoother controls, sharper visuals, and updated skater rosters across all major systems.
Final Thoughts
Fans waited years for studios to take these projects seriously. Now they are. Not every game needs a new story or added features. Some only need better visuals, smarter controls, and clean audio to feel complete again.
The selection is wide. Stealth, RPGs, beat-โem-ups, platformersโeach one brings a different kind of memory back to life. Some names shaped genres. Others built loyal followings. All of them now have a second chance on stronger hardware.
