Lunar Remastered Collection Set to Release on April 18
The highly anticipated Lunar Remastered Collection is set to launch on PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC on April 18. The console versions will feature Amazon-exclusive physical editions. While preorders are not yet available, live store pages for the physical editions of PS4, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox One have been established. Gamers are encouraged to monitor these listings as preorder options are expected to open soon.
What to Expect from the Lunar Remastered Collection
The Lunar Remastered Collection is poised to deliver enhanced versions of the beloved RPGs Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and its sequel Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete. Both titles will present retouched graphics, improved audio quality, and new English localizations. Additionally, gameplay enhancements, including optional battle speed increases, are designed to modernize these classic RPGs for a new audience.
Notably, the Amazon-exclusive editions will include reversible cover art illustrated by renowned series artist Toshiyuki Kubooka. A digital version of the collection will also be accessible for consoles and PC platforms.
Historical Significance of the Lunar Series
This collection offers an exceptional opportunity to revisit two of the most significant RPGs from both the 16-bit and 32-bit eras. Originally released on the Sega CD, Lunar: Silver Star Story is recognized as a defining title in the Japanese RPG genre, notable for its pioneering use of voice acting, animated cutscenes, and CD-quality sound. The game was subsequently remade for PS1 and Sega Saturn as Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete, included in the Remastered Collection. Its sequel, Lunar 2: Eternal Blue, further refined the gameplay and narrative, expanding on voice acting and character development.
While voice acting, cinematic storytelling, and high-quality soundtracks are commonplace today, these elements were revolutionary at the time. The Lunar Remastered Collection features entirely new English voice tracks, while also offering an option to play with the original Japanese voice acting. Players can choose between the newly enhanced visuals or the original PS1 graphics for both titles.
Other Classic RPG Remasters on the Horizon
The revival of classic RPG series doesn’t stop with Lunar; other notable titles are also receiving remasters this year. Konami’s Suikoden 1 and 2 will return with the Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster, while the cult favorite Tales of Graces f is slated for a remaster launch on January 17, available for preorder now.
