While fans are expecting ground-breaking new releases for the new console generation delivered by Microsoft & Sony, developers are returning to legacy IPs to ship new, authentic takes on the original games that defined consoles more than a decade ago. Already, Halo Infinite stands to be a reimagining of the original formula for the new era. But, that is what is out now.
Looking ahead, Electronic Arts with EA motive revealed previously that Dead Space is being remade for the latest consoles on the market. Additionally, Bioshock is also on the path of returning over at 2K’s dedicated developer, Cloud Chamber. And now the same initiative is coming from Ubisoft over in Canada.
In a new announcement on Wednesday, Ubisoft Toronto is working to deliver a remake for the Splinter Cell franchise. The firm goes on to press that the Snowdrop Engine used in Assassin’s Creed, Watch Dogs, and Rainbow Six Siege is being implemented for the coming project.
To me, a remake takes what you’d do in a remaster and goes a little bit further with it. The original Splinter Cell has a lot that was amazing and revolutionary at the time it came out, 19 years ago. The gaming public now has an even more refined palate. So, I think it kind of has to be a remake as opposed to a remaster. Although we’re still in the very earliest stages of development, what we’re trying to do is make sure the spirit of the early games remains intact, in all of the ways that gave early Splinter Cell its identity.
So, as we’re building it from the ground up, we’re going to update it visually, as well as some of the design elements to match player comfort and expectations, and we are going to keep it linear like the original games, not make it open world. How do we make sure that new fans are able to pick up the controller and dive right in, and fall in love with the game and the world right from the get-go?
Matt West, Splinter Cell Remake Producer
West adds, “The phrase “Stealth Action Redefined” from the original game has actually proven to be a really valuable North Star for us. We’re able to, for example, apply that to what Peter was just saying, as far as being able to prototype and innovate and test some stuff out. That is very much in keeping with us redefining what stealth action is going to feel like for a modern audience.”
In the past, claims have circulated suggesting the classic franchise is on the Ubisoft playbook these past couple of years. Speaking to Game Informer, Ubisoft CCO Serge Hascoet previously told that plans for a return is possible, but, he could not confirm when. Ahead of this week’s announcement, the only plans for a new game was slated for Meta (Oculus) headsets in an arrangement between Facebook and Ubisoft prior.
However, Video Game Chronicles in a separate piece recently told that there is plans to tackle Sam Fischer’s story once again. Although the outlet could not determine the aim for the new pursuit, it was certain Ubisoft Montreal was not working on the title. One report that could also align with accuracy is from Rectify Gaming indicating marketing for the new game to be under the Xbox banner. You can read the full report by heading here.
What are you hoping to see from this new remake for Splinter Cell?
Source: Ubisoft
