The 20th-anniversary edition of Beyond Good and Evil is a remarkable remaster that improves upon the visuals of the cult classic original game from 2003. Compared to the previous HD version released in 2011, almost every texture, shader, and material has been enhanced with new assets, creating a more satisfying visual experience for fans. Current-generation consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X can run the game at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second, offering a sleek upgrade that stays true to director Michel Ancel’s original vision.
Bonus Features Galore
The Ubisoft team has included a wealth of extras in the package, including behind-the-scenes documentaries, concept art, pre-release videos, and images of removed levels and features. This additional content provides valuable insight into the evolution of the project and the game’s history. The bonus section alone may justify the price of admission for hardcore fans, with added features like a fast-paced racing mode and new content that ties into the upcoming prequel project.
New Info and Visual Updates
The 20th-anniversary edition not only offers new information for seasoned fans but also serves as an entry point for newcomers to discover the magic of the original game. With updated visuals and gameplay elements, the remaster maintains the essence of the original design while enhancing it with sharper, cleaner 4K resolution. HUD elements, textures, and in-game elements have all been revised to match the final result, providing a more immersive experience for players.
Character Updates and Subtle Changes
The revision extends to the characters of Beyond Good and Evil, with updated designs that add a fabric-like effect to their clothing. Even minor characters receive visual updates, with improved textures and details that enhance the overall design. Subtle changes in the game world, such as added details to environments and characters, create a more immersive and “lived-in” feeling without straying too far from the original concept. Ubisoft’s attention to detail and commitment to enhancing every aspect of the game make the 20th-anniversary edition a must-have for fans of the original Beyond Good and Evil.
Console Performance and Mode Selection
All current-generation consoles and PC versions of the game feature updates that allow for mode selection between resolution mode and performance mode. For example, on the PS5, the resolution mode runs at a fixed 4K resolution and 60 frames per second, but may occasionally drop to 30 fps due to alpha effects. The game utilizes a double-buffer v-sync style, causing drops below 60 fps to switch the game temporarily to 30 fps. These drops can be noticeable and disruptive during gameplay, especially when using certain abilities or effects.
Performance Improvements and Disappointments
There is a fix for the PS5 and Series X through an alternative performance mode that reduces the pixel count to 1440p, resulting in fewer jarring drops. However, performance drops still occur, although they are less disruptive than in the 4K resolution mode. The Series S also experiences sudden frame rate drops at certain points, with no lower resolution option currently available to limit the impact of these drops on the console.
Nintendo Switch Release and Visual Changes
The Nintendo Switch version of the game retains many features of the PS5 and Series X versions but with some visual changes. The resolution varies between 900p and 1080p when docked, with handheld mode running at a maximum of 720p. While the game offers improved textures and geometry in some areas compared to the 2011 HD version, the lower 3GB of usable RAM on the Switch results in cutbacks in texture and shader quality in other areas. The Switch also has a 30 fps cap, with noticeable drops in frame rate during certain gameplay situations.
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