Confirming the earlier leaks, a full remaster of the iconic first-person shooter, Quake 2, is now out on the market.
As a tribute to the game’s illustrious legacy, the new and polished version of Quake II is now available across a range of platforms, from PC to Xbox and PlayStation, even gracing the Nintendo Switch. And for those who’d previously added Quake II to their collection via platforms like the Microsoft Store, Steam, or Good Old Games (GOG), the transition to this enhanced experience is seamless, and more importantly, free.
This development marks a collaboration between the stalwarts at id Software, Nightdive Studios, and Bethesda, pooling together their vast expertise to revive the 1997 classic. Much like a beloved tune played on a modern sound system, the remastered Quake II preserves the original’s essence while embedding contemporary conveniences that today’s gamers crave. With features like cloud saves, a 4K Ultra HD resolution option, split-screen local, online co-op and multiplayer modes, and even a dedicated suite of accessibility options, the new Quake II is both a nostalgic journey and a fresh experience.
As one delves deeper into the game’s offerings, they’ll be greeted with a medley of both the classic and the new. While the legendary gameplay remains untouched, the original soundtrack by Sonic Mayhem has been preserved, complete with widescreen support and a slew of visual upgrades that ensure every aspect of the game pops on screen. Content that might’ve once never seen the light of day, having been relegated to the proverbial “cutting room floor,” is now reintegrated into the game.
Diving further into its content, Quake II’s package comes robustly packed. The original mission packs, “The Reckoning” and “Ground Zero,” find their way into this edition, bringing with them a plethora of campaign levels and deathmatch maps. But what’s bound to pique the interest of both series veterans and newcomers alike is the brand-new expansion, “Call of the Machine,” devised by the creative minds at MachineGames. This expansion promises not just a wealth of new campaign levels but a compelling story that throws players against a formidable machine that could unravel the very fabric of reality.
Not to be outdone, the multiplayer segment of Quake II also sees vast improvements. Gamers can indulge in various modes, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, and capture the flag, supporting up to 16 players. Moreover, the full crossplay feature ensures players across different platforms can join forces or face off against each other. However, to maintain a balanced playing field, PC players wishing to skirmish with their console counterparts would need to wield a controller.
Adding another layer of nostalgia, the enhanced version of Quake II also brings with it Quake II 64, the exclusive port initially meant for the Nintendo 64, now reimagined with modern enhancements. It’s a delightful nod to the franchise’s rich history, ensuring players experience every facet of Quake II’s legacy.
Finally, PC owners, especially those on platforms like GOG or Steam, can seamlessly switch between this experience and the untouched, still-moddable version of the game, offering the best of both worlds.
At an accessible price point of $9.99, and with options for even more economic avenues like Game Pass subscriptions, diving back into the chaotic world of Quake II has never been more enticing. Whether you’re a veteran looking to relive cherished memories or a newcomer eager to experience a piece of gaming history, Quake II’s remastered version is a masterclass in how to rejuvenate a classic.
