Beyond Good and Evil is a classic game that has stood the test of time, and its 20th anniversary is the perfect opportunity to revisit this timeless masterpiece. The game’s story, characters, and world-building are as compelling as ever, but the recent updates to modernize the controls make it even more enjoyable to play today.
Good looking and playable
The original controls of Beyond Good and Evil were clunky and outdated, but the recent updates have streamlined the experience and made it much more intuitive. The modernized controls make it easier to explore the game’s rich world and engage with its many characters. They also make the combat and puzzle-solving segments more accessible to newcomers.
The graphical update is not as noticeable but still a nice change from the original. It is hard to imagine Beyond Good and Evil being over 20 years old when it looks this good today. Never during my 13 hours with the game, did I think it looked too old to be released in 2024.
Great characters in a great world
The game’s story follows the adventures of Jade, a young photojournalist who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy that threatens to destroy her world. Along the way, she meets a diverse cast of characters, including the lovable pig-like creature, Pey’j, and the enigmatic and powerful, Master Dyzan. The game’s writing is sharp and witty, and the voice acting is top-notch, bringing the characters to life in a way that few games can match.
Beyond Good and Evil’s world is a vibrant and imaginative place, full of strange and wonderful creatures, mysterious ruins, and bustling cities. The game’s art style is stunning, with a distinctive cel-shaded look that holds up well even today. The environments are richly detailed, with lots of hidden secrets and easter eggs to discover.
Gamedesign feels a bit outdated
The gameplay is a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Jade’s camera is a crucial tool, allowing her to take pictures of the world around her and uncover hidden clues. The combat is fast-paced and exciting, with a variety of weapons and abilities to master. The puzzles are challenging but fair, and they often require creative thinking and exploration.
Even with the updated controls and looks, some aspects of the game feel old, games have come a long way since then. One thing is the voice acting, I cannot help but enjoy the game more with the voices turned off but with the excellent music still on. Another aspect is how the main story is locked behind all the pearl-gathering, it was a drag getting everything needed back then, and it is an even bigger drag doing it in 2024.
Conclusion
Overall, Beyond Good and Evil is a game that deserves its classic status. If you can look past the voice acting and pearl-gathering, The updates to modernize the controls have made it even more enjoyable to play today, and the game’s story, characters, and world-building are as compelling as ever. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the game, Beyond Good and Evil is a must-play experience that will leave you eagerly awaiting the long-anticipated sequel.
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