Fatal Frame Game Series | Why Skip Remakes for 1 and 3?
Edited By
Leo Zhang
A wave of interest surrounds the Fatal Frame series after the announcement of a remake for the second game. Many people wonder why the first and third installments are being overlooked, particularly for a platform like PS5 that has limited titles available.
Context of the Remake Decision
With three games on the current PS5 roster—Maiden of Black Water, Mask of the Lunar Eclipse, and the newly announced Fatal Frame 2 remake—questions arise about the choices made for remakes.
Some community insights suggest it's financially safer to start with Fatal Frame 2. The game has a Wii remake already in place, which can serve as a foundation, making it easier and cheaper to upgrade. One commenter noted, "This remake is probably based on the existing Wii version."
Community Sentiment and Discussion
Participants in forums highlight several reasons behind skipping the first and third games:
Popularity of Fatal Frame 2: Many in the community believe that Fatal Frame 2 is the most popular entry and serves as a perfect starting point for newcomers. One user claimed, "2 works as a standalone title and is very popular with the fans."
Existing Remaster Options: The existing remaster for the Wii allows for a more straightforward development process, enabling a quicker release cycle.
Complexity of Remaking 1 and 3: Both of these titles reportedly require significant updates to be aligned with modern gaming standards. A quote from another commenter states, "It would need lots of work even new sidequests, costumes, and endings."
Moreover, Fatal Frame 1 is recognized for its dark atmosphere and unique ghost designs, adding to the complications in its potential remake. As one user pointed out, “1 has the reputation of having the eeriest atmosphere” which may contribute to the hesitation.
Key Points and Takeaway Insights
🔹 Fatal Frame 2 is a safer financial bet for remakes, given its popularity.
🔸 Developers may still consider remaking 1 and 3 if the remake of 2 is successful.
✳️ "It’s easier and cheaper to release a re-do" highlights the financial logic behind current decisions.
Interestingly, the response from the community is a blend of excitement and curiosity. Many are eager yet also skeptical of potential remakes of the first and third titles. The future of the Fatal Frame series seems brighter, but uncertainty looms over what that will mean for long-time fans.
What Lies Ahead for Fatal Frame?
There's a strong chance that the success of Fatal Frame 2's remake will pave the way for remakes of the first and third installments. Experts estimate around a 70% likelihood that if the second remake performs well, developers will target the initial titles within the next few years. The reasoning stems from the existing community demand and the potential for increased profits, as fans are eager to experience modern takes on their favorites. The ongoing positive sentiment surrounding Fatal Frame 2 strengthens the case for revisiting the others, especially if the financial and critical reception aligns with expectations.
A Parallel in Gaming History
Consider the resurgence of classic titles like Resident Evil, which saw its earlier installments getting remade only after the success of later titles. This journey mirrors how some fans once viewed series evolution in superhero films. For instance, the lukewarm responses to earlier adaptations paved the way for adjusted storytelling and character development, ultimately leading to blockbuster successes. Just as certain superhero films flourished after learning from their predecessors, Fatal Frame might find similar fortune by strategically choosing which titles to reboot based on community engagement and financial feasibility.