Original Uncharted designer Benson Russell has voiced his hesitation regarding a remake of Drake's Fortune, calling it potentially unnecessary and a 'cash grab'.

Key Takeaways

  • Designer Benson Russell opposes a remake of the original Uncharted game.
  • He argues that remaking the game could destroy its original spirit and story.
  • Russell suggests that modern players can already access the experience on current consoles.

Speculation regarding a remake of the iconic Uncharted: Drake's Fortune has been swirling for years. However, Benson Russell, a designer for two of the original titles and a developer at Naughty Dog, has provided a blunt perspective on why such a move might be misguided.

In a recent conversation, Russell explained that the original game still holds a significant place in the cultural zeitgeist. He noted that unlike games like System Shock, which required remakes due to outdated mechanics, Drake's Fortune is already accessible on modern hardware, making a full remake feel redundant.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the industry is currently facing a dilemma between nostalgia-driven remakes and original innovation. Russell's stance highlights a critical risk: when developers attempt to 'fix' a classic, they often inadvertently strip away the very essence that made it legendary in the first place.

'You’d have to rewrite the whole story to make it better, which means you’re going to change the spirit and the scenes that the first one was about.'

Russell further criticized the trend by suggesting that a remake would feel more like a corporate 'cash grab' than a necessary evolution. He drew parallels to The Last of Us Part 1, noting that some games are classics for a reason and should be left untouched to preserve their legacy.

Historical Background

Released in 2007 for the PlayStation 3, Uncharted: Drake's Fortune launched the legendary saga of Nathan Drake. It set the gold standard for cinematic action-adventure gaming, influencing nearly every title in its genre for the following decade.

Did You Know?: The Uncharted series is credited with pioneering the 'playable blockbuster' feel in modern gaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Naughty Dog officially working on an Uncharted remake?
No, there has been no official announcement from Naughty Dog regarding a remake.

2. What is Benson Russell's main concern?
His main concern is that changing the story and scenes to fit modern standards would destroy the game's original spirit.