In a move that both celebrates its past and hints at its future, Ubisoft has released “Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition,” a remastered version of the cult classic action-adventure game. This release not only allows fans to revisit the beloved original with enhanced graphics but also provides tantalizing clues about the long-anticipated sequel, “Beyond Good & Evil 2.”
The anniversary edition, now available on multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch, showcases significant graphical upgrades while retaining many features from its PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X counterparts. On the Switch, the game’s resolution fluctuates between 900p and 1080p in docked mode, targeting 720p in portable mode. Frame rate is capped at 30 FPS, with even frame pacing ensuring a smooth experience for the most part, though some areas experience noticeable drops.
While the Switch version does miss out on some improved textures seen in other versions, it still boasts enhanced environmental textures compared to the 2011 HD release. The remaster also features improved geometry, particularly noticeable in minor characters’ fingers, and retains certain shader effects.
However, the true excitement for fans lies not just in reliving the past, but in the hints about the future. Ubisoft has embedded a new treasure hunt within the anniversary edition, revealing narrative links to “Beyond Good & Evil 2.” This addition showcases “Ubisoft’s enduring commitment to the franchise,” according to the company.
The treasure hunt leads players to discover a holographic message from Dakini, the protagonist Jade’s mother figure, along with artifacts tied to characters set to appear in the prequel. These items include a compass, a knife, a chess piece, goggles, and a dreamcatcher, each associated with members of the space pirate crew introduced in the 2018 cinematic trailer for “Beyond Good & Evil 2.”
This narrative link marks the first official update on the sequel since 2021, reigniting hope for a project that has been in development for an astounding 17 years. First teased in 2007 by then-game director Michel Ancel, “Beyond Good & Evil 2” has had a tumultuous development history, marked by long silences, leaked footage, and changes in direction.
The game’s concept has evolved significantly over the years, shifting from a direct sequel to a prequel where players will create their own character rather than controlling Jade. Ubisoft’s ambitious vision for the game includes a vast open world with both single-player and cooperative multiplayer elements.
Despite the departure of Michel Ancel from Ubisoft in 2020 and the tragic loss of creative director Emile Morel in 2023, the company insists that development is “progressing well.” The inclusion of narrative ties in the anniversary edition seems to confirm Ubisoft’s commitment to the previously revealed cast and setting.
As fans celebrate two decades of “Beyond Good & Evil” with this polished remaster, they also look to the future with cautious optimism. While the exact form “Beyond Good & Evil 2” will take remains to be seen, this latest release suggests that Ubisoft hasn’t forgotten about the passionate fanbase eagerly awaiting their return to this beloved universe.
For now, players can enjoy the enhanced experience of the original game across multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, as they piece together clues about what the future might hold for this enduring franchise.
