The decision behind Capcom's use of RE Engine for the Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection is an intriguing one, and it offers a glimpse into the strategic considerations of game development and remastering.
The RE Engine's Role
RE Engine has become a powerhouse for Capcom, powering their recent blockbuster titles like Pragmata and Resident Evil Requiem. Its ability to deliver photorealistic 3D graphics efficiently is a significant advantage, especially when considering the cost and time constraints of remastering projects.
A Surprising Choice
What makes the use of RE Engine for the Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection particularly fascinating is the contrast it presents. This collection, comprised of older titles originally developed for the Nintendo DS, might not have been an obvious candidate for such a powerful engine. However, Capcom's decision-makers had a clear vision and a set of challenges they wanted to overcome.
The Challenges and Solutions
Director Akira Oda highlights the unique challenges they faced. The original Mega Man Star Force series didn't have the same commercial success as other Mega Man titles, so simply porting the games wouldn't do the series justice. They needed to make significant design changes to enhance the fun factor, all while working within limited resources and aiming for a multi-platform release.
The solution? Assemble a top-notch internal team and leverage the capabilities of RE Engine. This engine, with its efficient problem-solving and smooth environmental support, was seen as the only viable option to achieve their goals.
Expanding Awareness and Reach
Lead programmer Naoki Kusumoto further emphasizes the importance of platform deployment for remaster projects. The RE Engine's ability to facilitate easy platform deployment while maintaining high quality at a low cost is a significant advantage. This ensures that the remastered games can reach a wider audience, including those who might have missed the original releases.
A Strategic Move
In my opinion, Capcom's decision to use RE Engine for the Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection is a strategic move to not only enhance the gaming experience but also to expand the reach and awareness of this particular Mega Man series. By utilizing a powerful engine, they can ensure the games look and play well on various platforms, appealing to both old and new audiences.
This approach is in contrast to Square Enix's decision to stick with Unreal Engine 4 for Final Fantasy 7 Revelation, which suggests that the choice of engine often depends on the specific goals and constraints of each project.
Conclusion
The use of RE Engine for the Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection showcases the careful consideration that goes into remastering projects. It's a reminder that behind every game release, there's a team of experts making strategic decisions to ensure the best possible experience for players. In this case, Capcom's choice of engine has the potential to breathe new life into an older series, making it accessible and appealing to a modern audience.
