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Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition
Item: Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableJun 24, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperUbisoft

Overview

Swoop into the marvelous world of Hillys as action-reporter Jade to investigate the mysterious DomZ alien attacks alongside colorful characters, like her adoptive uncle Pey’j or the valiant Double H. Embark on this epic adventure in up to 4K, 60 fps with improved graphics, controls, and audio, along with brand-new autosave and cross-save features. Enjoy exclusive new rewards as you explore the planet and discover more about Jade’s past in a new treasure hunt throughout Hillys. Put your skills to the test thanks to the new speedrun mode and updated achievements, and learn more about the game’s development and secrets in the anniversary gallery! Armed with her daï-jo and faithful camera, Jade’s adventure will get you to freely explore Hillys, combat creatures large and small, infiltrate dangerous areas, solve enigmatic puzzles, play addictive mini-games, race the best hovercraft pilots, and take pictures of the whole experience.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition receives glowing reviews for its engaging narrative and well-crafted characters, especially Jade's compelling journey through conspiracies and corruption. Critics laud its humor and emotional depth, making it resonate with both new and veteran players. However, some note shortcomings in narrative depth and resolution, with certain aspects feeling underexplored. Overall, despite minor critiques, the story remains a beloved classic with lasting appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its engaging narrative and well-developed characters. Many reviewers, such as BaziCenter and GameOver.gr, highlighted the compelling journey of Jade, a photojournalist, as she navigates a richly crafted world filled with conspiracies involving alien threats and government corruption. The story's blend of humor, mature themes, and adventure resonates well with players, as noted by GamersRD and Hobby Consolas, who appreciated the memorable characters and the depth of the narrative. Critics like GamingBolt and Twinfinite emphasized the thematic richness and emotional investment that the game offers, suggesting that the story remains captivating even two decades after its original release. Despite the accolades, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the story's execution. For instance, Voxel and Cubed3 noted that while the narrative is relatable and features appealing characters, it sometimes lacks depth and resolution, leaving players wanting more. Metro GameCentral mentioned a dense backstory that feels underexplored, which may prevent players from fully connecting with the characters. Additionally, PlayStation Country described the story as simple with obvious antagonists, suggesting that while entertaining, it may not offer the complexity some players seek. These critiques indicate that while the story is engaging, it may not satisfy all players' desires for intricate storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition successfully delivers a compelling narrative that resonates with both new and returning players. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for Jade's character and her journey, with many critics like TechRadar Gaming and IGN Spain emphasizing the story's relevance and emotional depth. The combination of humor, adventure, and political undertones makes it a standout aspect of the game, ensuring that it remains a beloved classic. While some critiques regarding depth and execution exist, they do not overshadow the overall positive reception of the story, which continues to engage players after 20 years.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition impresses with its engaging blend of combat, puzzles, stealth, and exploration that pays homage to classic gaming. Critics praise its rich gameplay and nostalgic elements, particularly the character of Jade and hovercraft mechanics. However, dated combat and stealth mechanics might alienate younger players, with some reviewers noting stiffness and technical issues. While the game’s creativity and variety shine, its outdated elements could frustrate newcomers. Expect a rewarding experience, but be prepared to overlook some shortcomings to truly appreciate this classic.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who highlight its diverse and engaging mechanics. Many reviewers, such as BaziCenter and Eurogamer Portugal, appreciate the seamless integration of combat, puzzle-solving, stealth, exploration, and photography, which collectively enhance the narrative experience. Critics like GamingTrend and God is a Geek commend the game for its well-designed dungeons and the rewarding nature of exploration, noting that the variety of activities keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging. The nostalgic elements, such as the hovercraft mechanics and the character of Jade, have also been praised for adding depth to the gameplay experience, with several critics acknowledging the game’s ability to evoke a sense of adventure reminiscent of classic titles like The Legend of Zelda. However, despite the overall enjoyment expressed, many critics point out that certain gameplay mechanics feel dated and can detract from the experience. GameOver.gr and GamersRD note that while the game remains enjoyable, some mechanics, particularly in combat and stealth, may not resonate with younger players accustomed to modern gaming standards. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Jeuxvideo.com mention that combat can feel stiff and simplistic, while stealth mechanics may suffer from imbalances and camera issues. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Twinfinite and Cubed3, highlight that certain aspects of gameplay can become tedious or frustrating due to poor execution or outdated design elements, which may confuse newcomers to the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition offers a rich and varied gameplay experience that is both nostalgic and engaging, yet it struggles with some outdated mechanics that may hinder its appeal to a modern audience. While many, including GamingBolt and Metro GameCentral, appreciate the game’s blend of different genres and the rewarding exploration, they also acknowledge that aspects like combat and level design show signs of age. The game’s charm lies in its diversity and creativity, as noted by TheXboxHub and Pure Xbox, but the dated mechanics could pose challenges for new players. Ultimately, the game is celebrated for its unique qualities, but it may require a willingness to overlook its shortcomings to fully enjoy the experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition impresses with major visual upgrades, including 4K resolution and 60fps, winning over critics with its vibrant art style and improved lighting. While many aspects shine, some environments and enemy designs feel dated, and performance hiccups like frame rate drops detract from the experience. Overall, the remaster is a solid tribute to the original, balancing nostalgia with modern graphics, but not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition have garnered largely positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, including BaziCenter and Eurogamer Portugal, noted significant improvements in texture quality, character design, and overall visual fidelity, with the game now supporting 4K resolution and 60fps. Critics like Hobby Consolas and TechRadar Gaming praised the vibrant art style and enhanced lighting effects, which contribute to a visually appealing experience that retains the charm of the original game. The remaster's ability to modernize the visuals while preserving the unique artistic identity of Beyond Good & Evil has been widely appreciated, with GamingTrend and TheSixthAxis highlighting the successful balance between nostalgia and contemporary graphical standards. However, not all feedback has been entirely positive. Some critics pointed out that while the remaster has improved many aspects, certain elements still show their age. GameOver.gr and Jeuxvideo.com mentioned that while character models received significant attention, environments and enemy designs remained less detailed, reflecting the limitations of the original game's era. Additionally, several reviewers, including GamersRD and Metro GameCentral, noted performance issues such as frame rate drops during high-action sequences and clunky animations that detract from the overall experience. Critics like IGN Italia and SomosXbox echoed these sentiments, suggesting that while the visual enhancements are commendable, they are occasionally undermined by inconsistencies in character animations and design. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition successfully revitalizes the game's visuals, making it a worthy remaster for both new players and long-time fans. The improvements in resolution, texture quality, and lighting have been widely praised, as seen in the reviews from GamingBolt and Pure Xbox, which emphasize the game's vibrant aesthetic and enhanced performance. Despite some lingering issues with certain animations and environmental details, the remaster is generally viewed as a successful update that honors the original's artistic vision while making it more accessible and visually appealing for modern audiences.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The sound design and music of Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition are a triumph, with critics lauding the stunning reorchestrated soundtrack and high-quality voice acting that enhance the game's emotional depth. While some outdated sound effects and mixed opinions on character performances exist, the overall reception celebrates the soundtrack as a captivating upgrade that honors the original while modernizing the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer Portugal and GameOver.gr, praised the newly recorded orchestral soundtrack, highlighting how it enhances the overall experience and emotional tone of the game. The reorchestrated music, described as both beautiful and impactful, has been noted for maintaining the original's melodic charm while elevating the game's atmosphere. Critics like Push Square and TheSixthAxis emphasized the stunning quality of the re-recorded tracks by composer Christophe Héral, which contribute significantly to the immersive experience. Additionally, the high-quality voice acting, mentioned by GameOver.gr and PlayStation Country, adds depth to character interactions, further enriching the narrative. Despite the praise, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the sound design. Jeuxvideo.com noted that while the reorchestrated music is commendable, some sound effects remain outdated, which could detract from the overall immersion for some players. Voxel echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the soundtrack has been partially reorchestrated, the overall sound design does not stand out significantly. Furthermore, Cubed3 mentioned corny voice acting that, while charming, may not appeal to everyone, indicating a mixed reception regarding character performances. These critiques suggest that while the music and voice acting are generally well-received, there are aspects of the sound design that could benefit from further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition are strong components of the remaster, significantly enhancing the gameplay experience. The majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment, with many reviewers highlighting the successful integration of new orchestral recordings that respect the original's essence while modernizing it for new audiences. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Movies Games and Tech emphasized the memorable and captivating nature of the soundtrack, which, combined with the improved visuals, creates a rich and engaging atmosphere. Thus, while there are minor criticisms regarding certain outdated elements, the overall reception is that the sound design and music contribute positively to the game's legacy and enjoyment.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition is largely praised for enhancing immersion and character depth, with standout performances noted in the Spanish dubbing. Critics highlight the chemistry between characters as a key strength, but some point out flaws, like missed original voice portrayals and varying expressiveness. Overall, it’s seen as a significant asset to the game, despite some reservations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its significant role in enhancing the game's immersive experience. Reviewers from GameOver.gr and GamingBolt praised the high-quality performances, emphasizing how they contribute to the compelling narrative. Hobby Consolas specifically noted the excellence of the Spanish dubbing by Yolanda Mateos, which added depth to the characters and enriched the overall experience. TechRadar Gaming highlighted the chemistry between key characters, Jade, Pey’j, and Double H, noting that their interactions and dialogue not only made the characters more likable but also provided hints for optional objectives, further engaging players in the game world. However, some critiques pointed out notable shortcomings in the voice acting. GamingTrend mentioned a missed opportunity due to the absence of the original voice actress for certain scenes, which detracted from the immersion. NintendoWorldReport echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while David Gasman’s portrayal of Pey'J was heartfelt, Jade's character lacked expressiveness, causing emotional moments to feel less impactful. Additionally, Cubed3 described the voice acting as "corny" despite its memorability, indicating a divide in quality perception among different performances. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the voice acting in Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition, with many praising the performances for their ability to bring characters to life and enhance the game’s narrative. Critics like GameCritics and Movies Games and Tech emphasized the positive contributions of the main cast, while IGN Spain celebrated the quality of the Spanish voice acting. Despite some criticisms regarding expressiveness and missed opportunities, the general sentiment reflects that the voice acting is a strong asset to the game's charm and appeal, making it a memorable experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition impresses with solid performance on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC, boasting 60 FPS and enhanced graphics. Critics praise its modernization, though issues like frame drops on PS5, unstable 30 FPS on Switch, and long load times on Xbox mar the experience. Overall, it's a commendable remaster that retains the charm of the original but still has room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition has garnered a largely positive reception across various platforms, particularly on the PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC. Reviewers like BaziCenter and Eurogamer Portugal praised the game for maintaining a stable frame rate of 60 FPS, with many noting the enhancements in graphical fidelity and controls. Critics such as TechRadar Gaming and Player 2 highlighted the smooth performance at 4K resolution and 60 FPS on both PS5 and PC, while COGconnected noted that quick resume features on Xbox Series X help mitigate loading issues. Overall, the remaster has successfully modernized the experience, with improved textures and autosave features being well-received. However, there are notable technical issues across all platforms that detract from the overall experience. On the PS5, reviewers like GamersRD and Impulsegamer pointed out frame rate drops and graphical slowdowns in specific sections, alongside camera problems that affected gameplay. The Nintendo Switch version, as noted by Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo, struggles with maintaining a stable 30 FPS, with occasional dips during intense moments and issues with lighting and textures. On the Xbox Series X, while many critics acknowledged solid performance, there were mentions of long initial load times and clunky controls during combat, as highlighted by Movies Games and Tech. These issues suggest that while the remaster is an improvement, it is not without its flaws. The overall consensus among critics suggests that Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition is a commendable remaster that successfully brings the classic title to modern systems while retaining its charm. Most reviewers agree that the technical performance is solid, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, with minor hiccups that do not significantly detract from the experience. Critics like GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis emphasized the game's smooth performance and modernized controls, while also acknowledging the occasional technical glitches. Despite the shortcomings, the remaster is seen as a worthy update that enhances the original game while still leaving room for further improvements.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition is largely praised for its replay value thanks to new features like Speedrun mode and additional content that enrich the experience for both fans and newcomers. Critics celebrate the remaster's improvements and new missions, arguing they enhance longevity. However, some express concerns over its length and limited appeal for players unfamiliar with the original, suggesting a mixed reception on replay potential. Overall, it's a solid nostalgia trip with enough fresh elements to warrant revisits.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the various new features and content that enhance the game's longevity. Critics like BaziCenter and Eurogamer Portugal commend the inclusion of new modes such as the Speedrun and Anniversary Gallery, which provide fresh challenges and insights into the game's development. Additionally, GameOver.gr and GamersRD emphasize the value added by new missions, character skins, and achievements, suggesting that these elements cater to both returning players and newcomers. The remaster's quality of life improvements and extra activities, such as races and pursuits, are noted by multiple reviewers, including GamingTrend and Metro GameCentral, as significant contributors to the game's replayability. However, there are some criticisms regarding the replay value, particularly concerning the game's overall length and how it may not appeal to all players. Impulsegamer points out that while the game is enjoyable, it may not win over fans unfamiliar with the original, suggesting a limited replay value for new players. Additionally, PlayStation Country mentions that the game feels light on additional content, and some critics, such as Voxel and Cubed3, argue that the game lacks substantial replay value due to its limited world and gameplay mechanics. This sentiment is echoed by some reviewers who note that the core experience remains similar to the original, which could deter players seeking a significantly different experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition offers a commendable amount of replay value primarily through its new content and features, appealing to both fans of the original and new players. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TheSixthAxis highlight the various enhancements, such as the Speedrun mode and new questlines, that encourage exploration and replayability. While some reviewers express concerns about the game's length and the potential for frustration with certain puzzles, the majority agree that the added content provides enough incentive for players to revisit the game. Overall, the remaster is seen as a worthwhile experience, particularly for those interested in the nostalgia of the original title and the new elements that bridge to its sequel.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the remaster for its ability to breathe new life into a classic title. Reviewers like Eurogamer Portugal and GameOver.gr highlight the game's multifaceted gameplay experience and quality, asserting that it successfully appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers. Critics such as TechRadar Gaming and God is a Geek commend the remaster for its thoughtful enhancements, including improved visuals and added content, which respect the original while modernizing the experience. The nostalgia factor is also a recurring theme, with many reviewers, including GamingTrend and Metro GameCentral, emphasizing the game's endearing characters and engaging story, making it a compelling experience worth revisiting. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as several critics pointed out some dated elements that may detract from the overall experience. For instance, BaziCenter and Impulsegamer noted that certain gameplay mechanics feel outdated, which could be a barrier for new players unfamiliar with the original. Critics like PlayStation Country and Voxel expressed concerns about pacing issues and a lack of innovation in the remaster, suggesting that while it is a solid tribute to the original, it could have done more to enhance the gameplay experience. Additionally, minor technical flaws were mentioned by Games.cz and Softpedia, indicating that while the remaster is enjoyable, it is not without its shortcomings. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition is a worthwhile remaster that successfully captures the essence of the original while making it accessible to a new audience. Many reviewers, including IGN Italia and COGconnected, recommend it as the best way to experience this cult classic, emphasizing its engaging narrative and nostalgic charm. The remaster is seen as a celebration of a beloved title, with hopes for a sequel being a common sentiment among critics like Xbox Tavern and Movies Games and Tech. In summary, the majority of critics agree that this remaster is a significant achievement, offering a compelling experience that resonates well with both old fans and new players alike.

TL;DR

Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition earns mostly positive reviews for revitalizing a classic with enhanced visuals and content. Critics praise its nostalgic charm and engaging story, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. However, some outdated mechanics and pacing issues detract from the experience. Overall, it’s considered a worthy remaster that celebrates the original while leaving fans hoping for a sequel.

MONSTER

Reviews

81 reviews found

God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Jun 28, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil - 20th Anniversary Edition is a great version of a genuinely wonderful game that truly does the original release justice and even adds to it. It is a stone-cold classic and well worth your time.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jul 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition is a faithful remaster that stands the test of time, offering a masterclass in storytelling and gameplay.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Jun 25, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition is an absolute classic with endearing characters, engaging gameplay, and improved visuals and controls. It offers a compelling experience for both new players and returning fans, making it a must-play title.

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COGconnected

Xbox Series X

Jul 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil – 20th Anniversary Edition is the best way to experience this cult classic, with improvements that cater to both nostalgia and new players.

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GameOver.gr

PlayStation 5

Jul 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition is a delightful remaster that appeals to both fans of the original and new players. Its quality and affordable price make it a worthwhile purchase.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Jun 25, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition retains the essence of the original game while making necessary quality of life improvements. It offers a nostalgic experience with added bonuses for longtime fans, making it a worthwhile revisit for both old and new players.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Jul 1, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil remains a fantastic game with enduring qualities, despite some age-related shortcomings. It is considered the best way to experience the game and is hoped to generate interest in the long-awaited sequel.

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Jun 25, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition is a well-executed remaster that enhances the original game with technical improvements, new content, and a nostalgic revisit to a beloved classic. Fans of the series should consider revisiting this iconic title.

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GameGrin

Jul 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition is a great game that deserves to be played, with minimal or no negatives, recommended for both new fans and veterans.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

Aug 9, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beyond Good and Evil 20th Anniversary Edition is a must-play remaster that ticks all the right boxes despite some dated elements.

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