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MONSTER

Burnout Paradise Remastered

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Burnout Paradise Remastered
Item: Burnout Paradise Remastered
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2018

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableMar 16, 2018

PlatformPC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

DeveloperStellar Entertainment Software

Overview

Welcome back to Paradise City! Make action your middle name as you rule the streets in Burnout Paradise Remastered. Tear up the town from hectic downtown avenues to wild mountain roads. Relive the high-octane stunts and wanton destruction of one of the greatest arcade-driving games ever! Burnout Paradise Remastered provides the ultimate driving playground for you and your friends to play online. This remaster includes the 8 main DLC packs from the Year of Paradise, including the Big Surf Island update, meticulously recreated and ready to wreck!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Burnout Paradise Remastered is a hit-or-miss for critics: some praise its open-world freedom and gameplay focus, while others lament its lack of a compelling story. While fans of racing and exploration may thrive on the aimlessness, those seeking narrative depth are likely to feel disappointed. The game excels in mechanics but risks alienating players who crave an engaging plot.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

100%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the story of Burnout Paradise Remastered highlight a shared appreciation for the game's open-world design and the freedom it offers to players. Destructoid emphasizes the sense of aimlessness and freedom, suggesting that the lack of a structured narrative allows players to engage in the game on their own terms. Similarly, Noisy Pixel points out that while the game may lack a traditional plot, it encourages players to enjoy the world through missions and races, which can be seen as a positive aspect for those who prefer gameplay over storytelling. Critics like Worth Playing also acknowledge the game's focus on progression, as players start with a learner's permit and work towards achieving a higher-class license, which adds a layer of goal-oriented gameplay despite the absence of a conventional narrative. On the flip side, a significant number of critics express disappointment over the lack of a compelling story in Burnout Paradise Remastered. New York Daily News bluntly states that there is no story in the game, a sentiment echoed by both NintendoWorldReport and DarkStation, who describe the setup as straightforward and lacking depth. This absence of narrative structure may leave some players feeling unfulfilled, particularly those who enjoy a more immersive experience with character development and plot progression. The consensus among these critics suggests that the game’s focus on racing and stunts may not resonate with everyone, especially those looking for a more engaging storyline akin to the Fast & Furious franchise. Overall, the critics converge on a consensus that Burnout Paradise Remastered prioritizes gameplay mechanics and the thrill of racing over narrative depth. While some, like Destructoid and Noisy Pixel, appreciate the freedom and fun that comes from a lack of a stringent storyline, others, including New York Daily News and NintendoWorldReport, find this absence to be a significant drawback. The game seems to cater to a specific audience that values open-world exploration and racing challenges, while potentially alienating those who seek a rich narrative experience. Thus, the game stands as a testament to the idea that not all racing titles need a story, but the effectiveness of this approach ultimately depends on player expectations.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Burnout Paradise Remastered delivers an exhilarating racing experience that's won over critics with its engaging gameplay, open-world exploration, and responsive driving mechanics. Reviewers praise the diverse challenges and all-inclusive DLC, boosting replayability. However, concerns about AI issues, repetitive races, and the absence of modern features like fast travel mar the experience. Despite these drawbacks, the game remains a thrilling ride, capturing high-speed chaos for both newcomers and series fans alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Burnout Paradise Remastered has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its engaging and exhilarating nature. Reviewers such as InsideGamer.nl and NintendoWorldReport praised the game for its diverse array of challenges, races, and stunts that keep players entertained. The open-world design of Paradise City allows for free exploration, which many critics, including God is a Geek and CGMagazine, found to enhance the overall experience. The driving mechanics received commendations for their responsiveness and the thrill of high-speed action, as noted by Giant Bomb and Metro GameCentral, who emphasized the game's ability to reward players for risky driving with boosts and takedowns. Additionally, the inclusion of all DLC content from the start, as mentioned by GameSpew, adds to the game's replayability and variety. However, despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay. Hardcore Gamer and Game Revolution highlighted issues with the AI and the repetitiveness of certain races, suggesting that the experience could become stale over time. The lack of modern quality-of-life features, such as fast travel and map markers, was a common complaint, with critics like GameSpew and Impulsegamer expressing disappointment at these omissions. Furthermore, the availability of all content from the beginning was cited by Hobby Consolas as potentially disrupting the game's balance, which could affect player progression and challenge. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Burnout Paradise Remastered offers a thrilling and enjoyable racing experience that successfully combines open-world exploration with arcade-style gameplay. While there are some criticisms regarding AI performance, repetitiveness, and missing quality-of-life features, the majority of reviewers, including Trusted Reviews and The Sydney Morning Herald, agree that the core gameplay remains strong and engaging. The game captures the essence of high-speed racing and chaotic fun, making it a worthwhile experience for both new players and fans of the original title.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Burnout Paradise Remastered dazzles with improved resolution and smooth 60fps across platforms, earning praise for its vibrant visuals and nostalgic appeal. However, it’s hindered by outdated textures and effects, drawing criticism for feeling like a relic of the past. While it offers some notable upgrades, the remaster ultimately falls short of modern gaming standards, leaving a mixed reception among critics who wanted more polish and innovation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Burnout Paradise Remastered have received a mix of praise from various critics, particularly regarding the enhancements made to the original game. Many reviewers noted the improved resolution and framerate, with several highlighting that the game runs at a smooth 60 frames per second across multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, where it maintains 720p in handheld mode and 1080p docked (Nintendo Insider). Critics like Gamer.nl and Xbox Achievements remarked on the impressive visual upgrades, with Gamer.nl stating that the game still looks good despite being a decade old. The vibrant colors and the overall design of Paradise City were frequently praised, with DarkStation calling it "visually stunning" and acknowledging the aesthetic appeal of the remaster. Additionally, some critics, like Impulsegamer and Eurogamer Italy, emphasized the graphical overhaul, mentioning the 4K support on upgraded consoles, which enhances the car-crashing mayhem experience. However, despite these positives, a significant number of critics pointed out that Burnout Paradise Remastered shows its age in various aspects. Destructoid and Critical Hit noted that the game feels old, with some textures and effects criticized as outdated. Hobby Consolas echoed this sentiment, describing the remaster as a "half-hearted" effort due to minimal new textures and effects. Critics like CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral remarked that the graphics appear to belong to a previous generation, with CGMagazine stating that there are only minor improvements, and Metro GameCentral lamented the lack of substantial changes to textures or object models. Additionally, some reviews highlighted issues specific to the Nintendo Switch version, such as blurriness during high-speed action (Gaming Age) and extreme darkness at night (Nintendo Life). Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Burnout Paradise Remastered does present some notable visual improvements, it ultimately falls short of modern standards. The remaster successfully enhances resolution and framerate, leading to a smoother gameplay experience, as noted by many reviewers. However, the game is frequently described as showing its age, with outdated textures and effects that detract from the overall visual experience. Critics like Stevivor and GameSpew highlighted that, despite the remaster's enhancements, it lacks the polish expected from a current-generation title. In summary, while the remaster offers a nostalgic experience with some visual upgrades, it does not fully meet the expectations set by contemporary gaming standards, leaving a mixed impression among players and critics alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Burnout Paradise Remastered boasts an exceptional soundtrack featuring rock legends like Guns N' Roses and AC/DC, earning rave reviews for its nostalgic and immersive sound design. Critics praise the thrilling atmosphere it creates, though some note minor issues with sound mixing and dated tracks. Overall, the game's audio elevates the experience, making it a standout title, despite a few drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Burnout Paradise Remastered have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Reviewers like 3DJuegos and CGMagazine praised the excellent sound design and diverse soundtrack, which features iconic tracks from artists such as Guns N' Roses and AC/DC, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Critics highlighted the nostalgic value of the soundtrack, with GameCritics noting it as a "time capsule of mid-2000s goodness," while GameOver.gr emphasized how the music contributes to the thrilling atmosphere of racing in Paradise City. The presence of DJ Atomika, who adds character to the experience, was also positively received by multiple reviewers, including DarkStation and Xbox Achievements, who found him entertaining rather than annoying. Despite the generally favorable reviews, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks. The Guardian mentioned that while the late-00s rock soundtrack might feel dated to some players, it still adds to the overall experience. Additionally, there were mentions of sound mixing issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, as noted by NintendoWorldReport, which experienced some discrepancies when played on systems with subwoofers. TheSixthAxis also raised concerns about certain game mechanics and DJ monologues being annoying, suggesting that while the music is a highlight, not all aspects of the sound design were universally praised. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Burnout Paradise Remastered excels in its sound design and music, creating an immersive and enjoyable experience for players. The majority of reviewers, including PlayStation Country and Trusted Reviews, highlighted the soundtrack's ability to enhance the gameplay, with many noting its nostalgic appeal. The remastered version retains most of the original tracks, which has been well-received by fans of the franchise. While there are minor criticisms regarding sound mixing and some dated elements, the positive sentiment surrounding the soundtrack and sound effects far outweighs the negatives, solidifying Burnout Paradise Remastered as a standout title in terms of audio experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Burnout Paradise Remastered runs smoothly across platforms, hitting a solid 60 FPS, with strong praise for PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch performances. Critics note the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X shine with 4K/60fps, but many feel the remaster lacks substantial upgrades, resembling a mere port. The Switch impresses despite hardware limits, though it faces minor issues like longer loading times. Overall, while the game performs well, it could use better graphical enhancements and stability, particularly on PS4 and Xbox One.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Burnout Paradise Remastered across various platforms, it is evident that the game generally runs smoothly, with most critics highlighting a solid framerate of 60 FPS. On the PlayStation 4, reviewers from 3DJuegos and Press Start Australia note the game’s smooth performance, with the latter emphasizing a mostly locked framerate. Eurogamer Italy and GameOver.gr also commend the stability and performance, with the PS4 Pro version supporting 4K/60fps. For Xbox One, critics like Destructoid and The Sydney Morning Herald praise the game’s sleek framerate and increased resolution, particularly on the Xbox One X, which runs at 4K/60fps. On the Nintendo Switch, the consensus is similarly positive, with multiple reviewers, including God is a Geek and Nintendo Insider, noting the game runs at a consistent 60 FPS in both handheld and docked modes, with no significant performance drops. Despite the overall positive sentiment, there are notable criticisms across platforms. On the PS4, several reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Vandal, express disappointment regarding the lack of substantial technical improvements beyond resolution enhancements, suggesting that the remaster feels more like a port. On Xbox One, Hobby Consolas raises concerns about stability issues, including crashes, which detracts from the overall experience. For the Nintendo Switch, while performance is generally praised, some critics, such as Impulsegamer and Trusted Reviews, point out limitations like longer loading times when changing vehicles and issues with dynamic resolution scaling, particularly during intense gameplay moments. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Burnout Paradise Remastered delivers a solid technical performance across all platforms, with a consistent 60 FPS being a common highlight. However, there is a shared sentiment that the remaster could have benefitted from more extensive graphical upgrades and technical enhancements, particularly on the PS4 and Xbox One. While the Nintendo Switch version impresses with its performance considering the hardware limitations, some critics still point out minor issues that affect the experience. In summary, while the remaster is well-executed in terms of framerate and stability, it leaves room for improvement in graphical fidelity and overall enhancements across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Burnout Paradise Remastered" receives mostly positive reviews for its engaging multiplayer and extensive DLC, offering plenty of replay value. However, some critics note the lack of new content and potential gameplay repetition may dampen long-term enjoyment, especially for returning players. It's a solid pick for newcomers but might not entice those familiar with the original.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Burnout Paradise Remastered" is largely positive among critics, highlighting the game's extensive content and engaging gameplay. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and GameSpew, emphasize the enjoyment derived from the online multiplayer modes, which allow for cooperative and competitive play, enhancing the game's longevity. Critics like Nintenderos and GameOver.gr point out the vast array of challenges, collectibles, and events that provide players with ample opportunities to engage with the game. The inclusion of all DLC, as noted by Impulsegamer and The Sydney Morning Herald, adds significant value, ensuring that players have a wealth of content to explore, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and returning fans. However, several critics also express concerns about certain aspects that may detract from the overall replay value. Xbox Achievements mentions that the remaster does not introduce any new content beyond visual enhancements, which may disappoint those who have already experienced the original game. Additionally, some reviewers, including COGconnected and GameSpew, note that the gameplay can become repetitive after extended play sessions, potentially limiting long-term engagement. The structure of online challenges, as highlighted by Giant Bomb, can also be cumbersome, particularly when playing with strangers, which might hinder the enjoyment of multiplayer experiences. The consensus among critics suggests that while "Burnout Paradise Remastered" offers a wealth of content and replayability, particularly through its online modes and extensive DLC, there are caveats regarding repetition and the absence of new features. Critics like Push Square and Areajugones underscore the game's potential for hours of fun, but they also acknowledge that players who have already experienced the original may find less incentive to revisit it. Overall, the game is seen as a solid choice for both new players and fans of the franchise, but the enjoyment may vary based on individual expectations and previous experiences with the title.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Burnout Paradise Remastered is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay and nostalgic appeal. Reviewers like Gamer.nl and GameSpew highlight the game’s unique blend of speed, excitement, and freedom, making it a highly enjoyable racing experience. The Digital Fix notes that while it may not feel like a modern 2018 title, it is still recommended for players seeking thrilling racing experiences. The game is also commended for its solid multiplayer features, with GameCritics and Game Revolution emphasizing the abundance of content that keeps players engaged. Critics like Nintendo Enthusiast and Noisy Pixel describe it as a must-play for racing fans, showcasing its strong open-world design and enjoyable mechanics. However, several reviewers point out significant drawbacks, particularly concerning its status as a remaster. Critics such as Vandal and Destructoid argue that the game falls short compared to modern titles, with some noting a lack of significant enhancements or updates since its original release. The high price point is a recurring concern, as mentioned by God is a Geek and Impulsegamer, who suggest that it may not be worth the investment for those who already own the original version. Additionally, Hardcore Gamer and TheSixthAxis highlight issues such as uninspired graphics and dated mechanics, which detract from the overall experience for some players. Despite the criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Burnout Paradise Remastered is a worthwhile experience, especially for newcomers to the franchise. Many reviewers, including Press Start Australia and Metro GameCentral, appreciate the nostalgic value and engaging gameplay, suggesting that it stands out among other racing games available today. While some critics advocate for waiting for a sale due to the high price, the game is generally recommended for its fun, chaotic racing and the thrill it brings, making it a solid choice for both fans of the original and new players alike.

TL;DR

Burnout Paradise Remastered receives mostly positive reviews for its thrilling gameplay and nostalgic charm, praised by critics like Gamer.nl and GameSpew. It's celebrated for its engaging open-world design and solid multiplayer features. However, some reviewers like Vandal and Destructoid lament its lack of modern enhancements and high price, suggesting it may not be worth it for original owners. Overall, it's deemed a fun experience for new players, though some recommend waiting for a sale.

MONSTER

Reviews

145 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Jul 27, 2020

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

Burnout Paradise Remastered on the Switch is a treat for both fans of the original and newcomers, offering a classic racing game experience with freedom and destruction.

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GameCritics

Nintendo Switch

Jul 29, 2020

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

The review praises Burnout Paradise as the king of open-world racers, highlighting its simple gameplay loop as its most effective aspect.

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Video Chums

PlayStation 4

Mar 9, 2018

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

The review concludes by stating that the Remastered version is worth getting to experience the near-perfect racing thrills again.

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PlayStation Country

PlayStation 4

Mar 26, 2018

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

Burnout Paradise Remastered focuses on speed, fun, and carnage, making it a great choice for fans of arcade racing games

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Noisy Pixel

Nintendo Switch

Jun 24, 2020

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

Burnout Paradise Remastered is described as a must-play game, even for those not familiar with the racing genre.

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Nintendo Enthusiast

Nintendo Switch

Jun 29, 2020

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

Burnout Paradise Remastered is praised as a strong open-world racing game that holds up well on the Switch. The reviewer recommends it to racing game fans, despite the higher price tag compared to other platforms.

Gamer.nl

Xbox One

Mar 16, 2018

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

Burnout Paradise Remastered is a highly enjoyable racing game that offers a unique blend of speed, excitement, and freedom. While it may not bring much new to the table for players who already own the Xbox 360 version, it is still a great experience for newcomers. The game's flaws, such as the lack of restart options and repetitive races, can be overlooked when considering the overall fun and thrill it provides.

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Worth Playing

Nintendo Switch

Jul 2, 2020

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

Burnout Paradise Remastered is praised for its gameplay mechanics, open-world design, solid visuals, and replay value, making it a classic in the racing game genre with a score of 8.5/10.

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GameOver.gr

PlayStation 4

Mar 24, 2018

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

Praised for its nostalgic appeal, solid arcade racing experience, and recommended for fans of the genre despite minor issues.

GameCritics

PlayStation 4

Apr 6, 2018

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

Burnout Paradise Remastered delivers the same content as the original title from 2008, meeting high standards set by Criterion Games. Despite some simplicity and repetition in the early stages, the game offers a nostalgic and enjoyable experience, especially in the online multiplayer mode.