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MONSTER

Lunar Remastered Collection

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Lunar Remastered Collection
Item: Lunar Remastered Collection
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableApr 18, 2025

PlatformPC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

DeveloperGungHo

Overview

Embark on thrilling adventures within the enchanting worlds of LUNAR: Silver Star Story Complete and LUNAR 2: Eternal Blue Complete! These two cherished JRPGs have delighted gamers for generations. Now, in this definitive remastered edition, experience enhanced graphics, audio, and quality-of-life improvements that make the journey even more magical!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Lunar Remastered Collection's story is praised for its classic hero's journey and strong character arcs, resonating well with nostalgic fans. Critics celebrate its emotional depth and narrative charm; however, some find the stories outdated and clichéd, lacking the engagement needed for modern audiences. Overall, it's a mixed reception: a beloved classic for fans, but potentially underwhelming for newcomers seeking fresh storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of the Lunar Remastered Collection is largely positive, with many critics praising the classic hero's journey and the engaging narratives that both games offer. Reviewers like Cubed3 and Nintendo Insider highlight the well-told stories of Alex and Hiro, emphasizing character development and the charm of the narratives. Critics such as Digitally Downloaded and Shacknews appreciate the epic themes involving gods and adventure, noting that the writing quality stands out even decades after their original release. Furthermore, the emotional depth and memorable characters are frequently mentioned, with SpazioGames and Final Weapon underscoring the emotional resonance that the characters' journeys evoke. However, there is a notable contingent of critics who express concerns about the stories feeling outdated or clichéd. Gamepressure and CGMagazine point out that while the narratives may have been engaging in the 90s, they struggle to resonate with modern audiences, describing them as somewhat flat or contrived. Critics like XboxEra criticize the first game for being boring and lacking character development, while others such as COGconnected mention that the plots can feel stock standard and broad, potentially alienating new players. This sentiment is echoed by INVEN, who acknowledges the charm of the stories but also notes that they may feel predictable and formulaic to some. In summary, the critics present a mixed but generally favorable view of the Lunar Remastered Collection's story. While many appreciate the nostalgic charm and classic RPG elements, as highlighted by reviewers like GamingTrend and Tech-Gaming, others caution that the narratives may not hold up as well against contemporary storytelling standards. The consensus suggests that the collection offers a comforting and familiar experience for fans of classic RPGs, but may not fully engage a new audience looking for deeper and more innovative narratives.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Lunar Remastered Collection impresses with nostalgic JRPG mechanics and strategic turn-based combat, appealing to fans with quality-of-life improvements like faster animations and no random encounters. However, its simplicity and linearity may bore modern players, with complaints about repetitive gameplay and outdated mechanics. Overall, it's a mixed bag—great for nostalgic fans but potentially lacking for those seeking deeper, innovative experiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of the Lunar Remastered Collection has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its adherence to traditional JRPG mechanics that evoke nostalgia for fans of the genre. Reviewers like Cubed3 and GamingTrend highlight the strategic elements of turn-based combat, emphasizing the importance of party positioning and resource management. The remaster has introduced quality-of-life improvements such as inventory management, sped-up animations, and auto-battle options, which have been praised by critics like Shacknews and Nintendo Life for making the experience more accessible to newcomers. Furthermore, the absence of random encounters, noted by Inverse and Hey Poor Player, enhances immersion and allows players to prepare for battles, contributing to an overall engaging gameplay experience. However, the gameplay also faces criticism for its simplicity and potential repetitiveness. Critics such as Gamepressure and Noisy Pixel express concerns that the combat can become monotonous, with some players feeling that the mechanics lack depth compared to modern RPGs. The linear narrative structure and limited exploration options are noted by CGMagazine and This Is Game, which may not resonate well with younger players seeking more dynamic gameplay experiences. Additionally, while quality-of-life improvements have been implemented, some reviewers, including Push Square and Final Weapon, argue that issues like slow pacing and grinding remain prevalent, detracting from the overall enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed but generally favorable view of the Lunar Remastered Collection's gameplay. While many appreciate the nostalgic elements and strategic combat, there is a shared sentiment that the mechanics may feel dated and simplistic, particularly for those accustomed to more complex modern RPGs. Critics like Nintendo Insider and Vandal acknowledge the charm of the traditional JRPG format while also recognizing the limitations it imposes on gameplay depth. Ultimately, the remaster successfully appeals to fans of the original games while introducing enhancements that improve accessibility, yet it may not fully satisfy players looking for innovative gameplay experiences.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Lunar Remastered Collection is praised for its vibrant HD pixel art and expressive animations, successfully blending nostalgia with modern design, especially in cutscenes. However, some critics argue the visual upgrades are minimal and plagued by technical flaws, leading to a mixed reception. While many fans enjoy the balance of Classic and Remastered modes, newcomers might find the enhancements fall short of expectations. Overall, it appeals more to long-time fans than to those seeking a major graphical overhaul.

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 overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of the Lunar Remastered Collection is largely positive, with many critics praising the enhancements made to the original titles. Reviewers such as Cubed3 and Digitally Downloaded highlight the high-quality pixel art and expressive sprite animations, noting that the remaster retains the charm of the original while adding vibrant, HD re-drawn art that appeals to modern audiences. Gamepressure and Nintendo Insider commend the stunning visual upgrades, particularly the hand-drawn animated cutscenes and upscaled anime scenes, which evoke nostalgia while looking great on contemporary displays. Critics like CGMagazine and Final Weapon also appreciate the charming sprite graphics and the smooth transitions between gameplay and cutscenes, indicating that the remaster successfully enhances the visual experience while preserving the essence of the originals. However, not all feedback is entirely favorable, as several critics point out various shortcomings in the remaster's visual design. GamingTrend and Multiplayer.it express concerns about the outdated aesthetic, suggesting that while some improvements have been made, they are often minimal and may not satisfy players seeking a more significant overhaul. Issues with distracting post-processing effects and jarring transitions between aspect ratios were noted by Shacknews and Noisy Pixel, indicating that technical flaws detract from the overall experience. Additionally, critics like SpazioGames and Vandal argue that the visual enhancements are modest, and some players may find them barely noticeable, which could lead to disappointment for those expecting a more substantial visual upgrade. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Lunar Remastered Collection strikes a balance between nostalgia and modern appeal, though opinions vary on the effectiveness of the visual improvements. While many reviewers, such as Nintendo Life and Tech-Gaming, appreciate the options for Classic and Remastered modes that enhance the original look, others like Gamer.no and ZTGD point out that the enhancements are subtle and may not meet the expectations of all players. The remaster is generally seen as a respectful tribute to the original games, but the varying degrees of satisfaction with the visual upgrades suggest that it may resonate more with long-time fans than with newcomers seeking cutting-edge graphics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics generally praise the Lunar Remastered Collection's improved sound quality and nostalgic music, especially Noriyuki Iwadare's compositions. The new voice acting adds emotional depth, but mixed reviews highlight issues with its quality and the absence of original English performances, leaving some fans disappointed. While the remaster honors its legacy, it may not fully satisfy all long-time fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the sound design and music of the Lunar Remastered Collection reveal a generally positive sentiment, particularly towards the music and the efforts made in voice acting. Many reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and Nintendo Insider, highlight the remaster's ability to retain the charm of the original soundtracks while enhancing audio quality. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Shacknews appreciate the new cast of voice actors, noting that they capture the essence of the original performances, which adds emotional depth to the storytelling. The music composed by Noriyuki Iwadare is frequently praised, with critics like Noisy Pixel and TheSixthAxis emphasizing its role in enhancing the nostalgic feel of the game. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the new voice acting and the absence of the original English voice performances. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport express disappointment with the mixed quality of the new voice acting, particularly in Eternal Blue, where the voice direction feels off. Critics like COGconnected and Final Weapon mention that while some tracks are memorable, others can be repetitive, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, the lack of an option to switch to the original English voice acting, as pointed out by NintendoWorldReport, is seen as a significant oversight that may alienate long-time fans of the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the remaster successfully enhances the audio experience through improved sound quality and music, the new voice acting remains a contentious issue. Many reviewers appreciate the nostalgic elements and the quality of the music, with critics like Game8 and Tech-Gaming noting the emotional impact of the remastered soundtrack. However, the mixed reception of the new voice performances and the absence of original options leave some fans feeling nostalgic for the past. The remaster is seen as a commendable effort that modernizes the classic while attempting to honor its legacy, but it may not fully satisfy all fans of the original games.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in the Lunar Remastered Collection is praised for modernizing the audio experience while preserving the original's charm, with many new performances enhancing storytelling. However, criticisms arise over inconsistencies and a loss of the original's energy, as fans express nostalgia for the original cast. Overall, the remaster strikes a balance between honoring the past and embracing the new, but reactions remain mixed among critics and fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in the Lunar Remastered Collection has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its commitment to modernizing the audio experience while honoring the original's charm. Reviewers like Cubed3 and Digitally Downloaded highlight the preservation of witty dialogue and significant voice material from the original localization, which has been well-received. Critics such as Shacknews and SpazioGames commend the new voice performances for maintaining a connection to the original cast while providing a fresh take that enhances the overall storytelling. Additionally, the remaster's inclusion of new voice acting for the anime cutscenes, as noted by Inverse and Multiplayer.it, has been praised for its quality and effectiveness, contributing positively to the remastered experience. However, not all feedback is favorable, as several critics express concerns about the new voice acting's inconsistency and the loss of some of the original's charm. Nintendo Life points out that some characters feel wooden or miscast, particularly in Eternal Blue, while others, like Gamepressure, mention that the new performances may lack the over-the-top energy that fans loved about the originals. Critics such as Tech-Gaming and ZTGD also note that the absence of the original voice cast is a significant drawback, with some reviews indicating that the new performances may not resonate as well with long-time fans of the series. This sentiment is echoed by NintendoWorldReport, which expresses a desire for an option to switch between the original and new voiceovers, highlighting the nostalgia factor. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed but generally favorable sentiment towards the voice acting in the Lunar Remastered Collection. While many appreciate the modernization and quality of the new performances, there is a palpable sense of nostalgia for the original voice cast, which some players feel has not been fully recaptured. Critics like Worth Playing and CGMagazine acknowledge that while the new voice acting enhances character depth and storytelling, it may not completely satisfy those who hold the original performances in high regard. Ultimately, the remaster appears to strike a balance between honoring the past and embracing modernity, though the reception of the new voice acting remains a nuanced topic among fans and critics alike.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Lunar Remastered Collection delivers mixed technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch version shines with smooth gameplay and quality-of-life upgrades but suffers from visual glitches. The PS4 offers a seamless experience, though it does face occasional crashes. PC players enjoy stability but miss modern conveniences like auto-saving. Overall, while the remaster enhances nostalgia with improvements, it still has notable flaws that need addressing for a more polished experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of the Lunar Remastered Collection varies across platforms, with each receiving a mix of positive feedback from critics. On the Nintendo Switch, several reviewers, including Digitally Downloaded and Nintendo Insider, praised the remaster for running smoothly and offering quality-of-life improvements such as battle speed-up options and the ability to switch between original and remastered versions. Critics like Multiplayer.it and TheSixthAxis noted adequate performance and stability, highlighting that the remaster, while basic, is effective in enhancing the gameplay experience. On the PS4, the majority of critics, such as CGMagazine and RPG Fan, reported a seamless experience with no significant technical issues, benefiting from faster loading times and improved inventory management. Similarly, PC players, as noted by Digital Chumps and INVEN, experienced stable performance with modernized features, including shared save files and smooth gameplay. However, there are notable technical issues reported across platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like GamingTrend and Shacknews pointed out visual problems such as shimmering and pixel artifacts, along with slow movement speed in dungeons. While Nintendo Life and Noisy Pixel acknowledged a generally stable performance, they also mentioned areas for improvement, particularly in gameplay mechanics and outdated UI. On the PS4, Final Weapon raised concerns about crashes and frame drops in specific scenarios, which detracts from the overall experience, despite other reviewers like Hey Poor Player and PSX Brasil highlighting solid performance. On PC, while most critics found the remaster stable, some, including Siliconera and This Is Game, noted lingering technical issues from the original versions and a lack of modern conveniences like auto-saving, which could frustrate players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the Lunar Remastered Collection performs well across all platforms, it is not without its flaws. The Nintendo Switch version is generally stable but suffers from visual inconsistencies and some outdated mechanics. The PS4 version is praised for its smooth performance, yet it faces issues with crashes in certain areas, while the PC version is stable but has some outdated UI elements and lacks modern features. Critics agree that the remaster offers a nostalgic experience enhanced by quality-of-life improvements, but there are still areas that require attention for a more polished and modern gaming experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Lunar Remastered Collection garners positive reviews from fans for its nostalgic value and dual modes (Classic and Remastered), enhancing replayability. However, critics warn that newcomers might find the experience dated, with limited new content and a linear gameplay style that could deter multiple playthroughs. While die-hard fans may relish revisiting these classic JRPGs, others may hesitate without significant upgrades, potentially waiting for discounts before purchasing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of the Lunar Remastered Collection reflect a generally positive sentiment, particularly among fans of the original titles. Critics like Cubed3 and Shacknews highlight the substantial content offered by the collection, which includes two extensive JRPGs that provide varied adventures. The ability to switch between Classic and Remastered modes, as noted by Shacknews and GameBlast, is seen as a significant enhancement, allowing players to experience the games in different ways and adding depth to replayability. Additionally, the nostalgic charm of the games is emphasized by critics such as Nintendo Life and Gaming Age, who suggest that the engaging stories and characters encourage players to revisit the titles, especially for those with fond memories of the originals. However, there are notable concerns regarding the replay value, particularly for new players or those unfamiliar with the series. Critics like Gamepressure and Nintendo Insider express that the experience may feel dated compared to modern RPGs, which could limit its appeal to newcomers. The lack of significant new content or quality-of-life improvements, as pointed out by Multiplayer.it and Noisy Pixel, may also deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Furthermore, the linearity of the gameplay and the grinding nature of combat, mentioned by critics such as Push Square and This Is Game, could make replaying less enticing for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate the nostalgic value and those who find the replay value limited due to the dated gameplay and lack of new features. While fans of the genre, as noted by Vandal and ZTGD, may find significant replay value in the collection, others, particularly newcomers, may struggle to find enough incentive to replay the games. The collection is recommended for its nostalgic experience and the inclusion of both remastered and classic versions, but the absence of substantial enhancements may leave some players waiting for discounts before diving in.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the Lunar Remastered Collection is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its nostalgic appeal and the successful preservation of the charm found in the original games. Reviewers like Cubed3 and Inverse highlight the collection's ability to engage both longtime fans and newcomers, emphasizing its straightforward approach and engaging narratives. Critics such as Shacknews and CGMagazine commend the remaster for its beautiful graphics and modern enhancements, which help to make the classic JRPG experience more accessible. Overall, the collection is seen as a commendable revival of beloved titles, successfully blending nostalgia with modern gaming sensibilities. However, the remaster is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including Gamepressure and Multiplayer.it, point out that the collection suffers from outdated storylines and repetitive gameplay that may not resonate with new audiences. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and Push Square note that while the remaster captures the essence of the originals, it ultimately falls short in terms of missing content and quality-of-life improvements that could have enhanced the experience. The lack of innovation and some technical shortcomings, as mentioned by critics like Final Weapon and SpazioGames, further contribute to a mixed reception regarding the remaster's execution. The overall consensus among critics is that the Lunar Remastered Collection is a nostalgic tribute that successfully appeals to fans of classic JRPGs while providing a relatively solid experience for newcomers. While many reviewers, such as Forbes and Gaming Age, recommend the collection for its charm and engaging stories, they also acknowledge that it may not fully meet the expectations set by modern remasters. Critics like COGconnected and This Is Game emphasize that while the collection is enjoyable, its simplicity and some dated mechanics may deter new players. Ultimately, the collection is seen as a worthwhile experience for those who appreciate classic RPGs, but it leaves room for improvement in terms of innovation and modern enhancements.

TL;DR

The Lunar Remastered Collection garners mostly positive reviews for its nostalgic charm and accessibility, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers. Critics praise its beautiful graphics and engaging narratives, but note issues like outdated storylines, repetitive gameplay, and a lack of innovation. While it’s a solid tribute to classic JRPGs, it falls short of modern remaster expectations, highlighting room for improvement in content and quality-of-life enhancements.

MONSTER

Reviews

68 reviews found

Inverse

Nintendo Switch

Apr 15, 2025

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

The Lunar Remastered Collection successfully retains the charm of the original games while providing a definitive version for both newcomers and fans. It balances nostalgia with modern accessibility.

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Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Apr 17, 2025

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

Lunar Remastered Collection is praised as a fantastic compilation of classic RPGs, appealing to both newcomers and veterans despite some minor changes. It is highly recommended for fans of the genre.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 4

Apr 14, 2025

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

The Lunar Remastered Collection successfully maintains the spirit of the originals while offering minor improvements, making it a worthwhile experience for fans and newcomers alike.

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Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Apr 15, 2025

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Lunar Remastered Collection is a commendable revival of classic JRPGs that have aged well, offering both nostalgia and modern enhancements.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 4

Apr 14, 2025

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Lunar Remastered Collection is a worthy remaster for fans of the original games, offering a nostalgic experience with modern enhancements. It's recommended for those who appreciate classic JRPGs.

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Digital Chumps

May 6, 2025

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Lunar Remastered Collection is a nostalgic and enjoyable return to classic RPGs, reminding players of the charm and quality of the original Lunar games while providing modern enhancements.

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Tech-Gaming

Apr 16, 2025

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

LUNAR Remastered Collection is a significant anthology for JRPG fans, preserving classic titles while offering modern enhancements, despite some criticisms regarding voice acting.

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Noisy Pixel

Nintendo Switch

Apr 14, 2025

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

The Lunar Remastered Collection is a heartfelt throwback that successfully brings classic JRPGs to modern platforms, appealing to fans despite some dated elements.

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GamingTrend

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2025

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

The Lunar Remastered Collection is a faithful update that enhances playability, despite some shortcomings in visual design and technical performance.

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Game8

Apr 25, 2025

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

LUNAR Remastered Collection is a polished and nostalgic experience that successfully blends classic charm with modern improvements, making it a great entry point for JRPG fans.

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