The Killzone-series was a striking flagship for the PlayStation and was long regarded as one of the strongest competitors to Microsoft's Halo. With its dark atmosphere and gripping shooter action, it inspired a loyal fan base. But after the launch title Killzone: Shadow Fall for the PS4, the series has taken a longer break. However, many fans are still hoping for a remaster, remake or even a new game. In an interview, the composer of the music for KillzoneJoris de Man, commented on this hope, addressing both wishes and concerns.
A wish for a return: Killzone as a remaster?
Joris de Man, who is responsible for the iconic sounds of Killzone spoke about the future of the series in an interview with VideoGamer. The occasion was the PlayStation: The Concert Tourwhich uses music from well-known PlayStation titles such as Horizon and The Last of Us was presented live. When asked whether there could be a return of the popular series, de Man initially expressed cautious optimism: "I know there have been petitions for it. I hope it happens at some point because I think the Killzone series is a very iconic franchise." But while his words indicate a certain longing for a revival, he is also aware of the challenges.
De Man explainedthat a remaster of the original trilogy would be an extremely interesting way of Killzone-games to modern consoles. While the games are available via PlayStation Plus streaming, they do not offer the quality one would expect today - especially in terms of resolution, frame rate and input lag. A remaster would allow players to experience the classics in a contemporary form while enjoying the original experience without limitations. "I think a remaster would be very successful"says de Man. The popularity of collections such as the Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection shows that demand for upgraded versions of older titles remains high.
A new Killzone - a risky idea?
While the idea of a remaster sounds promising, de Man has doubts as to whether a completely new Killzone-game would find the same resonance as before. "I don't know if a new game would have the same success. People may have moved on and are now looking for something different"said the composer. In recent years, the gaming landscape has changed enormously. Gamers today may be used to faster, more action-oriented shooters that rely less on the complex, dark storytelling and deep atmosphere of the Killzone-series.
De It is believed that modern gamers may prefer a less serious and faster-paced experience - in contrast to the more gravitational and somber world of Killzone. Perhaps the expectations are simply no longer compatible with the original direction of the game. "Sometimes I get the feeling that players are looking for something loose and fast"de Man continues. In this respect, it could be difficult to create a new game that takes up the spirit of the old series and at the same time fulfills modern requirements.
The true value of Killzone: a part of PlayStation history
Regardless of whether a remaster or a new game will see the light of day, it remains Killzone an important part of PlayStation history. The series has set standards not only with its technical innovations, but also with its impressive world and atmospheric storytelling. Even if a new game fails to materialize, the Killzone-experience in a certain way - not only in the hearts of old fans, but also in modern echoes, such as the in games like Astro Bot are to be foundwhich are loving tributes to PlayStation history.
Perhaps it is precisely this nostalgia that makes a remaster collection of the original Killzone-trilogy so enticing. Such a move would allow both old and new players alike to experience the classics in their full glory, continuing the legacy of Killzone to keep it alive. Even if the chances of a new game are perhaps not the best, the potential for a return of the series as a remaster not only remains, but could actually pave the way for a new appreciation of this once great brand.
Hopes raised recently the cooperation between Sony and People Can Flywho apparently want to bring back an existing PlayStation brand. Killzone and Socom are among those under discussion.