Review: MediEvil (PS4)

I did not spend a significant amount of time with MediEvil when it was initially released on the Playstation in 1998. While the adventures of Sir Daniel Fortesque possessed a certain nerdy charm, and the humor exhibited a dry, British wit, I never fully connected with the game, despite its two sequels. This is notable, as the title falls within my preferred genre—platform-action-adventure—a genre exemplified by titles like Ratchet & Clank, which received a remaster approaching remake quality.

Now, approximately 21 years after its initial release on Sony’s first console, Sir Daniel Fortesque rises again (if you’ll pardon the expression), presented in stunning 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (on PS4 Pro). The developers at Other Ocean Emeryville have seized this opportunity to record new dialogue and address some of the game’s previously problematic mechanical elements. However, these improvements are not comprehensive. MediEvil retains its original charm, but also maintains some of its frustrating and unpolished aspects.

The gameplay unfolds in a third-person perspective, requiring players to navigate environments using combat, platforming, and puzzle-solving. While the game may not represent the pinnacle of game design or narrative depth, it offers relatively straightforward and lighthearted entertainment, often eliciting amusement from its humorous writing. The difficulty is generally balanced, and players can revisit earlier levels, such as Dan’s Crypt, to acquire experience and replenish resources as needed. The PS4 version of MediEvil also features a selection of trophies to unlock.

As anticipated, the presentation has been significantly enhanced. As previously mentioned, the audio has been improved, and the graphical fidelity is markedly different. At times, the aesthetic resembled a playable rendition of The Nightmare Before Christmas. The 4K resolution on PS4 Pro provides exceptional clarity, and the environments are more visually appealing and vibrant. The antagonists also appear more menacing and contemporary. This level of improvement is, of course, expected given the passage of 21 years and three console generations. While the game generally maintains a 60 fps frame rate, performance can dip in graphically intensive areas with numerous moving elements, such as Scarecrow Fields.

Notable improvements include the intuitive and logical decision to allow quick switching between two primary weapons with a single button press—a welcome change from the original, which required frequent menu navigation during certain boss encounters. Additionally, specific gameplay elements, such as the level featuring the Ant Queen, have been improved with better lighting and a more refined final boss fight. However, as is often the case with remasters rather than full remakes, certain aspects have been preserved to maintain the original’s… ahem…”unique charm,” resulting in some retained shortcomings. The camera and combat do not feel as precise or satisfying as one might expect from a game in this genre. Platforming, while not overly difficult, can feel cumbersome, and battles can occasionally feel somewhat erratic. Precise control over attacks and, in particular, blocking with the shield can be elusive.

Despite its flaws, MediEvil is likely to provide a nostalgic experience for fans of the original, and its reduced price point feels appropriate. It is plausible that we will see the second game and MediEvil: Resurrection on PS4 in the future. For genre enthusiasts, myself included, it warrants consideration despite its shortcomings, even for those who have not experienced it previously (or consider downloading the demo). Others may prefer to wait for its inclusion on PS Plus or PS Now.