Since the release and subsequent success of the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, many have expected publisher Activision to continue breathing new life into classic games. Fan favourite Spyro the Dragon has been pegged as next in line, which might no longer be a pipe dream thanks to sources close to the project confirming a March announcement for a remaster containing the first three games.
The unnamed sources close to Kotaku claim that the announcement in March would be followed by a full release in the third quarter of this year. While readers are urged to take this information with a pinch of salt until official confirmation, Kotaku’s track record with leaks like this certainly help the rumours hold weight.
Spyro the Dragon’s remastered trilogy is set to include Spyro the Dragon, Ripto's Rage!, and Year of the Dragon, all of which are expected to feature the same extensive overhauls as the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy. This means new assets, lighting, animations, cinematics and soundtrack, alongside new features such as a reworked saving system to improve accessibility.
Upon its March announcement, the remaster will be announced for PS4 and PS4 Pro, however this is noted to be a one-year timed exclusivity before reaching other platforms. Interestingly, the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy has the same deal, meaning it could well be coming to Xbox One and perhaps even PC later this year.
There are many reasons to buy into Spyro getting a remaster. First of all, it is approaching Spyro the Dragon‘s 20th anniversary this September, making it the prime time for a re-release. Secondly, Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy Vicarious Visions hasn’t shied away from teasing Spyro in its previous remaster. As showcased by YouTuber ‘ThornsofSerenity’, the Spyro demo code was recognised when input on the Crash Bandicoot Warped menu, linking the two titles.
Of course, it’s still worth dialling down hopes until confirmation comes from official sources.
KitGuru Says: Then again, my hopes are already high so what am I saying? I grew up with Spyro the Dragon and have a larger connection to it than Crash, so I would consider this pretty much a day-one purchase for me. So long as it doesn’t redesign Spyro with the Skylanders look, that is. Are you excited at the idea of jumping back into Spyro’s world?