Ultima VII: Revisited is a fan-made enhancement project aimed at modernizing and improving the classic RPG Ultima VII: The Black Gate and its expansion, Forge of Virtue. It utilizes the Exult engine to deliver a smoother, more consistent experience with higher resolutions, bug fixes, quality-of-life improvements, and optional restored content. The project focuses on refining the existing game rather than radically altering it, aiming to preserve the original feel while making it more accessible and enjoyable for modern players. It features enhanced visuals, UI improvements, modernized controls, and various tweaks to gameplay mechanics.
The ambitious project known as Ultima VII: Revisited endeavors to meticulously reconstruct and significantly enhance the classic role-playing game Ultima VII: The Black Gate and its expansion, Forge of Virtue, utilizing the more advanced Dungeon Siege engine. This comprehensive undertaking goes far beyond a simple graphical update, aiming to breathe new life into Britannia while preserving the spirit and narrative of the original. The developers articulate a multi-faceted approach to this revitalization.
Visually, the game is being completely reimagined with high-resolution 3D graphics, replacing the antiquated 2D sprites and environments. This includes not only updated character models and landscapes but also re-created interiors, offering players a far more immersive and detailed experience of the world. Furthermore, the project aims to modernize the game's user interface, streamlining interactions and improving overall usability for a contemporary audience, all while retaining the essence of Ultima VII's distinctive interface.
Beyond the graphical overhaul, Ultima VII: Revisited seeks to refine and expand upon the existing gameplay mechanics. The developers are exploring enhancements to the combat system, potentially incorporating elements from the Dungeon Siege engine to create more dynamic and engaging encounters. They also discuss improvements to the game's AI, aiming to create more believable and reactive non-player characters that contribute to a more lively and dynamic world. These changes are intended to modernize the gameplay experience without compromising the core mechanics that defined the original Ultima VII.
The scope of the project extends to encompassing the Forge of Virtue expansion, seamlessly integrating it into the main game world. This allows players to experience the complete Ultima VII narrative within a single, cohesive environment. The developers emphasize a commitment to remaining faithful to the original storyline and lore, ensuring that this revisited version respects the established canon of the Ultima universe.
However, Ultima VII: Revisited is not simply a recreation; it aspires to enhance and expand upon the original game in meaningful ways. While specifics remain somewhat ambiguous, the developers allude to the possibility of incorporating new content and features, potentially including additional quests, areas to explore, and interactions with the world. These additions are intended to enrich the game experience without disrupting the established narrative and atmosphere. In essence, Ultima VII: Revisited strives to be the definitive edition of this classic RPG, modernizing its presentation and gameplay while staying true to the spirit and legacy of the original. It presents a tantalizing prospect for both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike, offering the opportunity to experience a beloved classic in a whole new light.
Summary of Comments ( 20 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43150217
Hacker News users discussing the Ultima VII: Revisited project generally expressed enthusiasm and nostalgia for the original game. Several commenters praised the improvements offered by the project, particularly the bug fixes, enhanced UI, and higher resolution. Some discussed the technical challenges involved in such an undertaking, with one user detailing the process of reverse-engineering the game's engine. A few expressed skepticism about playing older RPGs, questioning if they hold up to modern standards, but were countered by others who argued for the enduring quality of Ultima VII's story and gameplay. The conversation also touched upon the limitations of the project, including the inability to improve the game's dated pathfinding. Overall, the comments reflect a positive reception of the revisited project, viewed as a valuable way to experience a classic RPG.
The Hacker News post titled "Ultima VII: Revisited" links to a website showcasing a project aiming to recreate Ultima VII in a modernized engine. The comments section features a lively discussion with various perspectives on the project and the original game.
Several commenters express excitement and nostalgia for Ultima VII, recalling it as a formative gaming experience. They praise its open world, interactivity, and depth, with some highlighting specific memories and details they cherish about the game. This nostalgia fuels a strong interest in the "Revisited" project, with commenters expressing hope that it will capture the essence of the original while improving upon its dated aspects.
Some commenters delve into technical details, discussing the challenges involved in recreating such a complex game. They mention the intricacies of the original's scripting system and the difficulty of balancing faithfulness to the original with the desire for modern improvements. Specific technical approaches taken by the "Revisited" project are also mentioned, along with some speculation on the potential benefits and drawbacks of these choices.
A few comments explore the historical significance of Ultima VII, discussing its impact on the RPG genre and its influence on subsequent games. They analyze elements like the game's sandbox nature, its character interaction system, and its approach to storytelling, contrasting these features with those of other classic RPGs.
Several commenters raise practical questions about the project, such as its release date, target platforms, and the involvement of the original creators. Others express concerns about potential legal issues surrounding the use of Ultima VII's intellectual property.
Some users discuss alternative approaches to experiencing Ultima VII today, including using emulators and fan patches. They compare these methods with the "Revisited" project, highlighting the trade-offs between authenticity, convenience, and modern enhancements.
A few commenters express skepticism about the project's feasibility and question whether it will live up to the high expectations set by the original game. They caution against over-hyping the project and encourage a wait-and-see approach.
Finally, some comments offer constructive feedback and suggestions to the project's developers, ranging from specific gameplay mechanics to technical implementation details. They offer their insights and expertise in an attempt to contribute to the project's success.