Games of the Year

RPGFan Games of the Year 2021: Best Remake or Re-Release

GOTY 2021 Remake Re-Release NieR Replicant

Winner: NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139…

NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139… is an impressive new version of Yoko Taro’s classic, a game that proves that you can uplift even the most basic game design through beautiful aesthetics and writing, concepts, and characters that touch upon complex universal themes. The game approaches difficult topics such as the inherent struggles of living and our often fruitless quests to find meaning in existence with an artisan’s grace, intertwining these themes within the game’s mechanics and world. Replicant refines the combat, controls, and visual fidelity. It also adds brand new content to make NieR feel even more complete than ever. After NieR: Automata‘s success, this re-release brings a whole new audience and critical appreciation to this game which has long-deserved a second chance.

by Adam Arter


Runner-Up: Mass Effect: Legendary Edition

When they first came out, the Mass Effect trilogy was an incredible gaming experience. But the recent re-release, titled Mass Effect: Legendary Edition, is easily the definitive way to play these games, with remastered graphics and all DLC included, even story content from the first game that PlayStation owners hadn’t been able to play before. If you haven’t yet played Commander Shepard’s epic journey, Legendary Edition is well worth the trip! This version doesn’t just offer an opportunity for newcomers either, as returning Mass Effect players will no doubt find something to appreciate all over again playing through BioWare’s endearing space opera epic.

by Audra Bowling


Readers’ Choice: Best Remake or Re-Release

Winner: NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139…

Runner-Up: Mass Effect: Legendary Edition

Adam Arter

Adam Arter

A writer, marketer, stealth expert and third-rate scholar from the UK who loves to write about how stories and mechanics intersect in games, especially in RPGs!