Both Baten Kaitos Gamecube Games are Getting Remastered

Improves Visuals, Enables Cutscene Skipping, Auto Saves, and More

Baten Kaitos was a unique release during a time when most of the complex JRPGs lived on the PS2 which had entire shelf-fulls of adventures to explore. It was a game that unfortunately couldn’t create enough momentum to develop into the franchise it was reportedly planned to be, resulting in two games exclusive to the GameCube and repeated failed efforts to get more games or keep the series alive through collaborations. This created a game beloved by those who played it but one that was pretty mysterious for those who hadn’t. Either way, in a move that keeps the game from being locked to the oft-adored purple box, it was surprising and exciting to learn via a retro-focused Nintendo Direct that both Baten Kaitos games are getting an HD remaster for Nintendo Switch.

Further clarification was provided on the official Bandai Namco website through a simple Q&A. Both Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean of 2003 and the prequel Baten Kaitos Origins that released in 2006 will be available as a package titled Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster for Nintendo Switch this summer. That title very well could change to avoid confusion regarding the timeline of the games and there wasn’t any word on when or if the remasters might come to other platforms. As for what the remaster entails, the game will feature improved graphics, usability, and quality-of-life updates. Judging by the trailer, the game looks incredibly crisp and it was revealed that the UI, character models and objects on the map have been improved. The frame rate was also stabilized to 30fps but what really stands out is the ability to turn off encounters, auto-battle, auto-save, and skip cutscenes which will undoubtedly quicken the game’s notoriously hefty speedruns and make the game far more approachable.

All in all, this remaster serves as another fantastic game getting a new modern way to play which is always great for game preservation. Many games were made to live well beyond their initial release window which arguably improved their quality and longevity, especially for those that enjoy exploring a console’s library indefinitely. It is fantastic to see Baten Kaitos again.

Learn more about Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster on the Nintendo eShop Listing or the official website.