Popular Video Games Remade for Smartphones

The smartphones are invading everything, including video games. And this is probably why video games are invading right back. The following are our favourite smartphone versions of video game franchises we all love.

Max Payne Mobile

It’s been more than a decade since the release of the original Max Payne on the PC when publisher Rockstar Games decided to bring the iconic shooter into smartphones. The result is Max Payne Mobile, which is essentially the same game with a few new tricks: HD graphics, customisable touch screen controls and support for Rockstar Social Club. Not a touch screen fan? Play it with a USB controller.

Final Fantasy

The original 1987 Final Fantasy is back. Again. This time, the RPG classic lands on iOS and Android. It’s still mostly the same Final Fantasy we all love, but with better visuals, touch screen controls and a more functional interface. Its US$8.99 price tag is a bit steep though, just like other Square Enix games on smartphones.

Metal Gear Solid Touch

Crazy about Metal Gear? Then you should have a gander at Metal Gear Solid Touch for the iOS. Think of it as Duck Hunt and Metal Gear having a baby. Apparently, series creator Hideo Kojima decided that a simpler game would be more suitable for the platform’s touch screen controls.

The Sims 3

EA’s life simulator is everywhere. Now there’s an Android, iOS and even Windows Phone version. While it won’t supplant the regular version, The Sims 3 on smartphones is a fun, compact experience. It comes with a similar Wishes system, and is also open-ended just like the Mac and Windows editions.

Resident Evil 4 Mobile Edition

Capcom’s Resident Evil 4 Mobile Edition isn’t a port—think of it as a “lite” version of the GameCube/PS2/Wii classic. Impressively, it still plays the same as the original (including the seemingly dodgy weapon seller) and also comes with large, open levels. The most noteworthy concession, aside from the visuals and controls, is the use of stills instead of CG cutscenes.

Street Fighter IV

Prepare to get your mind utterly blown. Street Fighter IV is no cheap smartphone cash-in. It’s a lovingly crafted port of the original arcade version. And while it has been watered down in some aspects (e.g. only eight fighters, fewer control buttons), the iOS version is a worthy SFIV instalment. The visuals are astounding, while the touch screen controls are surprisingly accurate. Wait till you try multiplayer.

Grand Theft Auto III

Grand Theft Auto III never fails to leave you in awe. It caused your jaw to slack when playing it on the PS2 back in 2001, and it will again leave you mesmerised when you experience it in smaller screens today. The smartphone port isn’t perfect thanks to the wonky touch controls, but the game’s overall awesomeness makes up for that.

NBA Jam

It’s mostly the same NBA Jam we all love, but with unexpectedly good touch screen controls and no multiplayer. Everything else is here: the outrageous dunks, the arcade gameplay, the Democrats and Republicans, and Tim Kitzrow. You’ll miss playing with a friend, but the smartphone version of NBA Jam is just too good to miss.

Mass Effect Infiltrator

If you’ve always wondered what playing Mass Effect would be like without Commander Shepard, now’s your chance. Mass Effect Infiltrator is a third-person cover-based shooter minus the familiar Mass Effect role-playing elements. It’s visually slick, but can be a tad difficult at times because of the touch controls.

Assassin’s Creed – Altaïr’s Chronicles

This Assassin’s Creed adventure isn’t exactly new; it’s actually a port of a 2008 Nintendo DS game, except the smartphone version has better visuals and audio, and is actually cheaper than its predecessor. Of course, Altaïr’s Chronicles is no match for its console brethren, but the game is still a blast to play.

About the Author:

This guest post was written by Michael. Michael enjoys video games on consoles and mobile phones. He has been reviewing games for videogames.com.au for many years.

Originally posted on October 15, 2012 @ 8:24 am