As one of the most iconic gaming developers of all time, Apogee Software has a long-standing and well-deserved reputation for creating classic computer, console and mobile games. In 1994, Apogee established itself as a publisher, empowering other creators and aggressively acquiring licenses for titles from other developers. As we celebrate the 26th anniversary of Apogee’s founding, it only seems natural to honor them by taking a look back at some of their greatest accomplishments and remastering them for modern audiences.
Keen-eyed gamers may recognize the word “Apogee” from the Commander Keen series, the first endeavour of Apogee Software which has since become one of the company’s most iconic and beloved creations. This series of 2D platformers set in outer space left a huge impression on early gaming culture, making Commander Keen an ideal candidate for a remaster. With enhanced visuals, optimized controls, and an updated soundtrack, a modern re-release of Commander Keen would be sure to make waves in the gaming community.
Raptor: Call of the Shadows is another classic from the early days of Apogee that should be considered for remastering. This top-down gunfire shooter was one of the first games to depict 4-way scrolling levels and detailed sprites, pushing the boundaries of 256-color graphics. Transforming this game into a more modern experience could involve three-dimensional graphics, full-motion videos, and a remastered version of the classic heavy metal soundtrack.
The last must-have remaster from Apogee’s back-catalog is Rise of the Triad, an old-school first-person shooter featuring a group of paramilitary operatives known as H.U.N.T. (High-Risk United Nations Taskforce). This game was an early example of the shoot-em-up genre and was released alongside Doom in 1994. Nowadays, a remaster of Rise of the Triad could feature fully interactive environments, realistic physics, and dynamic character animations to bring the game into the modern era.
Remastering these three classic titles from Apogee Software for a new generation of gamers would be an opportunity to celebrate a milestone in gaming history. With its rich history and timeless games, Apogee is well-deserving of the recognition and appreciation it has been receiving as of late. A re-release of these games becomes more than just an opportunity to play beloved titles; it is a testament to the cherished legacy of Apogee Software.
