Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE

FATAL FRAME II: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE improves on a cult classic in so many ways. Although one poorly thought out decision holds it back, this remains one of the best examples of its genre.

A strong setting and atmosphere provide genuine creeps and a tale that is engaging, though for me the combat is a weak spot in an otherwise enjoyable experience.

Fatal Frame II Remake is a solid update to one of, if not the scariest game ever created. The new features are a welcome addition, even with its drawbacks. I still want the same treatment for the first and third games respectively, but this is a good start. Just make sure to tone down the reaching mechanic and please make them 60fps out of the gate. This series was the best sleeper horror series during the PS2 era, and I would love for players today to experience the original trilogy in all of its glory.

Even after more than 20 years Fatal Frame 2 still offers a surprisingly fresh take on combat as well as a very creepy and dense atmosphere. This is paired with a very strong and emotional story about twin sisters that are lost in a forsaken village deep in the Japanese woods. Unfortunately this remake runs at only 30FPS on every console it will be available on which gets in the way of having fun. Pair that with a lack of genuine horror moments, a lot of predictable jump scares and obnoxious film grain and Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE becomes a diamond in the rough for fans of the genre only.

Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake delivers a tense and atmospheric survival horror experience with rich folklore, immersive sound design, and a compelling story. While the remake updates visuals and expands content, clunky controls, outdated backtracking, and occasional design frustrations prevent it from fully capturing the original’s mastery.