Fan recreates Dino Crisis in Unreal Engine 5; demo available

The universe of dinosaurs in games is about to come to life again thanks to the talent and dedication of a fan. Stefano Cagnania solo developer, is recreating the classic survival horror game Dino Crisis using the powerful graphics engine Unreal Engine 5.

The project, called “Project Crisis”, already has a Playable demo available for downloadallowing fans to experience firsthand this modern reimagining of one of PlayStation 1’s most beloved titles.

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Dino Crisis has potential for a remake

The Project Crisis demo offers players the opportunity to explore detailed environments and face frighteningly realistic dinosaurs, all with visuals enhanced by cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5 technology.

Although it is important to remember that this is a project developed by just one person, which naturally limits its scope compared to big-budget productions, the demo already demonstrates the impressive potential of an updated version of Dino Crisis. Check out the video below:

While fans eagerly await an official remake, CAPCOM, the game’s original developer, has remained silent about the future of the franchise. In 2020, Shinji Mikami, producer and director of the original Dino Crisis, even commented that the success of the Monster Hunter series reduced the need for a new title in the dinosaur franchise. However, this statement caused surprise among fans, as the two series have completely different proposals.

Despite the lack of official news, there are reasons to remain hopeful. CAPCOM has recently demonstrated its willingness to revive dormant franchises, as it did with the Dead Rising remake. This fuels the expectation that Dino Crisis could receive similar treatment in the future.

For those nostalgic who want to revisit the original classic, there’s good news: the PlayStation 1 version of Dino Crisis will be added to the PlayStation Plus catalog of classic games later this month, along with another iconic title, Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain. This is an excellent opportunity for players to experience or remember the game that inspired Project Crisis.

About the original game

Originally released in 1999, Dino Crisis won over gamers with its unique blend of survival horror and dinosaurs. The story follows Regina, a special agent sent to investigate a secret research facility on a remote island.

What should be a routine mission turns into a nightmare when the team discovers that the island is infested with dinosaurs resurrected by genetic experiments.

The game stood out for its tense atmosphere, challenging puzzles and exciting combat against prehistoric predators. Dino Crisis also innovated by using real-time 3D graphics, in contrast to the pre-rendered scenarios common in survival horror games at the time.

The success of Dino Crisis led to the release of two direct sequels and a spin-off, cementing its place in video game history. While the franchise has been dormant for years, continued fan interest, evidenced by projects like the Unreal Engine 5 remake, demonstrates the lasting impact and untapped potential of this iconic series.

And you? Would you like to play an official remake of this franchise?