The seminal platformer series Banjo-Kazooie has laid dormant for over a decade, having not gotten a new game since 2008. However, Banjo and Kazooie's appearance in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate may suggest that there's hope for the series to be revived. One fan has begun creating trailers that show what a remastered version of Banjo-Kazooie could look like.
YouTuber Project Dream states that they are a huge Banjo-Kazooie fan and that they've been wondering for years what a remaster of the original 1998 game would look like. Now, they've started putting together videos of that theoretical remaster using the original N64 geometry and high-resolution textures. The results appear to have gotten many other Banjo-Kazooie fans excited for a comeback.
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As of this writing, the channel contains four videos, one trailer for the theoretical 1998 Banjo-Kazooie remaster game and three trailers for the remastered versions of three iconic levels from the original game and its sequel. The levels in question are Jinjo Village, Rusty Bucket Bay, and Mad Monster Mansion, which could be considered one of the spookiest levels in a non-horror game. All three of these level exploration videos are incredibly detailed and showcase intricate environments, stunning textures, and complex puzzles.
The video dedicated to Rusty Bucket Bay is especially fascinating, as it combines unique textures together in a smooth and visually stunning remaster. The camera scans slowly over the level layout, allowing the viewer to begin planning out their approach even as they have the opportunity to appreciate Project Dream's hard work.
Players can observe the winding paths leading between platforms, the moving boat propellers, the towering rust-covered structures, and lots and lots of water. Project Dream also made sure to add Banjo's starting position on a high platform so that players can take that into account when making plans. He, like the rest of the level, has been boosted to high-definition and now looks like he's stepped out of a modern remake–or, given his lack of animation, like an action figure.
It appears that the videos have been well received by Banjo-Kazooie fans, with several who appear to have played the original game complimenting Project Dream's vision. Some users immediately began wishing for a full release with the updated graphics. Others, however, argue that the updated graphics have stripped the great classic game of its cartoony charm. One user even asked seriously if this was going to become a real project. It looks like Project Dream is just creating proof of concept videos, though they have expressed a wish for a real Banjo-Kazooie remaster to be released.