Remember the original Yooka-Laylee from 2017? After a rough launch and a fantastic 2.5D sequel, developer Playtonic returns to 3D platforming with Yooka-Replaylee.
Essentially Yooka-Laylee but good now, this heavily revised version of the retro-inspired collectathon reworks every element of the controversial platformer, featuring new controls, graphics, power-ups, and more.
Revealed during the Guerrilla Collective showcase, Yooka-Replaylee aims to make movement more fluid with tweaked platforming, new moves, and better animations to address the original title’s core issues.
Every aspect of the original game’s visuals has received a massive overhaul. Alongside obvious texture upgrades, there’s a gorgeous new lighting system that adds even more magic to Playtonic’s cartoon world.
In terms of new gameplay features, the still-creepy talking vending machine Vendi offers several new Tonics to add flair to your playthrough. These Tonics allow you to customize your playstyle as you hunt down collectibles.
Speaking of collectibles, a new form of collectible, Capital B Coins, has been added. Dropped by minions across the game world, these coins are now vital for acquiring tonics.
Finally, Playtonic is adding a brand-new orchestral version of the original soundtrack, bringing even more whimsy to the title. With Grant Kirkhope’s cutesy tunes already the highlight of the game, the orchestral versions are extremely exciting.
For fans of classic 3D platformers like Banjo-Kazooie and Donkey Kong 64, Yooka-Laylee was already a decent adventure. However, with significant improvements across the board, this new revival could be the great spiritual successor it aimed to be in 2017.
Currently, there’s no release date for Yooka-Replaylee.