Yesterday we received word from Famitsu that a remake of the original Bionic Commando was coming to the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade this Spring. Now, Capcom has officially unveiled the remake.

The remake, titled Bionic Commando Rearmed, is a 3D remake of the original game on a 2D playing field a la Mega Man Maverick Hunter X. You could call it a 2.5D platformer.

Rearmed features all-new modes such as the 2-player co-op play, smarter enemy AI, new bionic arm abilities, new weapons, bigger bosses and online rankings. Additionally, the game will sport connectivity with the upcoming Bionic Commando sequel, offering unlockable content and in-game hints.

Stockholm, Sweden – 17 January, 2008 – Capcom®, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced Bionic Commando™ Rearmed, a makeover of the classic 8-bit game originally released 20 years ago. Bionic Commando Rearmed will be available for digital download from Xbox LIVE® Arcade, PlayStation® Network and PC this spring. This announcement follows the news that Capcom will be releasing an all new next-generation sequel to Bionic Commando™ on Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Sony Computer Entertainment’s PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) and PC platforms.

Bionic Commando Rearmed sees a return of the intense 2D side-scrolling, shooting and grappling action from the much-loved 1988 Bionic Commando on the Nintendo Entertainment System. Bionic Commando Rearmed brings the amazing gameplay up to date with stunning new visuals, new weapons, online rankings, a reworked musical score and the addition of a 2-player co-op mode. The title will also provide cross-game interoperability, as completing parts of Bionic Commando Rearmed will unlock new content and provide secret insight into characters and plot of the brand new Bionic Commando sequel.

“The release of Bionic Commando Rearmed allows us to deliver to fans of the original game a remake they have been clamouring for, whilst also introducing the series to a whole new audience,” commented Ben Judd, Producer of both the Bionic Commando projects. “And with GRIN taking care of development we can ensure that there is real consistency across both the Bionic Commando titles.

Bionic Commando Rearmed will contain the following features

Classic Bionic Commando gameplay focused around the use of the bionic grappling arm
2-player co-op mode
Total modern visual revamp, including dynamic shadows, particle effects and environmental damage
Reworking of musical score
Cross-game interoperability – complete specific parts of Bionic Commando Rearmed to unlock new content and hints for the Bionic Commando sequel
In-game art designed by one of Capcom’s most talented artists, Toshiaki Mori

More screens are available at IGN.

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