There have been many attempts to re-release and remaster GoldenEye 007 since its release in 1997, most notably the canceled 2008 Xbox Live Arcade remaster of the game that was reportedly only two months away from release before it was unfortunately canned due to licensing issues between Nintendo, Microsoft, and James Bond film studio MGM. Surprisingly, Xbox 360 modders were able to access one of the final versions of the canceled Xbox Live Arcade release in February 2021 which boasted upscaled HD visuals, 60 frames-per-second gameplay, reworked controls, and more.
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Just a few months ago however, in October 2021, Nintendo requested that the game be reclassified in Germany for an official release since it was banned in the country at the time of its 1997 Nintendo 64 release. This, along with the recent launch of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, which included emulated Nintendo 64 games, sent fans speculating as to whether the developer was planning to bring back GoldenEye 007.
This seems to be the case, as now over 50 achievements have appeared on Xbox Live for GoldenEye 007 for the Xbox One, indicating that MGM, Nintendo, and Microsoft have come to an agreement and a re-release of one of the most influential shooters of all time is imminent. Better yet, given the multiple partnerships between the companies through titles like Minecraft and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, it seems likely that it will arrive on Xbox One and Nintendo Switch Online. Of course, it’s possible that this leaked achievement list means nothing, and so fans should keep their expectations in check just in case.
Many have begun to note that 2022 marks the 25th anniversary of GoldenEye 007 and the 60th anniversary of the James Bond franchise. Given MGM’s renewed interest in the James Bond video game franchise with the announcement of IO Interactive’s upcoming original James Bond game, it seems likely that the company is planning not only a GoldenEye 007 remaster, but hopefully some re-releases of other beloved Bond games such as James Bond 007: Nightfire and The World Is Not Enough.
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