Beyond Good & Evil - 20th Anniversary Edition delivers a single-player action-adventure experience centered on exploration and investigation across the planet Hillys. Players control Jade, an action reporter equipped with a daï-jo fighting stick and a camera, as she uncovers details about the DomZ alien attacks while interacting with companions such as her adoptive uncle Pey'j and the character Double H.
Gameplay
The core loop involves free movement through varied locations on Hillys, where combat against creatures of different sizes mixes with infiltration of restricted zones and environmental puzzle solving. Jade's camera serves multiple purposes, from documenting evidence to capturing images of local wildlife that can be exchanged for resources at the Science Museum. Travel between islands relies on a hovercraft that players upgrade through parts purchased at shops, and the experience incorporates several mini-games along with hovercraft races against other pilots. Controls have been refined for smoother handling, and quality-of-life additions such as autosave and cutscene skipping reduce interruptions during longer sessions.
Stealth sections require careful navigation past guards, while combat emphasizes staff combos and charged attacks. Later acquisitions like the Gyrodisk Glove extend options for ranged strikes and puzzle interactions. The overall pace balances open exploration with directed objectives, keeping sessions focused yet varied across the campaign length.
Game Modes
The primary mode follows the original campaign structure, guiding players through the main story and side activities on Hillys. A dedicated treasure hunt mode adds new collectible rewards scattered across the planet, encouraging further exploration tied to revelations about Jade's background. Speedrun mode provides a separate timer-based challenge that tests efficiency in completing objectives, complete with updated achievements for tracking progress. The anniversary gallery functions as an accessible mode for viewing development materials and hidden details from the game's history.
New Features in the Anniversary Edition
Visual and audio upgrades support resolutions up to 4K at 60 frames per second on compatible hardware, with a remastered soundtrack and enhanced overall presentation. Cross-save functionality allows progress transfer between supported platforms, while the improved graphics maintain the original bright aesthetic without major alterations. These changes make the title more accessible for new players and returning fans alike.
Is It Worth Playing?
This edition preserves the original game's charm through its character interactions, soundtrack, and blend of mechanics while adding practical conveniences that address common complaints from earlier versions. The campaign offers a self-contained story with memorable moments, and the new modes provide replay value for those interested in completionist challenges or efficient runs. Players who enjoy action-adventure titles with exploration, light stealth, and photography elements will find a polished package that runs smoothly on PC. The updates make it the clearest way to experience the full adventure today, particularly for anyone seeking a concise yet engaging single-player journey without ongoing seasonal content.
