Argonaut Games Returns: Croc HD Remaster Announced for Current Consoles and PC

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Published on: August 28, 2024

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Argonaut Games, the pioneering British studio recognized for its groundbreaking work on Star Fox and the SNES Super FX chip with Nintendo, has officially announced its return to the video game industry.

This revival is headlined by a full remaster of the classic 3D platform adventure, Croc: Legend of the Gobbos, set to launch on current consoles—including the Nintendo Switch—and PC. Founded in 1982 by Jez San, Argonaut Games built a formidable reputation throughout the 1980s and 1990s for advancing 3D technology in gaming.

Its early successes included titles like Starglider before the landmark collaboration with Nintendo produced one of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System’s (SNES) most technologically advanced experiences, Star Fox, by utilizing the innovative Super FX chipset.

Argonaut’s expertise helped bring polygon-based graphics to mainstream audiences, redefining what console games could achieve. After parting ways with Nintendo, Argonaut made a name for itself with the release of Croc: Legend of the Gobbos in 1997.

Debuting on the PlayStation and the Sega Saturn, Croc was met with critical and commercial success and has since become a cult favorite among platforming enthusiasts.

Now, two decades after the original Argonaut Games closed its doors in 2004, the legendary developer is poised to re-enter the industry under the guidance of Jez San and industry veteran Gary Sheinwald, who now serves as Co-CEO. The Croc HD remaster will feature overhauled HD visuals, updated controls optimized for modern platforms—such as the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5—and the brand new 'Crocipedia.' This digital museum is described by Argonaut as 'an extensive and meticulously curated resource' containing original game design documents, concept art, animation tests, and interviews from the development team. In an exclusive statement, Jez San shared his enthusiasm for the company’s relaunch: 'It’s thrilling to see the Argonaut name return after two decades.

Our focus has always been on expanding the horizons of gaming, and I’m eager to witness how the new Argonaut Games will continue that legacy, starting with the Croc Legend of the Gobbos remaster.' Co-CEO Gary Sheinwald reflected on the studio's journey, saying, 'I worked closely with Jez on the original Starglider in 1986, so relaunching Argonaut Games brings my career full circle.

We’re excited about what’s ahead, and there are more exciting announcements coming soon.' Jez San also commented on the buzz that arose when news of 'Croc HD' surfaced prematurely last year: 'When I responded to James’ tweet, I didn’t anticipate it would create such a stir.

Within hours, the gaming community was abuzz with speculation.

Now, I’m just glad that I can finally say the project is official and move forward.' Internally, the early reveal was humorously dubbed 'The Naughty Tweet.' Sheinwald added, 'On the one hand, we were working in stealth and didn’t want to announce too early, but on the other hand, we hoped the world still wanted to play Croc.' Argonaut’s Co-CEO Mike Arkin said the overwhelmingly positive reception “validated our decision and energized the whole team.” As Argonaut Games returns to the spotlight, anticipation is running high for Croc HD and the studio’s next generation of projects.

Stay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding the Croc: Legend of the Gobbos remaster and other Argonaut developments as they happen.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo PlayStation Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Argonaut Games PC Xbox Switch Star Fox Super FX chip HD Remaster Jez San Croc Legend of the Gobbos Super FX Gary Sheinwald Starglider Saturn Argonaut

Star Fox Studio Argonaut Is Back, And It's Remastering Croc