Gaming: What Is An Enhanced Edition?

On gaming platforms like Steam or the Epic Games Store, some video games are described as Enhanced Edition. But what does this actually mean? Here's the answer.

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What is an Enhanced Edition of a game? We'll explain it to you here. | © EarlyGame / Valve

Several months or even years after their original release, some games get sold in a so-called "Enhanced Edition". An Enhanced Edition of a game is a special release or version of a video game that offers some slight extras compared to the original. We've got the details for you.

Enhanced Edition Games Explained

Enhanced Editions are a type of re-release of a video game that goes beyond the original experience. These versions are designed to offer players an improved and enriched gaming experience compared to the base game.

One of the key features of Enhanced Editions usally includes enhanced graphics and visuals. Developers often invest in updating the game's graphics to take advantage of more powerful hardware, resulting in higher resolution, sharper textures, improved lighting, and overall better visual fidelity. This can breathe new life into older titles and make them more visually appealing to both new and returning players.

Moreover, Enhanced Editions may include additional content, such as extra missions, characters, or storylines. This bonus content can provide players with fresh challenges and expand upon the game's narrative, enticing players to revisit the world they love. In contrast to a Definitive Edition, an Enhanced Edition does not necessarily include every bit additional content (like DLCs) that has ever been released for the game.

Another common aspect of Enhanced Editions is improved gameplay mechanics and performance. Developers often fine-tune controls, fix bugs, and optimize performance to provide a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.

So, when you encounter a game labeled as an "Enhanced Edition," you can expect improved graphics, additional content, and enhanced gameplay. These editions aim to offer a more refined and feature-rich version of the original game, making them a great choice for both newcomers and fans looking to rediscover a beloved title. However, be aware that there is no official definition for what an Enhanced of Definitive Edition must include, which is why we recommend you to always read a game's description text before buying it.

Kim Berkemeyer

Ever since he got his first Game Boy in the late 90s, Kim was into video games. Besides many other games, he has a fable for Zelda and a love-hate relationship to World of Warcraft. Apart from work, you will find him playing football, watching sci-fi-shows, enjoying video games or just hanging around with friends....