By definition, remakes are boring. Take an old game, apply a fresh coat of paint, and maybe--just maybe--throw in a new feature or level or two. Adding in new content is, after all, not part of the process. Not that it matters much in the case of WipEout HD where revamping the tracks of old with gorgeous new visuals and enhanced online gameplay transforms the racing experience.

Here you'll get eight revamped tracks: Vineta K, Chenghou Project, Sebenco Climb, Sol 2, Ubermall, Anulpa Pass, Moa Therma, and Metropia. Increasing the resolution to a nice, crisp 1080p has done wonders for the presentation. Far from a simple upscaling, the game receives new life in high definition with stunning graphics and vivid new color. Zipping through the underwater tunnels of Vineta K, for instance, showcases the huge differences between remake and original—once you've seen it, you won't want to go back to earlier installments. It's one of the most visually impressive titles not just on PlayStation Network, but PlayStation 3 as a whole.

Of course, graphics aren't reason enough to spend money downloading a game. WipEout HD straddles the fine line between faith remake and overhaul by keeping the overall design intact, but adding new features and options to freshen up the experience. High definition graphics are a part of that, as well as a new weapon, expanded online multiplayer, and control options. You don't have to worry about the core of the game because that's untouched. The track layouts remain the same, all of the music has been imported from WipEout Pulse, and you can even join up with the same teams from that game as well.

There's a full single player campaign to complete that takes you through each of the venues. New vehicles, tracks, and other goodies are unlocked only via the campaign. Considering the wide range of vehicles with distinct characteristics, it's worth tackling the campaign events. Five racing events keep things interesting: single race, tournament, time trial, speed lap, and zone. You usually have a choice among two or three events at any point during the campaign, so you won't be forced into competing in a string of frustratingly tough races.

Time trials, speed laps, and zone competitions obviously don't involve weaponry; however, you'll get plenty of opportunity to fire off in regular races. Series standbys including missiles, rockets, and mines return. A new leech beam, which launches a tractor beam onto your nearest competitor, allows you to slingshot forward to quickly gain ground. Boost pads definitely help in speeding forward to catch up with the competition, as well as boost power-ups that pop up in place of offensive weaponry. Support for a full eight players online ensures plenty of chance to blast buddies with game's range of weapons and items.