In a rather unexpected announcement, the OpenGOAL team has unveiled the complete PC port of Jak 3, marking the culmination of their extensive efforts to bring the beloved Jak and Daxter trilogy to PC. This release, which arrives without any hint of an April Fools’ joke, requires users to possess a legally-obtained copy of Jak 3, akin to the requirements of emulators or unofficial ports for other titles.
Enhanced Gaming Experience
What sets OpenGOAL apart is its ability to deliver a gaming experience that surpasses traditional emulation and even the original hardware. Players can expect a less resource-intensive operation, fewer bugs, and a plethora of configuration options, including exciting modding possibilities such as ultrawide support. Having utilized OpenGOAL to revisit the first two titles on my Steam Deck a few years back, I can attest to its seamless performance.
Interestingly, the completion of Jak 2 on OpenGOAL dates back to 2023. For those dedicated fans who are passionate about preserving Jak X: Combat Racing, hope remains alive. As for myself, I find myself yearning to dive back into Jak 3—these games hold a special place in my heart, characterized by a unique aesthetic and an unmistakable vibe that is hard to replicate.
While I had postponed my trilogy replay until the OpenGOAL team’s work reached its conclusion, I reflect on how well Jak and Daxter has aged. Jak 2, despite its reputation for being frustrating, still offers a whimsical world that is rich with charm. The game’s checkpoint system, however, feels like a scarcity of treasures, doling out checkpoints sparingly. I remain hopeful that Jak 3 will provide a smoother experience, though it has been 22 years since I last played it.
If you have your PS2 copy of Jak 2 at the ready, creating an OpenGOAL-compatible disk image is straightforward with most Blu-ray drives and utilities like MPF or ImgBurn, both of which come highly recommended by the PCSX2 emulator community. OpenGOAL’s website provides an installer and detailed instructions, including guidance for Steam Deck users.