Seems like they are new remasters.
Empire:
Empire features the top-10 hit, "Silent Lucidity," which was nominated for 2 Grammys. This version, newly remastered at Abbey Road Studios, brings together all the available recordings to narrate the story of this remarkable album. It also contains a DVD containing promotional videos and live performances. Features new sleeve notes by Alex Milas who spoke with Geoff Tate at length, discussing the making of the album and the concept behind it, and is housed in a 10″x10″ box.
Mindcrime:
Operation: Mindcrime was produced by Peter Collins and was recorded, mixed, and mastered digitally on a Sony 24-track digital tape machine. This new version was remastered at Abbey Road Studios and brings together all the available recordings. Housed in a 10″ x 10″ box, this is the final word on this exceptional album and contains a DVD of promotional videos & performances. The expanded booklet features new sleeve notes by Alex Milas who spoke with Geoff Tate about the making of the album.