Video games have been around for decades, and with each passing year, new titles are released, showcasing the latest technological advancements and pushing the limits of what can be achieved in the medium. However, while the industry is constantly evolving and expanding, there is also a trend of revisiting the past. Video game companies are releasing remasters and remakes of old games, reimagining and updating classic titles for modern audiences. In this article, we will investigate why this trend is so prevalent in the gaming industry and look at some instances of booming remakes.
The Power of Nostalgia
One of the primary reasons why video game companies release remasters and remakes is the power of nostalgia. Many gamers grew up playing classic titles, and revisiting those games can be a powerful experience. Nostalgia allows players to relive fond memories from their past, whether it be the excitement of playing a game for the first time or the sense of community that comes from discussing it with friends. For many gamers, playing a remastered or remade version of a beloved classic can be an emotional experience, and video game companies know this.
By releasing remasters and remakes, video game companies can tap into the emotional connection that players have with these classic titles. By updating the graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics, companies can provide players with a fresh experience that still feels familiar. For example, the remastered version of Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, released in 2017, allowed players to revisit the classic platformer with updated visuals and controls while still maintaining the spirit and charm of the original.
Increased Accessibility & Revenue
Another reason why video game companies release remasters and remakes is to make classic titles more accessible to modern audiences. As technology advances, older games can become difficult to play on modern hardware. For example, classic titles from the 80s and 90s were often designed to be played on CRT televisions and older consoles, which can be difficult to emulate on modern hardware. By releasing remasters and remakes, video game companies can ensure that classic titles can be played on modern systems, making them accessible to new audiences. Additionally, remasters and remakes often come with updated controls and interfaces, making them more user-friendly than the originals. This can be especially important for players who may have missed out on classic titles when they were originally released. For example, the remastered version of Shadow of the Colossus, released in 2018, provided updated controls that made the game easier to play for modern audiences.
Another reason why video game companies release remasters and remakes is to capitalize on the popularity of classic titles. Many classic games have achieved cult status, with dedicated fanbases that continue to play and celebrate their decades after their initial release. By releasing remasters and remakes, video game companies can tap into this existing popularity and capitalize on the nostalgia and excitement surrounding classic titles. For example, the remastered version of Resident Evil 2, released in 2019, capitalized on the popularity of the original game, which is widely considered one of the greatest survival horror titles of all time. By updating the graphics and gameplay mechanics, Capcom was able to provide players with a fresh experience that still maintained the spirit of the original game.
Examples of Successful Remakes
There have been many successful remakes and remasters in the gaming industry, each providing unique experiences for players. One of the most successful remakes in recent years is the aforementioned Resident Evil 2. It was a massive success. The remake featured updated graphics, new gameplay mechanics, and a fresh take on the classic story while still maintaining the horror and suspense that made the original game so beloved. The next one is Final Fantasy VII, one of the most cherished games of all time, and in 2020, Square Enix released a remake of the game for the PlayStation 4. The game received critical acclaim for its stunning visuals, updated combat system, and expanded story. Fans of the original game were thrilled with the remake, and it introduced a new generation of gamers to the world of Final Fantasy.
The original Link’s Awakening was released for the Game Boy in 1993 and is considered one of the best addition to the Zelda franchise. In 2019, Nintendo released a remake of the game for the Nintendo Switch, which featured updated graphics and gameplay mechanics while still retaining the charm and nostalgia of the original game. The remake was well-received by fans and critics alike and introduced a new generation of gamers to one of the most beloved games in the Zelda franchise.
These are just a few examples of successful remakes that have been released by video game companies in recent years. The success of these remakes proves that there is a demand for updated versions of classic games and that fans are willing to pay for them.
