Why Remakes Have Ruled

Remakes have ruled this generation for a reason. Would you like to know why? Because remakes are not only a guaranteed sure-fire hit in an industry where costs are spiralling on new games and they’re too much of a risk to take a chance on when it comes to new IP. We know that stifles creativity. However, this generation’s remakes have had a great level of success because publishers know that you’re going to buy them.

Take Silent Hill 2 as an example and the success that had. With Konami incredibly happy. You can expect more of that.

When people talk about GTA VI potentially being able to get away with a £100 release price, to be honest, I think that’s the only game series that can get away with that kind of pricing. I do not think it would be wise if everyone just started to set their games at that price. Consumers will not have it. Nor are they having it now. Because consumers are not only waiting for sales and being more price-conscious. But also, this is just where the industry is right now as a whole.

Of course, everyone wants a new IP. However, if nobody buys it. That becomes a problem. So the risks are not worth taking. That’s why remakes are thriving and doing so incredibly well. That’s also why the likes of Max Payne will find its audience as well. It’s not about the studio per se. It’s about recreating worlds in a new way that are sure going to sell.

If we want new IP to sell as well. The industry has to not only increase its creative side but also it’s quality side as well. Look at the success of Astro Bot, for example. When you look at creativity, that game has it in abundance. I actually think we’re starting to see a reset in the industry where eastern developers are having a great reception as well. That can only be a good thing.

Also though, there is no doubt in my mind that ultimately creating a game has its risks and is a very difficult process. That’s why remakes and sequels have been the norm, and the industry has stagnated to a certain degree.

What do I see happening in the future? I think a lot of publishers will look to dip into their back catalogues again. I think they’ll find success in reinventing games that were always popular in the first place. Yes, it’s safe, but also they sell, and that revenue will allow more new IP to be potentially spawned elsewhere.