What's Happening?
A study by Ampere Analysis has revealed that video game remakes have outperformed remasters in terms of consumer spending and player engagement. The research, covering data from January 2024 to September
2025, analyzed 42 re-releases, including 15 remakes and 27 remasters. Remakes generated 2.2 times more consumer spending than remasters. Notably, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered was an exception, achieving $180 million in consumer spending and 7 million monthly active users, surpassing other titles in the study.
Why It's Important?
The findings highlight the financial and engagement advantages of remakes over remasters, suggesting that consumers are willing to invest more in games that offer updated gameplay and graphics. This trend could influence game publishers to prioritize remakes over remasters, potentially reshaping strategies in the gaming industry. The success of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered also underscores the enduring appeal of popular IPs, which can drive significant consumer interest and spending even in remastered formats.
What's Next?
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, publishers may increasingly focus on developing remakes to capitalize on their higher consumer spending potential. Upcoming remakes, such as those for Halo: Combat Evolved and Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, will be closely watched to see if they follow the trend of higher engagement and spending. The industry will also need to address the challenges of balancing development costs and time with consumer expectations for modernized gameplay experiences.
