A recent report reveals that 90% of gamers have experienced a remake or remaster

Solid Snake from the Metal Gear franchise is staring at the camera — Image credit: Konami

According to a new report, 90% of gamers on PCs and consoles have engaged with a remaster or remake in the past year.

The report, titled 'Remake vs Innovate: Is the past the future of gaming?', was released by MTM, a consultancy specializing in strategy and insights, on September 15, 2025.

MTM’s report delved into the feelings, conflicts, and financial effects that remade and remastered video games have on the industry, having gathered input from interviews with 1,500 active console and PC gamers in the United States and United Kingdom.

The report detailed that MTM defines remakes as comprehensive reimaginings with improved visuals, mechanics, and often storylines, whereas remasters are enhanced versions of the original that improve graphics, sound, and performance but leave the core gameplay intact.

The findings highlighted that 85% of those who played these newer versions in the last year had never played the original versions.

A significant interest in remakes and remasters was evident, with 76% of participants expressing enthusiasm about them.

Throughout 2025, several notable remakes and remasters have emerged, such as revamped editions of Tomb Raider 4-6, The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4, and The House of the Dead 2.

Additionally, other classic titles like Croc: Legend of the Gobbos, Gothic, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and Splinter Cell are scheduled for revival this year and beyond.

Many survey respondents mentioned that these refreshed versions provide a way to revisit the comforting and pleasant memories they associate with the original games.

Nevertheless, concerns were voiced by some about game developers potentially prioritizing these projects for easy returns, at the expense of creating innovative experiences that could advance the industry.

Martin Bradley, MTM's head of gaming, stated, "Our study exhibits the strong allure of remakes and remasters; however, studios must carefully balance this demand." He noted these contemporary versions often exceed their original releases in sales volume.

Bradley elaborated, "From a commercial standpoint across games and other entertainment sectors, the nostalgia trend is projected to persist through 2026 and beyond. Yet, gamers are aware that this focus could sideline novel content that offers unique stories and experiences."