New Study Reveals 90% of Gamers Recently Played a Remake or Remaster

Gaming Industry Sees Massive Engagement with Remakes and Remasters

A recent study by consulting firm MTM has shed light on the booming trend of video game remakes and remasters, revealing that a vast majority of gamers have engaged with these updated titles. The findings, published in their report titled "Remakes vs. Innovation: Is the Past the Future of Gaming?", offer a comprehensive look at player preferences and concerns.

To gather their insights, MTM surveyed 1,500 console and PC gamers across the United States and the United Kingdom. For the purpose of the study, remasters were defined as enhanced versions of older games that maintain the core gameplay, while remakes were considered complete re-imaginings built from the ground up.

Key Findings from the MTM Report:

• A striking 90% of players reported trying at least one remaster or remake within the last 12 months.
• Of those who played an updated title, 85% had never played the original version of the game.
• A significant 76% of respondents found these re-releases to be "appealing."
• Many surveyed players stated that remakes and remasters evoke positive emotions and fond memories of their initial experiences with the source material.

While the appeal of these updated games is clear, the study also uncovered a notable concern among some players. There's a growing worry that publishers might be taking the easy route, monetizing nostalgia at the expense of developing fresh ideas and innovative new games.

Martin Bradley, MTM's Head of Gaming, commented on the delicate balance facing the industry:

"Our report shows that remakes and remasters are hugely popular, but it’s not easy for studios to strike a balance. Many of these games sell far better than original releases. From a commercial perspective, nostalgia in games and other media is a trend that will remain through 2026 and beyond, but gamers understand that remakes and remasters can be detrimental to creativity, potentially leading to a loss of new stories and experiences."

What This Means for Gamers

The MTM study clearly demonstrates the immense commercial success and widespread player acceptance of remakes and remasters. For many, these titles offer a chance to experience beloved classics with modern graphics and gameplay, or to discover iconic games for the first time. However, the underlying concern about a potential decline in truly original games highlights a critical point for the industry: how to capitalize on the proven demand for nostalgia without stifling the creativity that drives the medium forward. As players continue to embrace updated classics, the conversation around balancing past successes with future innovations will only grow more important.