Yes, you read it right; retro gaming is making a comeback, and it’s taking the gaming industry by storm. but what is retro gaming, and why retro gaming becoming more popular this happening?
I think there are a number of reasons:
- Retro gaming can be more affordable than AAA titles
- There is nostalgia for old games
- Classic games offer timeless gameplay
- Retro titles are more accessible
- The retro gaming community is more respectful
I’ll explain further below.
What is retro gaming?
When we speak of the term ‘retro gaming’, it takes us back to the bygone era of some of the best gaming experiences that we had as kids. Those golden days when the clunky cartridges were the only source of entertainment and we never had to worry about graphics, resolution, and frame rates. But who would have thought that in the year 2023, we would cherish and indulge ourselves in these games again?
We live in a world of dynamic and constantly evolving technology. With each passing day, companies launch new versions of hardware to match up to the latest game releases. In an age of virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and incredible, photo-realistic graphics, one would think that retro gaming is a thing of the past.
Surprisingly, it is anything but.
Why are old games so attractive decades later?
Retro gaming is a niche community of enthusiasts who thrive on vintage games, consoles, and gaming experiences that were part of the history of gaming.
You might know someone like this. It might even be you.
Enthusiasts are dedicated to game preservation; collecting, and playing classic video games, consoles, and peripherals that were popular in the late 70s, 80s, and early 90s. These retro gamers are not just in it for nostalgia; they believe that classic gaming is worth preserving, and it should be enjoyed by future generations.
This includes great titles, as well as those that were…. no so great.
A simpler side of gaming that resonates with people – the world of retro gaming.
So why is retro gaming making a comeback? Why are people all over the world embracing the classic gaming experience?
I think there are several reasons.
Retro gaming can be more affordable
One of the main reasons why retro gaming is making a comeback in 2023 is because it’s more affordable than the latest gaming consoles, which can cost thousands of dollars. The older consoles, such as Atari, Nintendo, and Sega, are available at a fraction of the cost of the latest hardware. Meanwhile, if you don’t have access to retro consoles, you can buy something like the Evercade EXP and get cartridges for it.
Moreover, the classic video games are available in used game stores or online marketplaces at reasonable prices that attract both retro gamers and newbies.
Nostalgia for retro gaming
For many, nostalgia is a powerful force that drives them to revisit their past and relive the memories. Retro gaming taps into this sentimentality and offers players an opportunity to relive the experience of playing their favorite games from their childhood.
For those who grew up in the 80s and 90s, these games represent a simpler time, and replaying them brings back cherished memories from their youth.
Retro gaming offers timeless gameplay
Unlike modern games, the gameplay of retro games was simple yet engaging. Most of the classic games of the past were challenging and required precise movements and timing, rather than just button mashing. These games were created to be played in short bursts and were designed to hold the attention of the players for hours.
The simplicity of retro gameplay still holds up, making classic games an attractive option for gamers who want to take a break from the overwhelming and complex games of today.
Retro games are more accessible
Retro games are easy to play and accessible to everyone. Everyone knows Mario, and can get to grips with the basic platform game Super Mario Bros. While modern games draw on developments in technology to create stunning new worlds, old school games were obviously limited by the hardware of the time.
Consequently, while some genres are non-existent or under-represented in retro terms, classic games are usually easier to get to grips with.
The accessibility of classic games has helped to drive their popularity, as they can be enjoyed by a broader audience than before.
Community support
The retro gaming community is a dedicated group of enthusiasts who are passionate about preserving the classic games that were part of the history of gaming. These communities have discord channels, online forums, tutorial videos, and sites that offer emulation software, making it easier for gamers to get started with retro gaming.
This valuable support has helped to drive the resurgence of classic games and consoles, as people are drawn to the camaraderie and collective passion of the retro gaming community.
Retro games will not die
The world of gaming has come a long way since the early days of Commodore, Atari, and Nintendo. The advances in technology have brought us closer to virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and other game-changing innovations. However, there remains a simpler side of gaming that resonates with people, and that is the world of retro gaming.
Not long ago, one of the biggest releases was a 26 year old Nintendo 64 game. GoldenEye 007 was re-released on Nintendo Switch and Xbox. Meanwhile, Evercade cartridge collections are entering the UK games charts.
The simplicity of retro gameplay still holds up, making old games an attractive option for gamers who want a break from overwhelming and complex modern games.
In the 2020s, retro gaming has made a comeback not just as a nostalgic experience, but as a community that cherishes the history of gaming. The affordability, simplicity, accessibility, and community support has helped to drive the resurgence of classic games and consoles, as people are drawn to the collective passion of the retro gaming community. The timeless gameplay of retro games has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed by players of all ages.
In a world of technological innovation, there remains an important place for classic gaming experiences. Retro gaming is making a comeback, and it’s taking the gaming industry by storm. At a time when AAA games studios are struggling to meet their own ambition and positing ever increasing price points, retro gaming is the ideal alternative.
What do you think? What is driving the desire for more and more retro gaming releases? Leave a comment with your thoughts.
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.
