Modern game makers have the benefit of being able to produce games for highly advanced systems with powerful processors and GPUs, as well as improved audio, online connectivity, and a host of other features.

But, newer doesn’t always mean better – take Sony’s Concord as an example. It cost a reported $400m but was taken offline two weeks after its launch, and all sold copies were refunded. But could Sony have learned anything from previous generations of game makers?

Retro Gaming Popularity

Retro gaming has a hardcore following, and when rumors of remastered or remade games like Gears of War hit forums, there is a massive scramble for information.

Similarly, the Triple Diamond review at Adventure Gamers shows that even legacy slot machines have a huge following. Players don’t necessarily want advanced bonus games, complicated features, and the latest 3D graphics. Instead, according to online slot expert, many players prefer old-school casino games.

While some of this is down to nostalgia, that doesn’t explain the fact that these games are popular with the latest generations of gamers, too, who have no first-hand experience of the original titles.

A growing number of modern console games are remakes of legacy games. Franchises like Gears of War and Final Fantasy are reborn and enjoy critical and commercial success. Emulators enable players to pick up games from the last century and play them on modern platforms exactly as they played originally.

And platforms like the Xbox and PlayStation make hefty sales from their classic titles, which allow players to enjoy games from the very first iterations of consoles.

1. Gameplay Matters

Back before deep learning super sampling, or even 3D rendering existed, players flocked to arcades to play Pac-Man. By today’s standards, it had poor graphics. The player took control of a circle running around a 2D maze, collecting dots.

Its gameplay was incredibly simple, but that was part of its appeal. It took a couple of minutes before new players mastered the game’s mechanics, but after two or three levels, the game’s challenge increased.

The increased challenge came from faster enemies, more frantic beeps, and the desire for occasional power-ups. It was a phenomenon and, compared to today’s games, it showed that gameplay is the most important factor.

2. Better Graphics Doesn’t Always Mean A Better Game

Another popular legacy game is Tetris. The original game used seven shapes, all of which consisted of four blocks.

The aim was to create complete rows, which would remove the rows from the playing area. That was the entire premise, and not only was the game popular, but it was one of the reasons for the success of the handheld console, effectively helping launch the Game Boy’s popularity. Studios have attempted to update and remake the game using improved graphics and audio, but the original is still the best game.

The quality of graphics was restricted by the technology, but the games were still popular, showing that the best graphics don’t necessarily yield the best game.

3. Immersive Gameplay

Going back to Pac-Man, one of the reasons for its popularity was its immersion. You didn’t believe you were Pac-Man, but the use of a black background and bright colours, flashing symbols, and ever-increasing beeps drew players in.

The game became more frantic as you progressed, and this gave a sense of urgency that further enhanced immersion. Immersion matters, which is why modern gamers appreciate good audio and graphics, as they facilitate a more immersive experience without breaking from the gameplay.

4. Multiplayer Features Attract Players

Pong, from Atari, is one of the best-known examples of a home computer game. It launched in 1972 and saw two players compete against one another.

Players controlled paddles to hit a ball back and forth and to prevent the other player from scoring. It was the digital equivalent of air hockey, and it was so popular that it led to a Pong Doubles, which enabled two teams of two players to compete against one another.

Many of today’s most popular games are those that have multiplayer game variants, including EA FC (formerly FIFA), Call of Duty, and Fortnite.