Aug, 1 2023
The Matter of Cost Involved in Re-releasing Old Video Games
Have you ever wondered why your favourite childhood video games aren't up for grabs in a new, polished version for free? If you are like my better half Elsie, you might still have your old Super Nintendo or even an Atari gathering dust in the attic. Memories of wasting away balmy summer afternoons engrossed in Contra or Legend of Zelda may still bring a smile to your face. It sounds so enticing, right? The idea of having these old classics up on the digital platform without having to fork over any money? Undeniably it does! However, there is a lot more to this sphere than meets the eye. While you're sitting comfortably on the couch watching me play Mario under the supervision of our dog, Orion, and the cat, Moonbeam, let me take you on a journey to understand the implication of cost when it comes to re-releasing old video games.
License and Copyright: The Big Boys of the Gaming Industry
Ask anyone who has dipped their toes in the gaming industry, they will tell you that the issues of license and copyright are not something to be taken lightly. These are among the biggest obstacles when it comes to re-releasing older video games and sadly, they do not come free of charge. Remember those crazy afternoons when Elsie and I would compete in intense rounds of Street Fighter II? Well, the companies that hold the rights to these games are not like our Siberian Husky, Orion, who would give you his favourite toy for a rub behind the ears. These companies hold onto these rights like Moonbeam holds onto his favourite spot on the couch – with a fierceness that would scare away any possible intruders. Converting these old classics into a newer, better version requires permission from these companies and that, my friend, involves an astronomical cost.
Respecting the Sentiment: Nostalgia and Classic Video Games
I recall back in the day - Elsie and I would spend hours completely engrossed in a game, surrounded by our furry companions, just living in the moment. We cherished those moments, those games. We commemorated our victories, shared laughter and enjoyed the sense of contentment they brought us. Video games are like that worn-out, cozy sweater in your closet. You've worn it beyond its intended life, but can't seem to part ways with it simply because it holds an emotional value. Now, imagine all the work that goes into emphasising that emotional pitch while revamping and re-releasing older video games. Game producers must focus on encapsulating the essence and emotion within these games to bring the same feels back for players. Hence, it's a huge task that requires not just a lot of work, but also a lot of money.
Work Involved in Remastering and Upgrading Original Games
I may not be a game developer, but I believe that working on revamping old games to suit current standards can be as strenuous as trying to give Moonbeam a bath. The journey from concept to execution requires an inordinate amount of time, effort, and of course, money. Here's a little tip from someone who's held the joystick for quite some time now: playing a game is not as easy as it looks, and creating it, re-creating it, rather, is a magnanimous task. The intriguing graphics and captivating sound effects that we enjoy today are a result of tireless hours of coding and designing. The developers need to ensure the remastered game maintains the original charm while also meeting today's technological standards. Hence, making these gems available for free is a financial challenge most companies would strongly avoid.
While constantly harassed by Orion wanting to play fetch and Moonbeam desperately wanting to sleep in my lap, Elsie and I often find ourselves discussing our favourite video games. They are, after all, a cherished part of our past. But as we delve deeper into the concept of re-releasing these games, we realise it's not as straightforward as we might have thought. The process is not unlike an arduous journey that demands much more than just nostalgia. It requires resources, time, and funds. So, the fact that these games do come with a price tag seems justified. It may not be the news we would like as consumers and gaming enthusiasts, but it is something that we need to accept as a reality in the world of video gaming.