The decision process that parses games into “ones that will get made” and the opposite of that isn’t exactly what you’d call transparent at the best of times. And while this CVG interview with Frank Gibeau doesn’t exactly change anything in that department, it does give us a glimpse of some of the factors involved.
It’s the same thing with the old Bullfrog IPs like Dungeon Keeper, Populous, Powermonger, Magic Carpet, I can go on. So we do look at that stuff and are very cognisant of our past. “The key thing for us is, if we do bring [any of those] back, the game has got to be good. I don’t know about you but when I look back at GoldenEye, I think of it as this amazing game and then you go and play it and are like, ‘Oh. Really?’.”
Evaluating the Potential of Classic IPs
EA isn’t a company anyone can accuse of relying on past successes and neglecting new IP, but they don’t miss the chance to wring every last penny out of a franchise either. It just might be possible to take them at their word just this once. The process of evaluating whether to revive a classic IP involves several layers of scrutiny. For instance, the market demand for nostalgic games has seen a resurgence with the success of remakes and remasters like Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy and Spyro Reignited Trilogy. These successes indicate that there is a viable market for well-executed revivals.
Moreover, the technological advancements in gaming allow developers to reimagine these classics with modern graphics and gameplay mechanics, making them appealing to both old fans and new players. For example, the remake of Resident Evil 2 was not just a graphical upgrade but a complete overhaul that introduced new gameplay elements while staying true to the original’s essence.
The Challenges of Reviving Classic Games
However, reviving a classic game is not without its challenges. One of the primary concerns is meeting the high expectations of the original fanbase while also attracting new players. This balancing act requires a deep understanding of what made the original game special and how those elements can be enhanced without losing their core appeal. For instance, when Square Enix decided to remake Final Fantasy VII, they faced the monumental task of updating a beloved classic while preserving its iconic moments and characters. The result was a game that both honored its legacy and introduced innovative gameplay mechanics.
Another challenge is the financial risk involved. Developing a game, even a remake, requires significant investment in terms of time, money, and resources. Companies must be confident that the revived game will generate enough revenue to justify these costs. This is why market research and pilot testing are crucial steps in the decision-making process. For example, before committing to a full-scale remake, companies might release a remastered version to gauge interest and gather feedback.
Furthermore, the gaming industry is highly competitive, with new titles constantly vying for players’ attention. A revived classic must not only stand out among contemporary games but also offer something unique that justifies its existence. This could be in the form of enhanced graphics, new storylines, or additional content that wasn’t possible in the original release.
In conclusion, while the decision to revive a classic game involves numerous factors and challenges, the potential rewards can be substantial. Companies like EA are well aware of their rich history and the nostalgic value of their classic IPs. By carefully evaluating market demand, leveraging technological advancements, and balancing fan expectations with innovative gameplay, they can successfully bring these beloved games back to life. Whether it’s Dungeon Keeper, Populous, or Magic Carpet, the key is to ensure that any revival is not just a trip down memory lane but a genuinely good game that stands on its own merits.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
