Here’s a bold statement: gamers are shelling out double the cash for remakes over remasters, and it’s shaking up the industry. But here’s where it gets controversial—is this trend a win for innovation, or just a cash grab? Let’s dive in.
A groundbreaking research report by Ampere Analysis has uncovered a fascinating trend in the gaming world. Over the past two years, from January 2024 to September 2025, the company examined 15 remakes and 27 remasters across PlayStation, Xbox, and Steam platforms. The findings? Gamers worldwide spent a staggering $1.4 billion on these titles, with remakes raking in 2.2 times more revenue than their remastered counterparts. That’s right—remakes are dominating the market, but why?
And this is the part most people miss: Remakes like Resident Evil 4, Silent Hill 2, and Demon’s Souls aren’t just quick touch-ups. They require significantly more investment in development, marketing, and time, which often translates to a higher price tag. Remasters, on the other hand, offer a faster, cheaper alternative—but they typically fall short on engagement. As Katie Holt, a senior analyst at Ampere Analysis, puts it, “Publishers are increasingly turning to their back catalogs for cost-effective solutions, but the choice between a remake and a remaster isn’t straightforward. Developers must weigh franchise planning, investment risk, content age, and platform support.”
Take Oblivion Remastered, for example. Despite being labeled a remaster, it went beyond a simple graphics upgrade, featuring a new engine and gameplay enhancements. This hybrid approach attracted seven million players and generated $180 million in revenue, making it the top-earning title in the study. Meanwhile, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Silent Hill 2 stood out as two of the most successful remakes during this period.
Here’s the kicker: While remakes clearly lead in revenue, the line between remakes and remasters is blurring. Projects like Oblivion Remastered challenge traditional definitions, leaving gamers and developers alike to question: What truly defines a remake? And are we willing to pay more for a fully reimagined experience?
So, we want to hear from you: Are you more likely to buy a remake than a remaster? Let us know in the poll and comments below. And don’t hold back—this is a debate worth having. After all, your wallet (and your gaming library) might just depend on it.
