Remasters, Remakes, Reboots, and Ports Video Game - Expert Guide
Game Development
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August 10, 2023
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4 min read
Table of Contents
Ever since the ongoing buzz about Resident Evil 3, Final Fantasy VII and Link's Awakening remakes, there has been a debate about remaster vs remake vs reboot. The terms may be pretty clear for many players, but they are often confused with the terms used in movies.
Demystifying today's game concepts, this blog will cover video game remasters, remakes, and reboots with relevant examples of your favourite games.
So, let's get into it.
What Is a Remastered Game?
Remaster video games entail redefining the game graphics and textures and adding model details. It is one of the most delicate forms of reviving games by working on the graphic fidelity of the games. As it is the ‘touched-up’ version, no other parts of the game, such as storyline, game UI/UX, and game mechanics, are changed. However, for remastering video games, an updated game engine and assets can give the game an enhanced look.
Remastering video games occurs when a game is released on a Standard Definition (SD) console and gets ported to a High Definition (HD) console. Many games on the PS3 generation have been remastered as it is one of the first HD consoles. The game is upgraded Using advanced machines, resulting in HD textures and cleaner character models.
Here is an example of remastering video games from Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy
The game graphics are enhanced in the original vs. remake, whereas the game character, story, background, and environment are retained. The character is made realistic with high graphic textures and models.
Source: Grand Theft Auto
Easy examples of remasters are the "HD" editions of recent games like Okami HD, Wind Waker HD, and Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD.
Examples of Video Game Remasters
The examples of famous video game remasters are:
- The Last of Us - Original: 2013, Remastered: 2014
- "Halo: Combat Evolved - Original: 2001, Remastered: 2014 (part of “Halo: The Master Chief Collection”)
- Final Fantasy VII - Original: 1997, Remake: 2020
- Shadow of the Colossus - Original: 2005, Remake: 2018
- Crash Bandicoot - Original: 1996, Remastered: 2017 (part of "Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
What is the best engine to remaster a video game and why?
Unreal engine is considered one of the best game engines to remaster video games and enhance game graphics due to its advanced graphical capabilities, versatile tools, and support for modern platforms.
Original vs Remastered Game – What Is Better?
It entirely depends on the game graphics and how well it performs with its remastered version. However, a remastered game is better than the original one as it offers video players enhanced visuals and strong graphics. As they run on modern consoles with a few bells and whistles, it performs well with an enhanced gameplay experience.
Pros and Cons of Video Games Remasters
Pros
- Enhanced graphics and visuals
- Improved performance and stability
- Preserves nostalgic gaming experiences
- Can introduce new content or features
Cons
- May not address all original game issues
- Limited changes to gameplay mechanics
- Some remasters may feel outdated compared to newer titles
What Is a Remake in Video Games?
Video game remakes, unlike remastered video games, are not the copy of the original rather, they are made on modern rendition. It is optimized for modern hardware and consoles with new game engines, graphics, and design.
Video game remakes are updated versions of existing games reimagined, rebuilt, or revamped with improved graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics. These remakes often bring classic titles to modern platforms, preserving the original story and essence while providing enhanced visuals and features to appeal to new and nostalgic players. However, it must be noted that video game remakes do not disrupt the entire storyline and mainly work on the original one.
Here is an example of a remake in video games from Resident Evil 4.
Source: Resident Evil 4
In the shown comparison of the original vs. remake from Resident Evil 4, the game lore, environment, and characters are retained from the original game, whereas game design and game mechanics are improved.
Examples of Video Game Remakes
Here are some of the top video game remakes that are well-accepted by the gamers:
- Resident Evil 2 - Original: 1998, Remake: 2019
- Spyro the Dragon - Original: 1998, Remake: 2018 (part of "Spyro Reignited Trilogy")
- Shadow of the Colossus - Original: 2005, Remake: 2018
- Demon's Souls - Original: 2009, Remake: 2020 (PlayStation 5 version)
- Medievil - Original: 1998, Remake: 2019
What is the best engine to remake a video game and why?
CryEngine is known as a powerful game engine for remaking video games. It excels in creating visually stunning environments and offers powerful real-time rendering capabilities, making it suitable for recreating classic titles with modern graphics.
Original vs Remake Game – What Is Better?
Choosing between the original and the remake of the game depends upon the quality of the two. However, some gamers are always inclined towards the original gameplay. They would rather play a game that was originally created instead of a remake, as Redditors have conversed on this in their threads.
Pros and Cons of Video Games Remakes
Pros
- Complete overhaul of visuals and gameplay
- Modernization of controls and mechanics
- Can revive classic games for new audiences
- Potential for expanded storyline and content
Cons
- Risk of losing the charm of the original game
- Development challenges in maintaining the essence of the original
- High expectations from nostalgic players
What Is a Reboot in Video Games?
Reboot in video games is developing a game with a new storyline, new game graphics, design, and game mechanics. Even though the reboots are entirely the new version of the original gameplay, they are named under the rebooted franchise.
The main agenda to reboot any video game is to generate revenue and attract new audiences. When a game is rebooted, new concepts, characters, environment, art, and objects are introduced, which builds players' interest to get a new experience with one of the old games.
As the rebooted games are brand new versions of an original game universe, it takes a lot of freedom in development and game story. One main advantage of reboot video games is that the original version has a separate fan base for the characters, and it is easier to market the new version and gain profit.
Here is an example of a reboot in video games from Final Fantasy Games. The entire video was rebooted with characters, design, game environment and overall gameplay mechanics.
Source: Final Fantasy
Rebooted Video Games Examples
Here are some of the famous video games reboot examples:
- Resident Evil - Original: 1996, Reboot: 2019
- Wolfenstein - Original: 1981, Reboot: 2014
- Battlefield - Original: 2002, Reboot: 2018
- Need for Speed - Original: 1994, Reboot: 2015
- Hitman - Original: 2000, Reboot: 2016
What is the best engine to reboot a video game and why?
Unity is a popular choice for rebooting video games because of its flexibility, ease of use, and ability to rapidly prototype new ideas, making it ideal for reinventing game franchises.
Original vs Reboot Game – What Is Better?
Many players like to play original games that have charm, nostalgia, and innovative gameplay elements that make them timeless classics. While reboots can be exciting and modernized, there's something special about playing the game that started it all. However, if you are a gamer that is inclined towards modernized gaming visuals, then a reboot game would be a great experience.
Pros and Cons of Video Games Reboots
Pros
- Fresh take on an established franchise
- Creative freedom to explore new ideas
- Attracts new players to a familiar brand
- Can revitalize interest in the series
Cons
- Departure from the original storyline may disappoint fans
- Risk of alienating loyal followers
- Balance between innovation and retaining core elements is critical
What Are Ports in Video Games?
Video game port transfers video games from one platform to another, i.e., from PC to mobile or vice versa.
You might think the video game port is out of context here. But, no! We will get there in a minute to explain how it relates to remaking, rebooting, and remastering video games.
As every game platform has its requirements and conditions, it is imperative to modify the game and optimise it according to the platform. With that being said, video game ports require a high level of attention and customization to ensure they run smoothly on different platforms. This process involves adapting the game's code, graphics, and controls to match the specifications of each platform, whether it's PC, console, or mobile.
To post a video game, there might be the need to transform the game mechanics, and game art, remodel the game designs, retexture, etc., to optimise it for a targeted platform.
What should I do if I have a game that needs to be ported to PC or mobile platforms?
To port video games, you might need to remodify the game mechanics, game design, etc. Therefore, for porting your game to PC or mobile platforms successfully, it is necessary to assess compatibility, plan the porting strategy, optimize performance, adapt the user interface, conduct thorough testing, utilize player feedback, plan marketing, and regularly update the game post-launch.
A Quick Recap on Remake vs Remaster vs Reboot, and Ports Video Game
Here is a quick table recap of the difference between Remasters, Remakes, Reboots, and Ports video games.
| Graphics Modification | Gameplay Modifications | Game Design Modifications | Storyline Modifications | |
| Remaster | ✔/ ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Remake | ✔ | ✔/ ❌ | ✔ | ✔/ ❌ |
| Reboot | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Ports | ✔/ ❌ | ✔/ ❌ | ✔/ ❌ | ❌ |
Bring Your Game Idea to Reality with InvoGames
If you are looking for a game development company to bring your old version of games to the new and modernized game standards, we have got you covered. Our expert developers and designers will bring your vision to life, crafting immersive and engaging gaming experiences.
Contact us today and get a free consultation for your gaming project.
Table of Contents
Ever since the ongoing buzz about Resident Evil 3, Final Fantasy VII and Link's Awakening remakes, there has been a debate about remaster vs remake vs reboot. The terms may be pretty clear for many players, but they are often confused with the terms used in movies.
Demystifying today's game concepts, this blog will cover video game remasters, remakes, and reboots with relevant examples of your favourite games.
So, let's get into it.
What Is a Remastered Game?
Remaster video games entail redefining the game graphics and textures and adding model details. It is one of the most delicate forms of reviving games by working on the graphic fidelity of the games. As it is the ‘touched-up’ version, no other parts of the game, such as storyline, game UI/UX, and game mechanics, are changed. However, for remastering video games, an updated game engine and assets can give the game an enhanced look.
Remastering video games occurs when a game is released on a Standard Definition (SD) console and gets ported to a High Definition (HD) console. Many games on the PS3 generation have been remastered as it is one of the first HD consoles. The game is upgraded Using advanced machines, resulting in HD textures and cleaner character models.
Here is an example of remastering video games from Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy
The game graphics are enhanced in the original vs. remake, whereas the game character, story, background, and environment are retained. The character is made realistic with high graphic textures and models.
Source: Grand Theft Auto
Easy examples of remasters are the "HD" editions of recent games like Okami HD, Wind Waker HD, and Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD.
Examples of Video Game Remasters
The examples of famous video game remasters are:
- The Last of Us - Original: 2013, Remastered: 2014
- "Halo: Combat Evolved - Original: 2001, Remastered: 2014 (part of “Halo: The Master Chief Collection”)
- Final Fantasy VII - Original: 1997, Remake: 2020
- Shadow of the Colossus - Original: 2005, Remake: 2018
- Crash Bandicoot - Original: 1996, Remastered: 2017 (part of "Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
What is the best engine to remaster a video game and why?
Unreal engine is considered one of the best game engines to remaster video games and enhance game graphics due to its advanced graphical capabilities, versatile tools, and support for modern platforms.
Original vs Remastered Game – What Is Better?
It entirely depends on the game graphics and how well it performs with its remastered version. However, a remastered game is better than the original one as it offers video players enhanced visuals and strong graphics. As they run on modern consoles with a few bells and whistles, it performs well with an enhanced gameplay experience.
Pros and Cons of Video Games Remasters
Pros
- Enhanced graphics and visuals
- Improved performance and stability
- Preserves nostalgic gaming experiences
- Can introduce new content or features
Cons
- May not address all original game issues
- Limited changes to gameplay mechanics
- Some remasters may feel outdated compared to newer titles
What Is a Remake in Video Games?
Video game remakes, unlike remastered video games, are not the copy of the original rather, they are made on modern rendition. It is optimized for modern hardware and consoles with new game engines, graphics, and design.
Video game remakes are updated versions of existing games reimagined, rebuilt, or revamped with improved graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics. These remakes often bring classic titles to modern platforms, preserving the original story and essence while providing enhanced visuals and features to appeal to new and nostalgic players. However, it must be noted that video game remakes do not disrupt the entire storyline and mainly work on the original one.
Here is an example of a remake in video games from Resident Evil 4.
Source: Resident Evil 4
In the shown comparison of the original vs. remake from Resident Evil 4, the game lore, environment, and characters are retained from the original game, whereas game design and game mechanics are improved.
Examples of Video Game Remakes
Here are some of the top video game remakes that are well-accepted by the gamers:
- Resident Evil 2 - Original: 1998, Remake: 2019
- Spyro the Dragon - Original: 1998, Remake: 2018 (part of "Spyro Reignited Trilogy")
- Shadow of the Colossus - Original: 2005, Remake: 2018
- Demon's Souls - Original: 2009, Remake: 2020 (PlayStation 5 version)
- Medievil - Original: 1998, Remake: 2019
What is the best engine to remake a video game and why?
CryEngine is known as a powerful game engine for remaking video games. It excels in creating visually stunning environments and offers powerful real-time rendering capabilities, making it suitable for recreating classic titles with modern graphics.
Original vs Remake Game – What Is Better?
Choosing between the original and the remake of the game depends upon the quality of the two. However, some gamers are always inclined towards the original gameplay. They would rather play a game that was originally created instead of a remake, as Redditors have conversed on this in their threads.
Pros and Cons of Video Games Remakes
Pros
- Complete overhaul of visuals and gameplay
- Modernization of controls and mechanics
- Can revive classic games for new audiences
- Potential for expanded storyline and content
Cons
- Risk of losing the charm of the original game
- Development challenges in maintaining the essence of the original
- High expectations from nostalgic players
What Is a Reboot in Video Games?
Reboot in video games is developing a game with a new storyline, new game graphics, design, and game mechanics. Even though the reboots are entirely the new version of the original gameplay, they are named under the rebooted franchise.
The main agenda to reboot any video game is to generate revenue and attract new audiences. When a game is rebooted, new concepts, characters, environment, art, and objects are introduced, which builds players' interest to get a new experience with one of the old games.
As the rebooted games are brand new versions of an original game universe, it takes a lot of freedom in development and game story. One main advantage of reboot video games is that the original version has a separate fan base for the characters, and it is easier to market the new version and gain profit.
Here is an example of a reboot in video games from Final Fantasy Games. The entire video was rebooted with characters, design, game environment and overall gameplay mechanics.
Source: Final Fantasy
Rebooted Video Games Examples
Here are some of the famous video games reboot examples:
- Resident Evil - Original: 1996, Reboot: 2019
- Wolfenstein - Original: 1981, Reboot: 2014
- Battlefield - Original: 2002, Reboot: 2018
- Need for Speed - Original: 1994, Reboot: 2015
- Hitman - Original: 2000, Reboot: 2016
What is the best engine to reboot a video game and why?
Unity is a popular choice for rebooting video games because of its flexibility, ease of use, and ability to rapidly prototype new ideas, making it ideal for reinventing game franchises.
Original vs Reboot Game – What Is Better?
Many players like to play original games that have charm, nostalgia, and innovative gameplay elements that make them timeless classics. While reboots can be exciting and modernized, there's something special about playing the game that started it all. However, if you are a gamer that is inclined towards modernized gaming visuals, then a reboot game would be a great experience.
Pros and Cons of Video Games Reboots
Pros
- Fresh take on an established franchise
- Creative freedom to explore new ideas
- Attracts new players to a familiar brand
- Can revitalize interest in the series
Cons
- Departure from the original storyline may disappoint fans
- Risk of alienating loyal followers
- Balance between innovation and retaining core elements is critical
What Are Ports in Video Games?
Video game port transfers video games from one platform to another, i.e., from PC to mobile or vice versa.
You might think the video game port is out of context here. But, no! We will get there in a minute to explain how it relates to remaking, rebooting, and remastering video games.
As every game platform has its requirements and conditions, it is imperative to modify the game and optimise it according to the platform. With that being said, video game ports require a high level of attention and customization to ensure they run smoothly on different platforms. This process involves adapting the game's code, graphics, and controls to match the specifications of each platform, whether it's PC, console, or mobile.
To post a video game, there might be the need to transform the game mechanics, and game art, remodel the game designs, retexture, etc., to optimise it for a targeted platform.
What should I do if I have a game that needs to be ported to PC or mobile platforms?
To port video games, you might need to remodify the game mechanics, game design, etc. Therefore, for porting your game to PC or mobile platforms successfully, it is necessary to assess compatibility, plan the porting strategy, optimize performance, adapt the user interface, conduct thorough testing, utilize player feedback, plan marketing, and regularly update the game post-launch.
A Quick Recap on Remake vs Remaster vs Reboot, and Ports Video Game
Here is a quick table recap of the difference between Remasters, Remakes, Reboots, and Ports video games.
| Graphics Modification | Gameplay Modifications | Game Design Modifications | Storyline Modifications | |
| Remaster | ✔/ ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Remake | ✔ | ✔/ ❌ | ✔ | ✔/ ❌ |
| Reboot | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Ports | ✔/ ❌ | ✔/ ❌ | ✔/ ❌ | ❌ |
Bring Your Game Idea to Reality with InvoGames
If you are looking for a game development company to bring your old version of games to the new and modernized game standards, we have got you covered. Our expert developers and designers will bring your vision to life, crafting immersive and engaging gaming experiences.
Contact us today and get a free consultation for your gaming project.
frequently asked questions
Yes, remastered games can be worth it for players who want to experience improved graphics and performance of classic titles. However, it depends on personal preferences and how much players value the updates. Some may prefer the original versions for authenticity.
A remake is a new version of a game that has been rebuilt from the ground up with updated graphics, mechanics, and content. It often offers a more significant overhaul than a remaster. On the other hand, a port is the process of adapting an existing game to run on a different platform or console without significant changes to the game's core content or presentation.
The legality of remaking a game depends on various factors, including copyright and intellectual property laws. In many cases, remakes of older games are made with the proper licensing and permissions from the original game developers or publishers. Obtaining the necessary rights and permissions is essential to avoid copyright infringement and potential legal issues.
Game developers who wish to remake a game should seek legal advice, secure the appropriate licenses, and ensure they comply with all relevant laws and regulations. Unauthorized remakes can lead to legal action and may result in the game being taken down or facing other penalties.
Written By:
Schouzib I.
Content Lead
Know More About Gaming Industry
