It turns out that people prefer a completely reworked game to just slightly improved graphics and a higher frame rate.
According to a new study by Ampere Analysis, in 2024–2025, players spent 2.2 times more on full-fledged video game remakes than on remasters. A total of 42 projects (15 remakes and 27 remasters) released from January 2024 to September 2025 attracted 72.4 million players on Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam and generated $1.4 billion through premium versions and microtransactions.
The average remake earned 2.2 times more than the average remaster, but requires «significantly more investment in development, marketing, and time», analysts note. Remasters are released faster and cheaper, but provide less engagement.
A prime example of a successful remaster is The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered: peak revenue of $180 million and 7 million monthly active users on three platforms.
