Do you remember the very first console you ever played as a kid?

When it comes to the thriving world of indie video games, old-school classics are back in vogue. It’s no secret that vintage – or rather ‘retro’ – is making a comeback. We can see it in fashion with the return of all things holographic or quintessentially 90’s and in Polaroid cameras with their new look but vintage form. Whether this trend is due to the constantly evolving pace of modern technology or simply nostalgic obsession, it seems that retro gaming is very much here to stay.

The gaming industry definitely isn’t exempt from this retro return, but why are players setting aside years’ worth of development in graphics and gameplay and picking up old consoles and their pixelated platforms?

Video games have changed immensely over the last few decades. While many veteran gamers have started showing a renewed interest in classic titles, many of these will not run on new operating systems without an emulator. In response to this revived demand for those classic gaming experiences, some developers have re-released their older games with high-definition graphics and improved compatibility with newer systems, while preserving core gameplay elements.

Retro gaming has made a big comeback in recent years, and there appear to be two reasons behind this trend. The first reason is that video game companies have cleverly either re-developed or repackaged retro games for the contemporary audience. In much the same way as old film franchises are bought back to life, developers have kept enough of the old game intact whilst adding new twists to make it relevant again.

The second reason is the influx of older gamers and people who have tired of the overly complex and time-consuming new games who are now flocking to retro games. The nostalgia hit you get from playing a game from your youth and the simplicity of having a game that is easy yet quick to play are both highly attractive features.