The world of retro gaming is a treasure trove waiting to be explored, but there’s a catch. ‘Financial Viability’ is the gatekeeper, and it’s a big deal. Why aren’t more classic games making their way to PS Plus Premium? It’s a question that has gamers and industry insiders alike scratching their heads.
The PS Plus revamp has undoubtedly enhanced the retro gaming experience on PS5 and PS4, but there’s a lingering sense that it could be even better. The issue? The slow trickle of new titles, with subscribers receiving just one new game per month.
Enter Bill Litshauer, the emulation expert from Implicit Conversions, who lifts the curtain on the challenges of bringing PS1 and PS2 games to modern consoles. In an interview with Mystic, he reveals the intricate process of predicting a game’s success and the hurdles that follow.
It’s all about the numbers. Litshauer’s team scours platforms like Reddit, YouTube, and social media to gauge interest, combining this with sales trends to forecast a game’s potential. But here’s where it gets tricky: even with promising data, they must navigate legal complexities and secure publisher consent.
And this is where things get controversial. What if the rights holder is no longer around? Or there are disputes over content and licenses? These scenarios can halt a game’s re-release in its tracks. But wait, there’s more. Litshauer highlights the financial tightrope of retro re-releases. With games often sold at low prices, making a profit can be a challenge. The relationship between developers and publishers becomes crucial, with revenue-sharing programs being a common solution.
But here’s the twist: some publishers aren’t impressed by the potential profits. Litshauer recalls a meeting with an executive whose company generates billions annually. The revenue from retro releases? A mere drop in the ocean. So, why bother?
Despite these hurdles, there’s a silver lining. The retro gaming market is evolving, and we’re witnessing a resurgence of classic titles. While the pace may be slower than desired, the industry is maturing. With studios like Implicit Conversions leading the charge, the future looks promising for retro gaming enthusiasts.
The real question is, how can we convince more publishers to embrace this movement? These games may not break sales records, but they hold immense value in preserving gaming history. What do you think? Is the industry doing enough to bring retro games to modern audiences? Share your thoughts in the comments below!