Why Retro Games Are Dominating My Playtime in 2024

In the fast-paced world of video games, the allure of nostalgia often drives gamers back to their roots. The video “Why I'm Playing More Retro Games Than Modern in 2024” sheds light on a growing trend—many gamers, including the video creator, are choosing retro games over modern releases. This shift isn’t just about reliving the good old days, but also a critique of modern gaming's evolution (or perceived lack thereof). Here’s a deep dive into the creator's thoughts, insights, and frustrations with the current state of gaming.

Nostalgia vs. Quality: The Retro Appeal

At first glance, one might assume that the resurgence of retro gaming is primarily driven by nostalgia. The video touches on this point but quickly dismisses the idea that nostalgia alone explains the growing appeal of retro titles. The creator asserts that it’s the depth and quality of older games that keep drawing him back, not just fond memories. Retro games, defined here as anything from the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii eras and earlier, offer a diversity in content and gameplay that modern games, in his opinion, often lack.

While modern games boast cutting-edge graphics and massive budgets, the creator argues that they often fall short in delivering long-lasting, engaging experiences. He highlights the importance of gameplay and innovation in older games, which managed to stay relevant for years after their release. Games like Metal Gear Solid 2 and Metal Gear Solid 3 are prime examples, where players can discover new secrets even after multiple playthroughs. This hidden depth contrasts with many modern games, where everything meaningful is often revealed in a single playthrough.

The Disillusionment with Modern Titles

The dissatisfaction with modern gaming stems from several key issues: padding, lack of staying power, and an overwhelming focus on multiplayer and live service models.

One of the biggest complaints raised in the video is the prevalence of padding in modern games, exemplified by Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. The creator acknowledges that the game is visually stunning and enjoyable in terms of combat. However, he criticizes the unnecessary mini-quests and other filler content that detract from the overall experience. This, he argues, shows a lack of respect for players' time—a trend he notices in many current releases.

Moreover, the staying power of modern games is another point of contention. Once a game’s launch hype dies down, there’s little reason to revisit it. This contrasts sharply with retro titles, which maintain their replayability and relevance decades after their release. The creator reminisces about games like Metal Gear Solid 3, which offers new experiences with every playthrough, whereas modern games often feel like "one-and-done" experiences.

Another major issue is the rise of live service games, which focus on online multiplayer at the expense of single-player content. Games like Fortnite, Overwatch, and other live service titles dominate the market, and while successful, they fail to offer the same kind of in-depth narrative or replayability found in older games. The creator laments how many companies now focus on cashing in on these models, leading to a saturation of the market with similar titles, which often fade into obscurity shortly after release.

The Evolution (or Lack Thereof) in Game Genres

Genre representation is at an all-time low, according to the creator. Back in the day, game developers weren’t afraid to take risks with new intellectual properties (IPs) or innovative gameplay mechanics. Today, however, the high cost of game development pushes studios to play it safe by focusing on remakes, remasters, and established franchises.

While the video acknowledges that the industry has always had its share of hits and misses, the sheer variety of games in the past kept the medium exciting. The first-person shooter (FPS) genre, for instance, had a wealth of options—from big titles to niche games—each offering something different. Nowadays, innovation in this space feels stifled, with fewer new IPs and less experimentation.

This safe approach is particularly frustrating when it comes to remakes and remasters. While they bring beloved classics to a new generation, the creator points out that many of these titles don’t hold the same magic as their originals. He references Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, a game that revisits one of the most iconic RPGs of all time, but ultimately feels padded and diluted compared to its predecessor.

The Problem with Sports and Multiplayer Games

The creator's disdain for sports games in 2024 is palpable, especially when comparing them to older titles like the WWE games on the N64. He critiques the 2K series for prioritizing flashy visuals and microtransactions over solid gameplay. The reliance on card-based systems, which have become a staple in sports games like NBA 2K and Madden, is seen as a predatory practice that takes away from the core experience.

In his eyes, the simplicity and precision of older wrestling games like those built on the Aki engine offer a more rewarding and skill-based experience than today’s 2K games. The introduction of virtual cards and microtransactions feels like an intrusion into the gaming experience, taking advantage of players rather than enhancing the gameplay.

This theme extends into other multiplayer-focused games as well, where companies seem more interested in creating addictive systems to extract money from players rather than delivering a well-rounded experience. Whether it’s the oversaturation of battle royale games or failed attempts to emulate successful franchises like Splatoon, the creator expresses frustration at the lack of creativity in the modern gaming space.

Retro Games: The Hidden Treasure Trove

What truly excites the creator is the vast library of retro games that are still out there, waiting to be discovered or re-experienced. With modern technology, retro games can be played with improved graphics, better frame rates, and modern controllers, offering an enhanced experience while retaining the gameplay charm that made them great in the first place.

He recounts his recent experience playing The Matrix: Path of Neo, a game from the PlayStation 2 era. Despite its age, playing the game with high-resolution textures and modern controls offered a refreshing experience—something that modern games often fail to deliver.

The creator encourages his viewers to explore the wealth of retro games available, even going as far as to recommend picking up a preloaded hard drive packed with retro titles. For him, these games offer more variety, depth, and enjoyment than many of the latest AAA titles. The ability to play a retro game with enhanced graphics and modern controls is a testament to how well these games were designed in the first place.

The Future of Gaming: Where Do We Go From Here?

The creator doesn’t shy away from voicing his concern about the future of gaming. With development costs rising and a reliance on microtransactions and multiplayer models, he worries that innovation may be stifled even further. The industry’s focus on visuals and graphics, he argues, has come at the expense of gameplay and creativity.

In contrast, the retro gaming scene continues to thrive with ROM hacks, fan projects, and new ways to experience older games. This community-driven innovation offers hope for gamers who crave something different from the formulaic offerings of modern gaming.

In conclusion, while the creator acknowledges that there are still a few modern titles he’s looking forward to, he remains firmly rooted in the retro gaming camp. For him, these older games provide a richness and diversity that today’s games lack, and they continue to offer new experiences even decades later. If you find yourself frustrated with the state of modern gaming, perhaps it’s time to dust off those old consoles, explore the retro library, and rediscover what made gaming great in the first place.