Throughout the past couple years, old classics have been revisited after, in some cases, decades of not being touched at all. While many of these remakes turn to modernized graphics, others remain true to their original style. In some cases, sequels have been created in the spirit of the 8-bit era. Of course, I'm speaking in particular to the two new Mega Man games. Here, I'll briefly discuss why this is a fantastic turn of events in the gaming industry, and why it's catching fire among the fanbase.

 1.  Because without so much focus on the latest graphics, it all comes down to gameplay

As graphics have evolved, people have argued whether or not graphics play a significant role in gaming satisfaction. Of course, visual satisfaction plays a role, but how significant a role? Until now, no developer has had the cojones to venture backward in terms of graphics. Sure, handhelds don't have the hardware to support console graphics, but the idea there is that you can play on the toilet. ... What? Oh, yeah, you can play outside the house, too. Now, with downloadable content, we've seen the classics up for download on modern consoles. This works, but these are established classics, so a new element adds to the satisfaction: I'm playing a classic, so it's good by default.

I'm referring to the two new Mega Man games. Even Castlevania hasn't revisited old graphics, even though they went 3D, and back to 2D. Capcom has long been criticized in the gaming industry for not adding anything new. I'd argue that creating new games with 8-bit graphics has not only contributed to how games can be made, but offered insight as to what lies at the heart of gaming satisfaction: the gameplay. With so many graphical marvels on store shelves (and up for download), why would people opt for an 8-bit game? Because the gameplay astounds.

One problem lies inherent, however: Mega Man is established. What I mean is that many gamers already know how great Mega Man is, so there's little risk here; we know what we're getting. I'd love to see a brand new game made with 8-bit graphics, and see how it does--with quality gameplay, of course.

2. Retro isn't just fun, it's educational!

But what about those who don't know Mega Man? There's no promise of high quality gameplay. However, love it or hate it, Mega Man gave the little sprats a shot in the arm. Whether they shorted out their Wiimote from drool, or threw their controller in a fit of rage, younger gamers got a taste of what makes the classics classic--with new content.

Why is this important? Well, again, it kills the stereotype that graphics make the game, and if any demographic adheres to this stereotype, it's the youth of today. Here's the kicker, though: sales drive development, and if most games being sold overemphasize graphics in substitute of gameplay, then we have a problem! Publishers will push through eye-candy that lacks imaginative game design, diluting gaming experiences for everyone. This is critical, and shows just how a ripple can turn into a tidal wave.

Turning your body into a permanent diagram for history!  You can't help but admire her.

3. Returning to retro offers a promise of quicker releases of higher quality games

No one likes to wait for games--especially if they're as appealing as Aunt Peg's orange and fuchsia moo-moo. There's nothing more sad than a game that stays in development for years on grounds of graphics alone, while game design suffers. So, wouldn't it be great to have fun games that roll out quickly? Of course, and that's what these games promise. Fun doesn't mean years of development combined with next-gen graphics. If the time is worth it, and the graphics enhance the experience--fantastic! Like Final Fantasy, the visuals can sometimes create a cinematic experience that turns a mere game into an interactive movie. Let's face it, Mega Man 10 probably didn't take that long to develop, and we know what we're getting: fun. The market's already flooded with pretty garbage, so let's balance things out with some good ol' classic fun, ne?

4. Those were are the days!

Many won't admit it, but playing the games of olde can be an emotional, nostalgic experience. Yeah, Capcom's making a lot of cash on these "simple" games, but they're not only offering us a chance to play great games, but take a renewed trip down memory lane. We don't have to play the same old levels anymore to get that experience we had when we were binging on glasses of ice and Pepsi while Mom washed the dishes on a hot summer day. We have new content now from the people who made the originals--and it's done right, thank deity-that-you-follow. So, yeah, people can say that Capcom's taking advantage of old gamers, but if you ask me, we're getting more for our money than we would on any other title. Or maybe I'm just a sentimental old codger.

 Yeah, this laptop's the latest model.  Hmm?  Oh, yeah, this is Mario 2.  Why?

[Edited By Moderator]