New Research by GAMIVO Reveals Gamers Prefer Latest Releases Over Retro Titles

Nostalgia vs. New Releases in Gaming: Insights from GAMIVO

As the gaming landscape evolves, a recent study by GAMIVO reveals an intriguing trend: despite the growing popularity of retro gaming fueled by nostalgia, a substantial majority of gamers are opting for the latest releases. With an impressive 60% of video games sold in 2025 launched in 2021 or later, this trend showcases the duality of modern gaming habits, where nostalgia and contemporary gaming experiences are not mutually exclusive but rather interwoven.

Located in Sliema, Malta, GAMIVO provides digital products focusing primarily on video games. Their latest research indicates that between 2016 and 2020, only 28.4% of titles purchased came from that era, while a mere 10% originated from 2011 to 2015. Shockingly, just 2.5% of games sold were released 15 years or more ago. This overwhelming preference for newer titles does not surprise industry experts.

According to Paweł Zemka, Chief Revenue Officer at GAMIVO, the dominance of games from the last five years is clear. “Gamers are eager to stay current with trends, and the latest releases, especially those from beloved franchises, play a pivotal role in driving the overall progress of the gaming industry. The excitement surrounding news related to upcoming titles like GTA VI reflects this trend.”

Moreover, while there remains a segment of the gamer demographic that shows interest in classic titles, their engagement typically manifests in different forms. For instance, many collectors focus on acquiring sealed copies of vintage games or consoles. Yet, the majority of today’s gamers prefer purchasing merchandise featuring their favorite characters. Companies have recognized this inclination, creating an array of products ranging from apparel to collectibles, including Lego sets inspired by vintage gaming systems.

Paweł Zemka notes how nostalgia significantly influences the gaming market, especially in recent releases. “Gamers no longer need to buy older titles to relive their fond memories, as we are witnessing a golden age of remakes, remasters, and reboots. Each month sees seasoned games rejuvenated with improved graphics and gameplay mechanics, appealing to both nostalgic veterans and newcomers alike.”

In 2025 alone, numerous classics are making their return, such as Oblivion, System Shock 2, Neverwinter Nights 2, and several titles from the Tomb Raider franchise. Additionally, a new wave of games incorporating retro aesthetics and gameplay mechanics—dubbed ‘boomer shooters’ and pixel-art Metroidvanias—demonstrates that nostalgia and contemporary gaming trends can coexist harmoniously.

Ultimately, as Paweł Zemka concludes, nostalgia is just one facet of the gaming experience that complements the continuous evolution towards new content. “In the world of gaming, fans can hold on to cherished memories while eagerly embracing new titles that push boundaries and provide fresh adventures,” he states.

This intersection of nostalgia and innovation sheds light on how gamers today navigate their preferences, whether through the excitement of new releases, the enjoyment of playing classics, or connecting with their favorite gaming universes in various forms. Thus, the gaming community appears poised to welcome the next wave of creativity and technological advancement, all while cherishing the past that has shaped its evolution.