Gaming Franchises Making a Comeback

16 November 2025

Let’s be honest—nostalgia hits hard, especially when it comes to video games. We’ve all got that one franchise that kept us glued to the screen for hours, only to fade away into gaming history. But guess what? Some of our all-time favorite gaming franchises are roaring back to life. Whether it’s a full-blown reboot or a long-awaited sequel, these comebacks are making fans lose their minds—in the best way possible.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into gaming franchises making a comeback, why these revivals matter, and which ones you should keep on your radar. So grab your controller, because we’re going on a journey through digital time.

Why Are Gaming Franchises Making a Comeback?

You might be wondering, “Why now?” Well, there are a few solid reasons behind this.

First off, nostalgia is a powerful force. Gamers who grew up in the '80s, '90s, and early 2000s now make up a huge portion of the gaming market. We’re talking about adults with spending power and a serious craving to relive their pixelated past.

Secondly, the gaming industry has become insanely good at modernizing old content. With advancements in graphics, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling, old franchises can be reimagined in ways that still honor the original feel.

Lastly, let’s not forget the community voice. Social media, fan petitions, and YouTube commentary have made it crystal clear which games deserve a second shot.

So yeah, it’s no surprise that developers are listening—and bringing these legends back to life.

Franchises That Are Crushing Their Comebacks

Now, let’s talk about who’s doing it right. Here are some gaming franchises that have recently returned from the digital dead—or are about to—and are totally nailing the comeback game.

1. Silent Hill – The Return of Psychological Horror

Did you feel that chill? Yep, it’s Silent Hill making its bone-chilling return. After a decade of silence (pun intended), Konami finally decided to revive the franchise.

Fans were devastated when Silent Hills got canned. But now, we’re getting Silent Hill 2 Remake and even new titles like Silent Hill: Townfall. The foggy streets and terrifying monsters are back—and looking even scarier in 4K.

This comeback is more than just fan service. It's a resurrection of the survival-horror genre that’s been begging for more psychological torment.

2. Fable – The Fantasy You Forgot You Loved

Remember the cheeky humor, mythical creatures, and moral choices of Fable? It’s making a return, baby.

Xbox Game Studios is working with Playground Games (the folks behind Forza Horizon) to bring Fable back to life. The teaser already looks stunning, and fans are buzzing with excitement.

While details are still under wraps, the promise of blending old-school charm with next-gen visuals might make Fable the RPG hit it's always deserved to be.

3. Prince of Persia – Time to Turn Back Time

Here we are, talking about Prince of Persia in 2024. Who would’ve thought?

Once a titan in the action-adventure genre, the franchise sort of slipped into the shadows after The Forgotten Sands. But Ubisoft announced a full remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and although it hit some development bumps, it's back on track.

Oh, and let’s not forget Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, an upcoming 2D Metroidvania-style entry. It's giving major retro vibes with a slick modern twist.

Time travel? More like time revival.

4. Perfect Dark – Cyber Espionage is Back

If you owned an N64, chances are you remember Perfect Dark. It was like GoldenEye 007 on steroids.

After two decades, Joanna Dark is returning in a brand-new reboot from The Initiative and Crystal Dynamics. Set in a near-future world ravaged by ecological disasters, the new Perfect Dark aims to blend sci-fi espionage with thrilling first-person action.

It’s basically Mission: Impossible meets Blade Runner. Need I say more?

5. Splinter Cell – Sam Fisher Sneaks Back In

Okay, real talk—how many of us begged Ubisoft to bring back Splinter Cell? The answer: basically everyone.

After years of radio silence (except for a few cameo appearances), Sam Fisher is officially making a comeback. Ubisoft confirmed a Splinter Cell remake is in the works, built from the ground up with modern tech.

Stealth, night-vision goggles, tactical takedowns—we’ve missed them all. And honestly, the spy-thriller genre feels incomplete without Fisher in the mix.

6. Dead Space – Horror in Space Gets a Facelift

There’s something unnerving about being hunted on a spaceship, and Dead Space nailed it back in the day.

EA Motive’s remake of the original Dead Space is everything fans hoped for and more. Enhanced visuals, improved audio, and a few gameplay tweaks make this feel like a fresh nightmare you’ll want to get lost in.

And yes, the zero-gravity sections are better than ever. Isaac Clarke may be silent, but his horrifying journey sure isn’t.

7. Metroid Dread & Beyond – The Rebirth of a Legend

Metroid has always had a loyal fanbase, but for a while, it felt like Nintendo was ghosting Samus.

Then came Metroid Dread, and suddenly, everyone remembered how much they adore this sci-fi bounty hunter. Released for the Switch, Dread brought sleek 2.5D action and intense boss fights back into the spotlight.

Now, hype is building for Metroid Prime 4. If that entry sticks the landing, we might be looking at one of the greatest Nintendo comebacks of all time.

8. Dragon Age – More Magic, More Drama, More Choices

Bioware may have hit a few rough patches lately, but Dragon Age fans still hold out hope—and for good reason.

Dragon Age: Dreadwolf is currently in development, promising more political drama, spell-casting, and deep, character-driven storytelling. The teaser trailers alone have sparked endless fan theories.

This comeback hinges on Bioware doubling down on what made the series great: choices that matter, rich world-building, and unforgettable companions.

9. Max Payne – Bullet Time Returns

Max Payne is one of those gritty, noir-infused shooters that left a lasting impact. Remember diving in slow motion while firing dual pistols? Iconic.

Now, Remedy Entertainment is teaming up with Rockstar to remake Max Payne 1 & 2. Not just a remaster—full remakes using the Northlight engine (same as Control).

If they pull this off, we’re in for a cinematic, emotional, action-packed ride. Just don’t forget the painkillers.

What Makes a Comeback Successful?

Bringing a franchise back isn’t as simple as slapping on some HD textures and calling it a day. A proper comeback respects the original while pushing its boundaries.

Here’s what separates the hits from the misses:

- Nailing the Tone: It has to feel like the original—but better.
- Modern Mechanics: Outdated gameplay has to evolve or die.
- Community Feedback: Developers need to listen to the fans.
- Visual Overhaul: We’re in the 4K era; grainy cutscenes won’t cut it.

When a developer gets these right, it’s magic. The sense of familiarity mixed with innovation? That’s the sweet spot.

Why We Crave These Comebacks

Let’s face it: gaming isn’t just entertainment—it’s emotional. These franchises shaped who we are as gamers. Revisiting them is like digging out an old photo album, except this time, the photos move, shoot, and sometimes scream in surround sound.

Plus, many of these games had unfinished stories or cliffhangers we never got closure on. Comebacks offer redemption. They give us a chance to say hello (or goodbye) properly.

Final Thoughts

Gaming franchises making a comeback isn't just a trend—it’s a celebration. A celebration of creativity, perseverance, and the ever-growing bond between developers and gamers.

So whether it’s Samus fighting space pirates, Sam Fisher sneaking through shadows, or Joanna Dark saving the world again—these returns are more than welcome. They're reminders that sometimes, the past deserves a second chance… especially when it comes with better graphics.

Now it's your turn. Which franchise comeback has you the most hyped? Grab that controller, and let the nostalgia (and new adventures) begin.