What really makes a good game

Can a game become a greater game by adding better graphics, CPU or RAM? In some cases yes, but really only when it comes to the ones that were already bottlenecked by the tech of their days when they were still in development.

One of the most played games right now is still Minecraft. That says a lot about how "graphics, animation, physics, sound" are not that relevant. Sure, GTA 3 with better graphics would be a better GTA 3. But Minecraft with better graphics is not a better Minecraft. You can even try it yourself with the HD textures pack. It's tiring to look at, try it yourself.

Sonic Mania (2017)

We can also look at Sonic Mania as the best example of a retro-style game that simply does not rely on anything from the newer gens. As amazing as it is, it would never get better because of current hardware boosts. It's platforming brilliance, fantastic gameplay and obstacle variety are all thanks to the dedicated developers who truly love the franchise.

Sonic 3 & Knuckles (1994)

On the other hand, we can also use Sonic Adventure 2, Sonic Generations and Sonic Forces as opposite examples. They are Sonic games but fully 3D, yet they are still damn good! Regardless, there is one undeniable difference: the gameplay is vastly different. Since they were made for a new audience, the same people who like Mario Maker nowadays would probably not be as enticed for Sonic Adventure 2 as for Sonic 3 & Knuckles.

Sonic Adventure 2 (2001)

The real reason games have significantly improved over time isn't the evolution of technology, but that of game making itself. I hereby offer the ultimate proof: Micro Mages, a NES game released on March, 2019, just last year. Same old tech devastatingly different due to the game design geniality from the dev team.