Reboot (fiction) facts for kids

A reboot is like hitting the reset button on a story or a series that already exists. Imagine a new beginning for a fictional universe, like a comic book world, a movie series, or a video game. Even if some ideas or characters are similar, the new story usually doesn't connect directly to what happened before. It's a fresh start!

For example, the movie Batman Begins is a reboot. It tells a new origin story for Batman. Even though it's about the famous superhero, its story is completely separate from the older Batman movies directed by Tim Burton and Joel Schumacher. In video games, the game DmC: Devil May Cry is another example. It still features a character named Dante, who is a half-demon, but his look and personality are very different from earlier Devil May Cry games. The story is also new and doesn't follow the previous games.

Reboot vs. Remake: What's the Difference?

It's easy to confuse a reboot with a remake, but they are not the same. A remake is when an old story is told again, usually with updated graphics or small changes. The core story stays the same.

For instance, the James Bond movie Never Say Never Again is a remake of Thunderball. It tells almost the exact same story as Thunderball, but with slight differences. In video games, Metroid: Zero Mission is a remake of the very first Metroid game. It has the same main story, but it features much better graphics, new abilities for the character, and even a new area to explore after the original game's ending.

Why Do Reboots Happen?

Reboots are often made for several reasons. Sometimes, a series might have become too complicated over many years. A reboot can simplify the story and make it easier for new fans to understand. It can also bring a classic story to a new generation of viewers or players.

Another reason is to update a story for modern times. Older stories might have ideas or technology that feel outdated. A reboot can make the story feel fresh and relevant to today's audience. It also gives creators a chance to explore new ideas or different versions of beloved characters.

Images for kids

• 

  The Godzilla film series has been rebooted many times since it started in 1954. This picture is from Godzilla Raids Again (1955).

See also

In Spanish: Reinicio (ficción) para niños