From clunky arcade machines of the past to the ultra-realistic VR experiences of today, the gaming industry has always been at the forefront of technological innovation.
Photo by Javier Martínez on Unsplash
This post will explore five key technologies revolutionizing the gaming sector, why they matter, and how they influence the current and future state of gaming and esports.
Technology #1: The Rise of Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming, also known as game streaming, is a technology that allows you to play games directly from the cloud without requiring high-end hardware.
Cloud gaming is excellent as it eliminates the need for constant updates or large storage spaces, offering a more accessible and affordable gaming experience for consumers.
Technology #2: Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual reality has graduated from a novelty to mainstream in the gaming industry. The technology offers an unmatched level of immersion, turning gamers into active players in virtual worlds. Companies like Oculus and Sony are investing heavily in VR, ensuring its role in the future of gaming.
According to a Statista report, active VR users are expected to reach 171 million by 2022, an impressive leap from just 43 million in 2016. This massive growth shows gamers are not just ready for VR but hungry for it this year.
Technology #3: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Game Design
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a popular tool in game design. From generating complex and lifelike NPCs to personalized gaming experiences, AI technologies are enriching the gaming world in ways we couldn’t have imagined years ago.
According to a Juniper Research study, AI’s applications in gaming are expected to generate over $3 billion in value by 2024, growing at an annual rate of 23%. This astronomical growth underlines AI’s transformative power in shaping gaming’s future.
Technology #4: 5G and the Future of Mobile Gaming
5G networks are a big leap forward for mobile gaming. The high-speed, low-latency connectivity provided by 5G enables smoother gameplay, quicker download times, and more complex online multiplayer for mobile devices.
As per a report from Ericsson, there will be an estimated 4.6 billion 5G subscriptions by the end of 2026. This massive growth will undeniably have an effect on mobile gaming, opening up new possibilities and revenue streams to an already growing industry.
Technology #5: Gaming Marketplaces
Once a niche subculture, gaming has evolved into a booming economy in its own right. Due to this, the rise of specialized gaming marketplaces, like iGitems.com, where gamers can buy, sell, and trade virtual goods ranging from in-game currency to rare skins and accounts have emerged.
According to a study by Hexa Research, the global digital gaming market is expected to reach around $272.2 billion by 2023. A sizeable chunk of this revenue comes from selling virtual assets through marketplaces such as the above.
Conclusion
We’ve covered a bunch of ground, diving deep into five cutting-edge technologies shaping the gaming industry as we know it. However, as we look ahead, one question remains: Are you ready for the future of gaming?
