The online world seems to be constantly changing as new technology and new ideas are born every month, and that applies across the various sectors of our economies.
There are increasingly more innovative online retail solutions, for example, while online gamblers can benefit from new innovations if they visit this comparison site, and there is a widening range of exciting new leisure opportunities available through the online world.
One of the most dynamic global sectors is the world of gaming. This is one area in which new technology is being showcased all the time, and there are multiple new innovations every year highlighting the ingenuity and creativity of those who work in the sector. Here are just a few of the trends that are helping to reshape the gaming world in 2022:
Metaverse and VR
The metaverse’s introduction raises the possibility of achieving a totally digital environment where people can interact, live and even work. Adding further depth to that prospect is VR technology and the possibility of combining the two concepts. The industry is still hesitant, but there is no denying that the Metaverse has led to an increased interest in VR and AR technology, and opportunities for pay-to-play or play-to-earn games, as well as whole digital careers are on the horizon.
Expansion of cloud gaming
The debate over whether to buy games in-person or online has long divided the gaming community. Online shopping may seem more convenient, but many gamers complain that the downloads take a long time and take up a lot of hard disc space.
Cloud gaming offers a viable alternative. Players can explore thousands of titles on cloud gaming providers and instantly stream them on their favorite platform. Publishers are seeing profits on older games from prior console generations as more businesses consider streaming services such as PS Now. Over the past five years, there has been a tremendous increase in interest in cloud gaming, and as this trend continues, it won’t be long until other services begin vying for users’ attention.
Cross-platform access
Console competition could be going out of fashion as more cross-platform options arise. Online releases have allowed for more cross-platform projects, along with technological developments and decreasing prices. Game developers are finding workable solutions to improve performance with all game systems as they continue to create more sophisticated game code.
Previously, a gamer’s choice of player communities was determined by their platform, however, cross-platform functions have changed this by making it possible for gamers to play together despite being on different platforms. It is possible that cross-platform gaming may become a long-lasting feature for the video game industry as accessibility to this function increases.
Gaming industry equality
Over the past few years, there have been several lawsuits filed against gaming companies, including Activision Blizzard and Riot Games as the industry collectively addresses equality and gender discrimination in workplace cultures. 2022 will continue to foster advancements in working conditions, unionization discussions and the eradication of hostile workplace environments.
Over half of the game developers surveyed at the Game Developers Conference are in support of unionization, and the first-ever North American game developer union has been launched at independent firm Vodeo Games. The culture of gaming workplaces is expected to keep progressing towards a more fair and equitable state.
Remakes and reboots
Even in the fast-moving gaming world, nostalgia can be powerful. A new generation of developer-minded players are turning to producing their own indie creations based on some of the great games of the past, which is encouraging many gamers to explore games of previous eras.
Old brands that had been slipping into obscurity are being considered for revival and old gaming concepts are being given a fresh spin. A wider range of creators can now distribute games thanks to platforms such as Steam and the Epic Games Store, while the innovation needed to breathe fresh life into outdated notions is encouraged through sandbox projects. In many areas of the industry, the future of innovation may actually involve reaching back into the past for inspiration.
Conclusion
In 2022, gaming is not just a pastime or another form of entertainment, but a way of life. That fact is being recognized and acted upon by gaming companies. Developers will continue to innovate and present innovations and possibilities that will propel the gaming industry to new heights as public interest in gaming increases throughout the rest of 2022 and into the remainder of the decade.
