The gaming industry has come a long way, and Generation Z is at the forefront of its transformation. As the lines between gaming and other digital experiences blur, we explore the impact on society and predict what the future might hold.
Gaming Beyond Conventional Play
In recent years, gaming has evolved to become more than just a form of entertainment. Gaming platforms like Fortnite and Roblox now host a variety of events, such as concerts, fashion shows, and even educational experiences. The popularity of these immersive online events has only grown during the pandemic, when people turned to gaming environments as an alternative to real-world gatherings. It is expected that the global virtual event market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.4% from 2022 to 2030.
The Metaverse and the Role of Virtual Reality
The concept of the metaverse, a term coined in the 1992 novel “Snow Crash” by Neal Stephenson, has become increasingly popular. However, the slow pace of improvement in virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) technology has limited the development of these virtual spaces. Despite this, gaming platforms have succeeded in creating realistic 3D environments on 2D screens, making them the leaders in providing immersive online experiences.
The Impact on Generation Z
Generation Z has embraced these new gaming experiences, using them as a means of social interaction and connection. As gaming becomes more integrated into everyday life, the distinction between gamers and non-gamers may eventually disappear. The younger generation’s affinity for technology and gaming has played a significant role in driving this change, with their influence extending beyond entertainment and into education, fitness, and more.
The Merging of Gaming and Entertainment
As gaming platforms continue to evolve, they will likely absorb experiences from other forms of media. Today, people often go to social media or online forums to discuss topics such as movies and games before or after their publishing. We can expect to see more interactive TV shows and movies that incorporate gaming elements, blurring the lines between passive and active entertainment.
The Potential of Augmented Reality
While virtual reality has the potential to create fully immersive experiences, augmented reality (AR) holds even more promise. By overlaying digital content onto the real world, AR could become the next major tech platform. With companies like Apple and Niantic investing heavily in AR technology, the future of gaming and social interaction could be revolutionized.
Cross-Device and Cross-Platform Play
Players will no longer be limited to single platforms or devices. Cross-device and cross-platform play will allow them to start playing on one device and continue where they left off on another. Popular title like Call of Duty has already implemented such feature. They can play the same games with friends on different platforms or devices. All game data and progress will be synchronized across platforms, offering a seamless experience regardless of how players choose to access the games.
Gaming as a Social Connector
Gaming has always been a social activity, starting from the old MMOs (Massively Multiplayer Online). As technology advances, it will become an even more significant means of connecting people. As more aspects of life become electronically mediated, gaming will likely touch every corner of our lives, from education and work to socializing and personal development.
The Democratization of Gaming Experiences
One of the challenges currently facing the gaming industry is the high entry barrier for users, particularly in emerging countries. As technology becomes more accessible and affordable, we can expect to see a democratization of gaming experiences that allows more people to participate in these immersive online worlds. The Meta Quest 2 might just be the beginning of this process.
As gaming and technology continue to evolve in tandem, the future points to a world where virtual and physical realities blend together to create more immersive, connected experiences that transcend physical boundaries.
