It’s no secret that online gaming is hugely popular. There was an estimated 1.13 billion online gamers in 2023, a number which is predicted to grow steadily over the next few years.
Here, we explore some of the key innovations and advancements in technology that are sure to enhance player experiences and revolutionise the gaming industry.
Virtual reality
Technologies such as virtual reality (VR) have the power to transform the way gamers play. By wearing goggles, gloves or headsets, users can feel like they have entered their game’s world and have a real-time impact on it.
This is done through “motion sensors that pick up the user’s movements and adjust the view on the screen accordingly” Britannica explains. “The illusion of “being there”” can offer a more immersive gaming experience than ever before.
As well as picking up motion, some VR sets include sound systems that allow users to hear what’s happening around them in the virtual world. They may also be able to interact with virtual objects, drive cars and more.
Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved rapidly. It’s now used across multiple sectors such as finance, healthcare, science, and of course, gaming. It has the potential to redefine how games are made, making it quicker than ever for developers to create impressive and immersive gaming worlds for users.
AI may also make play more personal by observing and learning how a particular user behaves. For instance, AI could create bespoke challenges or rewards for individual players based on how they play and their unique needs.
It may also be able to change how difficult a particular part of the game is to suit each player and provide in-game advice. This may offer higher levels of satisfaction as users of all abilities can enjoy the game.
5G technology
“5G is the new generation of wireless technology” says Ofcom. It is “much faster than previous generations of wireless technology”, “offers greater capacity” and is also “more responsive”.
Ofcom says that “this means gamers will see an end to the slight delays that can occur, when games can take time to reflect what they’re doing on their controller”.
This may be welcome news to gamers, particularly those that like to play when they’re out and about. Whether it’s action games, racing competitions or bingo apps that allow you to play on the go, 5G may enhance user experiences by providing faster and more reliable connectivity.
Many technological advancements could transform the gaming world, including 5G, artificial intelligence and virtual reality. How do you think gaming will evolve over the next few years?
