In the past, gaming was seen as a niche hobby. Few players used to own consoles and slower internet setups limited opportunities to compete and collaborate with others across the globe. However, the activity is now bigger than ever, and an estimated three billion people participate in regular gaming activities today.
Gaming can largely be seen as a mainstream hobby in 2023. Not only do billions participate in some form of gaming often, but a whole culture exists around gaming today. The increase in quality and accessibility of gaming via the internet and technological advancements has provided players with more options than ever when it comes to online gaming.
The Recent Rise of Gaming
Between the 1980s and 2000s, gamers would play a video game on a console like a PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo or similar. Players would load a game physically with a disc or cartridge and have options to compete or collaborate with another person playing on the same console or against a computer-simulated competitor.
However, the improving quality of internet connections and cloud software opened the possibilities of collaborative virtual gaming and more game choice than ever.
In the early 2010s, live-streaming video games improved the gaming experience and graphics improved. Also, cloud systems gave players access to almost every game ever invented on one console.
Ultimately, such developments have made gaming more convenient and easier to access than ever before. Whether it is a classic console game like Super Mario Cart, a multi-player sports favourite like FIFA or simulated games from the best online casino UK, online gamers have every possible game available.
Also, the continuous advancement of gaming technology has continued to attract gamers. Inventions like virtual reality software and equipment have provided a more realistic gaming experience. Also, shared gaming experiences online have connected players from all corners of the world, where communities and collaboration exist to create an entire gaming culture.
Shift from Niche to Mainstream
Because gaming is now a complete culture, it has shifted from an occasional, casual hobby into a complete lifestyle for many worldwide.
The modern gaming culture has expanded to a point where celebrity esports players compete in new and classic games for huge monetary prizes in esteemed competitions and tournaments. In addition, companies invest huge sums in advertising and campaigns to attract and keep new players on various platforms. In particular, the introduction of loyalty reward schemes and bonuses for steadily completing games has become a common marketing practice for many game developers.
Furthermore, modern players have almost everything needed to join a social community through gaming. Where previous games relied on multi-players to be physically present to complete or compete, players can now be situated in completely different continents across the globe to share a gaming experience.
In addition, the more affordable cost of most games and internet connections means that gaming is more accessible to billions than in previous years. The invention of high-speed internet and streaming platforms designed just for gaming, like Twitch, ensures players remain connected and pay without interruption.
