The Growth of Video Games
In light of National Video Game Day on September 12, we at Tech Square ATL (TSQATL) Social Club took a deep dive into the history of video games, what’s currently happening in the industry, and if there are any new technologies to be launched soon.
There is no denying video games are a huge form of entertainment – whether it’s video games consoles, pc games, or even games on your smartphone. Games are a source of distraction, and what better way to distract yourself in this “new normal” we are living today.
Used by many as an escape outlet, video games have grown immensely over the years, starting back in the 1950s with the game Tennis for Two. Created by William Higinbotham, this was played on a large analog computer and connected to an oscilloscope screen.
The industry has come a long way since then, with over 900 video game consoles released throughout the years. Here’s a list of the best current gaming consoles (if you’re looking for some sound recommendations!).
There has also been a boost in revenue and attentiveness in the global market of video games due to the current pandemic, with its expected market revenue to hit $300 billion by 2025.
The expected revenue for 2020 is $159.3 billion, with 48 percent being from mobile games, such as ones on your smartphone or tablets. Closely following are video game consoles at 28 percent, which are responsible for $45.3 billion in revenue.
Back in 2010, Twitch became a popular live streaming platform. Today, with over 15 million daily users, Twitch has become one of the top live streaming platforms for gamers around the world.
As in any other industry, with time comes new innovations. Some of the new technologies being added include: facial recognition to allow for a more accurate looking avatar, gesture control using Intel Realsense technology, augmented reality, virtual reality, and so many more.
Interested in learning more about video games? Take a look at the documentary High Score on Netflix. It showcases classic video games and gives insight into them and the innovators that created them. Here’s a list of other documentaries that talk about specific games and consoles.
DID YOU KNOW?
In 2020, 2.7 billion gamers in total will spend $160 billion on games.
Do you play games on your phone or a console? What is your preferred game? Let us know in the comments below.