Latest Trends in Online Gaming

When the entire world stopped due to the global pandemic, some industries gained momentum and saw immense growth. One of them is online gaming, estimated to be worth $159.3 billion in 2020.   

As technology advances, new trends take over the industry and make the gaming experience more engaging, convenient, and enjoyable. Online gaming has become an ecosystem that benefits not only the corporate giants but also developers, and more importantly, players.  

We scoured the web and came up with a list of the fastest-growing trends that dominate the gaming industry. Read on to find out what everyone seems to be raving about.  

AR and VR Gaming 

When talking about games and the latest developments, AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality) technologies come to mind. Although they’ve been around for a while, video and casino games have only recently introduced versions with VR and AR segments. 

VR headsets were considered quite expensive and inaccessible to many people. However, developers now use other technologies to create first-party games, meaning having external hardware isn’t necessary. 

Although VR and AR games have entered the market, software producers have yet to grasp the potential and generate convenient and easily reachable video games.  

3D Slot Games 

Even though 3D slot machines are already present in casino venues throughout the country, they have only recently entered the online gaming market. Despite taking its place as a video slot subcategory, 3D slot games come with superior graphics, providing a more immersive casino adventure. The two main types of 3D slots are: 

Given that players are always looking for a more immersive gaming experience, online casinos quickly adapt to new trends, and 3D casino slots are certainly one of them. 

Live Dealer Online Casinos 

In recent years, online casinos have switched their focus to live dealer platforms that offer a real casino experience. Some enjoy the possibility of playing their favorite games from the comfort of their homes, while others like the option of communicating with the croupier and other players. 

Games on live dealer platforms are broadcast from casino studios and allow you to play in real-time. You can use the chat function to consult the dealer or talk to other participants, creating the illusion of a real brick-and-mortar gaming facility.   

Cloud-Based Gaming 

Although console gaming is not dead, other options are becoming increasingly popular. Thanks to its accessibility and cost-effectiveness, cloud gaming has turned into a global trend. Not only can people play their favorite games through a browser, but they can also use smartphones and tablets to load and access various titles.  

Could-based gaming is more convenient, as you don’t have to possess external hardware like consoles and high-end gaming PCs to enjoy immersive games. Although it has yet to gain global recognition, cloud gaming certainly has the potential to become a preferred option. 

Game Streaming 

Even if you’re not a passionate gamer, you must have heard of Twitch — the world’s most popular streaming platform. It’s a sanctuary that gathers professional and amateur gamers allowing them to live stream their gameplay.  

Over time, streaming has become the main source of income for many gaming enthusiasts. Some of them have earned millions thanks to their loyal fans. Due to Twitch’s steady year-on-year growth, we believe live game streaming will keep trending for years on end. 

eSports  

With the cancellation of many sporting events worldwide, many people have turned to gaming as the main entertainment source. That’s when eSports entered the fold and filled in the gap. Available on many gaming platforms, eSports tournaments have brought much-needed excitement. There, players can partake in action-packed competitions and enjoy the thrill. 

eSports also became a preferred gambling option, as many online betting platforms introduced these events as gambling opportunities. That way, gaming enthusiasts could live stream the tournaments and place wagers to back their favorites.