2024’s Gaming Trends

As we enter 2024, the gaming industry is ablaze with excitement over the emergence of generative artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. From the integration of NFTs to the rise of cryptocurrency-based games, these groundbreaking advancements are not only revolutionizing the gaming experience but also completely transforming the development process. So, let’s take a closer look at the top gaming trends that will define 2024.

Generative AI in Gaming

2023 was the year that AI became mainstream. Unsurprisingly, AI is now being incorporated into video game development to enhance immersion and transform the overall gaming experience. In 2024, generative AI is changing the way games are being developed, helping create dynamic storylines, believable characters and immense game worlds. Games are being tailored to individual preferences with non-player characters (NPCs) that react to a player’s actions and engage in natural conversations without relying on a script, by utilising real-time generative AI. Generative AI can even create opponents that adapt to a player’s skill level. What will generative AI achieve next?

Esports

Esports emerged in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic as a gaming niche with a loyal following. Characterised by professional leagues, live audiences, and broadcast coverage, esports has attracted top-tier talent and significant investment and sponsorships. Major tournaments are watched both online and in person by over 380 million people worldwide. Now a global industry with a huge fan base, a new generation of gaming enthusiasts are joining esports programs and scholarships, offering long-term growth opportunities in gaming. 

Due to its multiple revenue streams, including sponsorships, merchandise and advertising, the number of active players will grow to at least 640 million by 2025, with the potential to become a strong competitor to traditional sports. It’s no surprise then that bookmakers are already taking in billions in revenue from esports alone according to Top Betting. This year esports will become more professional, with bigger prize pools and skilled video gamers participating around the world. 

Extended Reality (VR, AR, MR)

Virtual reality (VR) is expected to really take off this year with the launching of the Apple Vision Pro in March 2024. This high-end device is expected to be the most expensive on the market, as it can immerse the player completely in a game. Other kinds of extended reality (XR) modes include augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR). An example of AR gaming is 2016’s Pokemon Go which took the gaming world by storm. The difference with AR, is that it overlays digital objects and sounds over the real world, as with the Pokemon’s players were catching out in the park or by the supermarket.

AR is now being integrated into mobile gaming on a wider scale. The launch of Meta Quest 3 in late 2023 has precipitated AR’s rise in popularity in 2024. Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) games like the hugely popular League of Legends will likely have AR upgrades also. 

What people love about the VR games being released this year is that the majority have a social or competitive aspect to them. With real-time interactions and improved graphics, VR and AR games in 2024 will be more captivating than ever. The AR and VR video game market is projected to reach $11.0 billion by 2026. 

Cloud Gaming

High-speed internet and powerful cloud infrastructure is making gaming more accessible than ever. Gamers no longer have to purchase high-end gaming hardware; they can stream it directly onto their device, whether it’s a smartphone, PC or smart TV. With that comes lower costs and no sacrifice to graphics or performance. Setting up a game is as simple as accessing it through a game library. Players won’t have to worry about computing power or storage and developers don’t have to spend as much money on maintenance and hardware upgrades. Games are being developed more quickly and efficiently to reach a wider audience. 

NFTs and the Blockchain 

In 2024, blockchain technology is sought after as a solution to ownership and security concerns. Digital assets, known as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are being traded on blockchain networks as skins, characters and other game items. Blockchain technology ensures that these transactions are transparent and secure, reducing risk of fraud and unauthorised modifications and enhancing the uniqueness of in-game assets. 

Cryptocurrency-based games will also be a prominent trend in 2024. Similar to NFTs, crypto-based gaming is highly secure and transparent. This is particularly relevant for betting games which involve large sums of money. Players can receive prizes directly into their crypto wallets, and game outcomes are recorded on a decentralised ledger. The blockchain gaming market is estimated to grow to $65.7 billion by 2027 as more games will be developed using blockchain technology. 

GTA 6 

This list couldn’t go without an honourable mention to GTA6. Since the release of the trailer in late 2023, this most recent instalment of the Grand Theft Auto series is being hyped up even though it isn’t due for release until 2025. With fans discussing theories online and such a large community of players, it’s likely to inspire many new gaming trends this year.