CheckMag | Gaming in 2024: Top 4 trends to watch out for including AI and AR

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are set to make significant strides in the gaming industry. This evolution traces back to late 2023, marked by the releases of Meta Quest 3 (available on BestBuy) and Apple Vision Pro in February 2024.

AR, gaining popularity with games like Pokemon Go, is now set to enhance Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas (MOBAs) like League of Legends and Dota 2. This integration will add a new layer to the gaming experience.

Meanwhile, the VR landscape is set to transform Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs), with games like Gorilla Tag and Ghosts of Tabor drawing in millions of daily players.

The integration of AR and VR into mobile and wearable devices is key to this growth, fueled by consumer interest in immersive experiences. VR gaming devices, including headsets and controllers, offer interactive experiences. In contrast, AR games combine digital elements with the real-world environment, creating a unique and accessible gaming format. The widespread use of smartphones has also boosted AR gaming, allowing for innovative storytelling in games.

In the gaming world of 2024, AI and ML are at the forefront, innovating in game creation and enhancing playability. These technologies are key in generating dynamic game content, including levels and maps, and personalizing gaming experiences by analyzing player behavior and preferences. This leads to adaptive difficulty levels, tailored in-game content recommendations, and storylines that react to player choices.

The role of AI and ML extends to developing more lifelike and complex NPC behaviors, enhancing voice and natural language interaction in games. They are also streamlining game testing and debugging, providing essential support in game design.

Moreover, AI and ML are improving various aspects of gaming, such as graphics, security, matchmaking, storytelling, and analyzing player behavior. These advancements offer game developers critical insights for creating immersive and engaging experiences. An example of this is seen in The Last of Us Part II Remastered, where AI contributes to highly realistic and responsive enemy behaviors.

The gaming world is currently experiencing a nostalgic revival, with an increase in the popularity of retro game consoles and mini consoles pre-loaded with classic titles. This trend is characterized by the launch of devices that replicate vintage consoles and computers, designed for seamless connectivity with contemporary TVs.

There's growing speculation about potential re-releases, including Sega's iconic Mega Drive and Dreamcast. Additionally, there are rumors about Capcom's anticipated remake of Resident Evil, and Nintendo's plans for introducing retro offerings alongside the launch of the Switch 2. This resurgence of classic gaming is capturing the imagination of both old-school gamers and new enthusiasts alike.

Netflix is expanding its gaming presence, offering a range of downloadable mobile games, including acclaimed titles like Immortality, Into the Breach and Oxenfree II. Despite the growth, mobile subscription services like Netflix Games and Apple Arcade still occupy a small market share compared to free-to-play games.

But Netflix is broadening its gaming scope beyond mobile platforms, experimenting with cloud streaming of games on TVs. With its vast subscriber base of approximately 247 million, the company's venture into TV-based game streaming could significantly elevate its status in the gaming industry. They're also developing a major game in collaboration with Joseph Staten, known for his work on Halo.

The year 2024 could mark a turning point for streaming video games, with Amazon, Nvidia, and Xbox Game Pass showing improvements in 2023. Sony's PlayStation Portal sold out fast, and the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is proving effective for gaming on ChromeOS. Google's decision to abandon Stadia could be a missed opportunity in this growing market.