What Are the Hottest Gaming Trends of 2024?
As we bid farewell to 2023, a year that saw the gaming industry reach new heights and break exciting ground, we can't help but reflect on one burning question: What was the biggest gaming industry trend in 2023? The answer, it seems, lies in the incredible surge of cloud gaming services and the ongoing evolution of immersive experiences.
But now, as we step into 2024, we're ready to embark on a new journey into the future of gaming. Join us as we unravel the trends in gaming that are set to shape the landscape in the year ahead. From groundbreaking technologies to shifting player preferences such as games with realistic graphics, here is a guide through the thrilling world of gaming in 2024.
The Five Gaming Trends Expected to Grow or Take Off in 2024
1. Augmented Reality to Be a Big Hit
It's impossible to ignore the growing influence of Augmented Reality (AR). The foundation for this remarkable shift was laid in late 2023, with the launch of Meta Quest 3.
One of the standout features of Meta Quest 3 that has been celebrated by early adopters is its front-facing cameras, boasting a full-color display that seamlessly blends the digital and physical worlds. This groundbreaking technology allows users to perceive the world around them while immersing themselves in the wonders of AR gaming. The display is very accurate, with no recorded issues of players complaining about hitscan or lag.
It's safe to assume that many will have found Meta Quest 3 beneath the Christmas tree, further fueling its popularity. With a growing user base, AR is set to be one of the defining gaming trends of 2024.
2. More Hype to Build Around GTA VI
There are few AAA games as big as the Grand Theft Auto series. It has created one of the hottest social gaming trends in recent years, with many people jumping online and roleplaying in GTA Online. And it's likely to set off entirely new social trends as people get together to discuss what is next for the series.
In late 2023, fans were teased with a trailer for the next installment. It isn't due for release until 2025, which will be 12 years since the last game in the series, but that won't stop the hype building.
3. Cloud Gaming Subscriptions to Soar
Although it has been around for a while, services like Google Stadia have shut down, and there are plenty of complaints about the state of Sony's servers when it comes to cloud gaming. However, Xbox Games Pass Ultimate has been an amazing success story, and with Netflix investing in its gaming content and launching its PC Beta, cloud gaming will be one of the biggest gaming industry trends.
Sure, some people, especially the completionist type, may not be too into it because games can come and go. But usually, there is plenty of time to unlock achievements and complete all games before anything disappears. And with the titles such as GTA III, GTA Vice City, and GTA San Andreas having recently landed on Netflix Games mobile, it's sure to kick-start one of the hottest mobile gaming trends.
4. An Increase in the Use of AI in Gaming
One of the hottest topics in the world these last few months has been about AI, and how it is potentially changing the landscape of the world as we know it. Businesses are looking at ways to implement it to help workforces become more efficient, which has brought about worries about layoffs. And there is no doubt that we will see AI becoming one of the biggest gaming trends as it becomes used more in game development.
The question that remains is what impact will it have. Will it be a positive one for the gamers? Will AI help deliver better products? Or could it make things worse? Only time will tell on that one.
5. Streamers Moving Away From Twitch
Twitch is the largest platform for gamers who like to stream content. You can find streamers on there playing almost anything from MMO or MMORPG games to party games they play with their communities that use mechanics like quick time events (QTE). And while watching people play games is one of the biggest gaming trends right now, we can see a lot of people walking away from it.
Why? Because Twitch temporarily changed the terms of service for their site to allow 'artistic' nudity. The backlash regarding this change has since seen Twitch reverse its decision. But considering there has already been upset regarding changes to partnerships and monetization this year, and complaints about Twitch not taking online abuse seriously, we could see some big names begin to move away from the platform.
Many have already jumped ship to a new rival, Kick, including the likes of xQc and Adin Ross. And with the platform bumping up its marketing by buying sponsorship placements on the kit of Everton FC, we could see it grow into a real contender in the new year. Especially if Twitch keeps on making changes that upset its users.
So What Does the Future Hold?
As we step into 2024, the gaming industry is poised for remarkable developments. AR will likely be the standout gaming trend, with Meta Quest 3 leading the way. But there is also going to be some serious hype surrounding GTA VI, in addition to cloud gaming subscriptions, propelled by Xbox Games Pass Ultimate and Netflix Games.
Other social gaming trends that are looking like they could take off include an increase in people buying mobile gaming systems. The Steam Deck recently received an upgrade with a better battery, form factor, and display, while Lenovo has unveiled its handheld Legion console, and rumors of a potential new Switch release are on the horizon.
Then you have more gamers flocking to platforms like TikTok for content creation, so it won't be surprising if, on the back of the Twitch news, more streamers follow suit. The only thing guaranteed though is that 2024 looks like it could have a lot going on right across the board. But only time will tell which of these trends truly take off.
