In this article, we will discuss the top trends in game development that are expected to shape the industry in 2023. The mobile gaming industry has been rapidly expanding, outperforming all expectations, and becoming one of the most attractive and lucrative sectors globally.
With over three billion gamers worldwide, the future of mobile game development looks promising and innovative. Therefore, developers need to keep track of the latest trends in game development to produce original and real-time strategy games while managing risks and challenges in the gaming industry. By doing so, they can better understand the needs and actions of potential players.
Before discussing the top game development trends for 2023, let’s look at some interesting facts and statistics about the gaming industry. According to Mordor Intelligence, the gaming industry’s value is expected to reach $339.5 billion by 2027. Additionally, GlobalData predicts that mobile gaming revenue will exceed $272 billion by 2030.
SensorTower estimates that player investment in Google Play and App Stores will reach $138 billion by 2025. Furthermore, mobile games are expected to generate 71% of Google Play revenue and 42% of App Store revenue by 2025. In 2021, Asia dominated the global video game business, with nearly 1.48 billion players, followed by Europe, with over 715 million players, according to Statista.
Industry experts predict that game streaming is the future of gaming, and it is expected to be feasible by 2025. Now, let’s delve into the top trends in video game development for 2023.
- Blockchain-Based Gaming: Blockchain technology is becoming an essential part of the gaming space, providing companies with secure environments and preventing unauthorized transactions. The integration of blockchain and cryptocurrency technology has led to the emergence of new game genres, including pay-to-win, play-to-win, and NFT-based games. MarketsandMarkets predicts that the global blockchain gaming market will grow at a CAGR of 70.3% from USD 4.6 billion in 2022 to USD 65.7 billion by 2027. Blockchain development ensures that in-game purchases worth $168 billion are safe and secure.
- Cloud-Based Gaming: Subscription models motivate developers to relate various payment methods to player strengths, making it easier for players to act quickly and shrewdly to gain some strength. This trend also allows developers to benefit from consumers who turn on their PCs, smartphones, laptops, etc., to browse remote servers and play cloud games without the need for special gear.
- eSports Gaming Industry: eSports have been a popular trend in the mobile gaming sector for a while, viewed as a competitive game for seasoned players and video game fans. People follow and watch these games worldwide, whether directly on TV, at live events, or by browsing online resources. With the aid of live streaming services, users can watch and play their favorite games live. According to Statista, the global eSports market was worth over $1.38 billion in 2022, and it is anticipated that the market will generate $1.87 billion in revenue by 2025.
- Crypto Gaming: Cryptocurrency has become increasingly popular due to its high level of security and traceability, leading companies to invest in crypto games. Unlike centralized games in the past, where characters, skins, weapons, and all other codes could not be used for any other game, everyone connected to the game can hold a stake in crypto games. Therefore, players can transfer their prizes and purchases to other games. Blockchain networks power these games, providing equal access to information to all connected computers, decentralizing control, and granting players and creators equal power and authority. Developers can use a blockchain to power the entire game or just as in-game money. Additionally, users may sell I and digital assets are projected to reach $1.7 trillion by 2023, according to a report by Crypto.com. With the growing popularity of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, it is no surprise that crypto gaming is becoming increasingly popular.
- AI-Powered Gaming Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly, and its impact on the gaming industry is becoming more significant. AI can be used to create more realistic and immersive gaming experiences, as well as to improve game mechanics, graphics, and sound effects.
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AI-powered games can adapt to the player’s behavior, making the game more challenging and engaging. In addition, AI can help game developers to optimize the game’s performance and identify potential issues before the game is released.
The global AI in gaming market size is projected to reach $4.5 billion by 2024, according to a report by MarketsandMarkets. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for AI-based games, as well as the growing adoption of AI technology in the gaming industry.
- Cross-Platform Gaming Cross-platform gaming allows players to play the same game on multiple devices and platforms, such as PC, console, and mobile. This trend is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows players to access their favorite games from any device, at any time.
Game developers are also benefiting from cross-platform gaming, as it allows them to reach a wider audience and increase their game revenue. According to a report by Newzoo, the global cross-platform gaming market is projected to reach $7.5 billion by 2021.
In conclusion, the game development industry is constantly evolving and adapting to new trends and technologies. In 2023, we can expect to see more blockchain-based games, cloud-based gaming, eSports, crypto gaming, AI-powered games, and cross-platform gaming. Game developers who keep up with these trends will be well-positioned to succeed in this exciting and lucrative industry.