In the world of gaming, change is the only constant. As we journey through 2023, several key trends are shaping the gaming landscape, from the blending of entertainment and gaming to the exploration of the metaverse, the expansion of esports, and more. Let's delve into these trends and see what's hot in the gaming world this year.
The Convergence of Entertainment and Gaming
Have you ever noticed the growing overlap between the realms of entertainment and gaming? This year, the boundary has become even more blurred【31†source】. Why, you ask? Well, in the face of dwindling ad revenue and dwindling subscriptions, the bigwigs of the entertainment industry are exploring new frontiers. What's their strategy? They're harnessing the power of gaming IP to draw in dedicated fanbases.
Just look at Netflix. They announced in an earnings call that they'd be adding 55 new titles to their game offerings, with many based on existing Netflix IP. It seems the strategy is working too - Riot Games' Netflix animated series "Arcane," set in the world of League of Legends, won an Emmy last year for Outstanding Animated Program. Can you believe that? An Emmy! This trend isn't slowing down, either. Expect to see more franchise adaptations like a Gears of War animated series and film coming soon.
The Metaverse: Not Just a Niche Anymore
Remember when the metaverse seemed like a far-off, abstract concept? Well, hold on to your virtual hats because it's starting to reach mainstream audiences in 2023【32†source】. The metaverse hasn't just landed, it's making waves. New VR models like the Meta Quest and a rumored Apple entry have hit the market, signaling its wider adoption. Brands from various sectors, including traditional sports, fashion, and toys, are embracing the metaverse, creating immersive experiences for their customers.
Take Nike, for example. They recently launched .SWOOSH, a collaborative metaverse space for sneakerheads to collect, trade, and show off Nike virtual products. Users can even attend token-gated events in real life! It's not just the sports sector either. Luxury fashion labels have also stepped into the metaverse, with collaborations like Burberry x Minecraft and Ralph Lauren x Fortnite. The workplace isn't far behind, with experts predicting the use of VR headsets for meetings and social events among remote colleagues. How's that for a staff meeting?
Esports: More Than Just Competition
Esports has long been synonymous with competition. But in 2023, the industry is expanding beyond the borders of competition【33†source】. With tightening budgets, esports organizations are diversifying their revenue streams. They're branching out to include products, merchandise, and an entire content ecosystem driven by top gaming creators on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. Now, esports "fandom" extends to fans of these creators and consumers of industry-driven products.
Consider Complexity Gaming. They launched Complexity Stars, a division of athletes and celebrities aimed at building audiences across gaming and esports. They've included big names like Mexican soccer legend Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez and All Star Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs. This move not only highlights the diverse appeal of the gaming ecosystem but also allows Complexity to deepen its stake among audiences across sports, music, and pop culture.
The Rise of Independent IP Development
Ever notice how many reboots of old favorites are popping up on Netflix or Hulu? That's because risk aversion has led most studios and streamers to revisit the archives of tried-and-true IP. But while nostalgia sells, this shift has made it more difficult for fresh, original IP to get the green light【34†source】. That's where independent creatives come in.
Production companies, startup studios, and independent creatives are launching new IP on social media. Animation studios like Invisible Universe and Moonbug Entertainment distribute original IP on TikTok and YouTube. This strategy allows for direct audience feedback and a more seamless route to building community and fandom. A grassroots-built fanbase can then lead to licensing opportunities, the building blocks of a profitable franchise.
Content Creators Branching Out
Content creators are no longer confined to their social platforms. In fact, they're expanding beyond platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, eyeing a larger growth trajectory【35†source】. They're landing campaigns with big brands, signing deals for scripted series, and even turning their channels into full-fledged retail giants.
Take, for example, Tinx, “the internet’s big sister,” who landed an H&M campaign as part of their Coachella collaboration. Benny Drama, a celebrity impressionist, recently signed a scripted series deal with Amazon. And then there's MrBeast, the world’s most followed YouTuber. He turned his channel into a retail giant with a brick-and-mortar burger shop, delivery ghost kitchen, and a line of cookies sold at Walmart.
Wrapping Up
2023 is proving to be an exciting year for gaming, with trends that are expanding the landscape and blurring the lines between entertainment, gaming, and even retail. With the metaverse going mainstream, esports expanding beyond competition, the rise of independent IP development, and content creators stepping off their platforms, who knows what the rest of the year will bring? One thing is for sure - the gaming world is moving fast, and it's thrilling to be part of the ride!
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