From arcade games to augmented reality – video games have come a long way.

Since they burst onto the mainstream market in the 1980s, video games have enjoyed a series of innovations that have propelled them to another level.

We now enjoy immersive graphics and experiences that bring video games to life before our very eyes.

But what are some of the most incredible gaming innovations? Here we take a look at the technology that has transformed the industry:

 

GESTURE CONTROL

Gesture Control allows gamers to command what goes on onscreen using their hands.

Using a camera that tracks separate points in your hand, gesture control allows users to connect with their gaming experience by using the natural movements of your body.

This technology allows users to do away with cumbersome controllers and immerse themselves fully in the gaming experience.

 

VOICE CONTROL

Can’t be bothered to control a game using your body? No problem! Voice control allows you to power the action onscreen using just your voice.

Not only can you turn the console on and off using this tech, but you can also use voice commands to control gameplay, interact on social media, play selections from your media library, or search the web, all by simply talking to your gaming system.

Voice control leaves your hands free to complete other tasks while you play, as well as creating a high level of immersion as you interact with the game and it’s characters within.

 

HIGH-DEF DISPLAYS AND IMPROVED GRAPHICS

We’ve come a long way from the days of basic 8-bit graphics in gaming.

Cutting edge graphics now allow gamers to experience games in fully rendered worlds with photo realistic textures. These higher quality images make it seem like you’re right inside the game.

With gaming graphics this good, you need to have a way to show them off. Ultra 4K gaming has made this a possibility – and you thought 1080p looked good.

 

VIRTUAL AND AUGMENTED REALITY

Virtual and augmented reality gaming has allowed us to travel straight into the gaming world without ever leaving our homes.

Virtual reality headsets allow gamers to explore fantasy surroundings as they turn their heads and move around a room using sensor cameras, and even haptic clothing to physically interact with the game itself.

Augmented reality blends the virtual world and the real world, allowing you to scan certain points using a mobile device to unlock different graphics.

Both of these technologies promote a high level of immersion and allow players to experience the world of a game like never before.

 

WEARABLES

Whether it’s smartwatches or glasses, wearable technology make gaming portable without being too invasive.

Wearable technology first became popular through fitness applications, but now many companies are incorporating entertainment into the mix as well.

Wearables are extensions of the gaming consoles you know and love that allow you to play your favourite games on the go.

 

MOBILE GAMING

With the invention of smartphones, the mobile gaming industry has boomed.

Not only can you communicate with loved ones, schedule your everyday life and capture photos with your phone, you can play all of your favourite games.

Mobile technology has made the love of digital gaming spread beyond hardcore console-consumers and online gamers.

 

LIVESTREAMS

Social media has boomed in recent years, and with it has come livestreams.

Now gamers can share their passion with players across the world by livestreaming their game as they play.

No longer is gaming a solitary process, now you can not only play with others across the world, you can also watch and discuss games as you watch someone play.

 

CLOUD-BASED GAMING

Instead of creating video game systems that require more powerful hardware, developers have turned to the cloud.

Games no longer need be limited by the amount of memory that discs or consoles have to offer.

The cloud opens games up to massive server-size limits where images are streamed to your screen through the Internet, leaving you free to enjoy immersive gaming without lag or storage issues.

 

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artificial intelligence is no longer just the product of Sci-Fi films – it’s very real, and has transformed the gaming world.

The most established form of AI in a video game entails having a computer opponent,

Programmers have actively sought out ways to have these enemies self-learn, in order to create a variable gaming experience that not only increases in difficulty but keeps the players’ experience fresh.

 

E-SPORTS

E-Sports is a trend whereby a competition, whether that be online or offline, is held and the professional players with their respective electronic devices take part so as to win the prize money.

Not only do a lot of gamers take part in these contests, there is also a large live audience that can witness the action.

The trend has seen a huge rise since the year 2000, and it doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

Do you want to hire gaming equipment for your next event? Contact ITR today to learn more.