Video games have not only sustained their popularity throughout the years but greatly increased in popularity and have become a major part of popular culture and enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. So, why have video games become so popular in recent years?
Immersion & Escapism
Globally, people spend an enormous amount of time playing video games. In addition to obviously being good fun and highly engaging, video games can provide a form of immersion that you cannot get with film and TV and the ability to explore new worlds and become different people. This escapism is a key factor in what makes video games so popular and with people of all ages, especially in stressful times such as this.
Market Growing
Additionally, the video game market is constantly increasing and is sharp on the rise. There are constantly impressive new games being released which cover a wide variety of genres, meaning that they appeal to people of all interests, ages, background and genders. Additionally, new consoles are also being developed and people need to buy these to stay current and play the best and latest games. This is why people will look to sell their old consoles once a new one is released so that they can raise the funds to buy a new one.
Retro Gaming on the Rise
While people are obsessed with having the newest console and the latest games, there has also been a surge in popularity in retro gaming. Video games have been around for long enough now that people can go back and enjoy retro games, which is in part for nostalgia and also shows just how far video games have come and improved over the last 30 years or so.
Playing Online
Another major reason that video games have increased in popularity in recent times has been the fact that people can now play online which brings a social element. Most games have an online mode where people can play with/against their friends and/or people from all around the world which certainly adds to the appeal.
Streaming Platforms
Of course, another major reason that video games are exploding in popularity has been the rise of streamlining platforms. A whole new culture has developed involving watching people playing video games live, which in turn will encourage people to play themselves.
As you can see, there are a few reasons why video games are so popular right now and this will only continue in the coming years.