Top 5 Gaming Trends: How Manufacturers Can Help Level Up The Industry

Written by: Paul Fanning | Published: 08/24

Staying ahead of the latest tech and software is crucial in the dynamic gaming industry. Gamers get it, but others might fall behind. This blog bridges that gap, offering key insights into the top five gaming trends and showcasing how partnering with manufacturers can drive these exciting advancements.

1. Cloud Gaming

Cloud gaming is a revolutionary technology that enables users to play video games on their existing devices, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. This innovation can disrupt the video game console industry, as consumers may opt to access games through the cloud rather than purchasing traditional consoles. This shift in consumer behaviour presents both a potential challenge and an exciting opportunity for market players to devise innovative strategies, enhance the cloud gaming experience, and attract more user.

2. Sensory revolution in VR and AR Gaming

The AR and VR technologies, while not so new anymore, continue to evolve and surprise with new features and designs. See how Protolabs collaborated with OVR Technology to incorporate components into their new headset, allowing players to smell their game surroundings!

Fitness gaming is also gaining traction in VR, offering new ways for consumers to workout while playing interactive games.

3. Gamechanger - Generative AI in Gaming

The concept of Generative AI in gaming is a game-changer, allowing players to modify game elements and characters in real time, thereby personalizing the game to their input. The metaverse is constantly evolving, and there are predictions that Generative AI could be integrated in the future to enhance the user experience, further blurring the line between the real world and virtual reality. More importantly, Generative AI opens up new possibilities for 3D CAD design and 3D printing, democratizing these fields and allowing anyone with a passion for design to become a CAD design specialist.

4. Nano-Enhanced Gaming

Nanotechnology has revolutionised the gaming industry, leading to remarkable advancements in VR headsets and the introduction of cutting-edge products. Nanotechnology has significantly enhanced gaming experiences by improving sensors, visuals, communication, and sound in VR headsets while also advancing motion-tracking capabilities. Integrating biometric and emotion-sensing technologies allows games to adapt and respond to users' emotional states by monitoring indicators such as heart rate and facial expressions.

5. Ergonomic Designs and Custom Moulds

The continuous advancement of technology and, more importantly, design has opened up endless possibilities. Ergonomic design is crucial in the gaming industry, allowing for the creation of new products, such as controllers and gaming accessories tailored to gamers' personal needs. These advancements aim to enhance gameplay and cater to competitive gaming.

Manufacturers are vital in bringing creative ideas to life in the gaming industry, utilising techniques like 3D printing, CNC machining, and injection moulding. Companies like Protolabs provide pre-production services and expert engineering support, enabling game developers and designers to accelerate production and bring innovations to the market faster.

With 3D printing, manufacturers can easily adapt to new trends and consumer demands, fostering creativity and producing complex game accessories and equipment. This technology also offers unparalleled customisation, enabling the creation of unique components. As the gaming industry evolves, 3D printing will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future.

For further information on Protolabs, please read more here, book a meeting with one of our applications engineers, call +44 (0) 1952 683047, or email customerservice@protolabs.co.uk.