Thriving Video Game Industry in 2023: Reasons Explored

In the world of entertainment, video games have made a significant mark, transforming from a niche amusement to a mainstream global industry. The journey of video games started in the 1960s and 70s, attracting bright minds such as engineers and mathematicians, who played a crucial role in shaping this dynamic industry.

One of the first steps in this transformation was the introduction of home video game systems. Systems like the Atari and the original NES allowed people to play video games at home for the first time, opening up a new era in gaming. Early popular games included Pong, Frogger, Tetris, and Centipede, which despite their simplicity, captured the imagination of millions.

As technology advanced, so did the graphics and gameplay in video games. Today, some video games are so realistic that they appear completely real. This realism, combined with complex storylines, has contributed to the continued success of the industry. Games in the horror and sci-fi genres, for instance, can provide experiences that are as terrifying or thrilling as major Hollywood releases. An animated Super Mario Brothers movie, featuring Hollywood's biggest names, is set to be released this year, further blurring the lines between gaming and cinema.

The introduction of new video game systems has also significantly contributed to the industry's growth. Systems like the SNES, Sega Genesis, N64, and PlayStation, each marked a leap forward in technology, capturing the hearts of gamers worldwide. The PlayStation 2, in particular, was revolutionary and sold exceptionally well.

The latest addition to the video game world is the TV series adaptation of the popular video game, The Last of Us, on HBO. The series has become a runaway hit, with millions of viewers and anticipation for the second season. Characters like Mario, Luigi, Toadstool, Bowser, and Donkey Kong, originating from these games, are recognised by different generations.

Video game characters are not just limited to the screen. People dress up as video game characters for events like Halloween and birthdays, and popular characters are often seen on merchandise. Game enthusiasts are willing to spend their entire paychecks and eat ramen for weeks to afford a new gaming system, such as the recently released PlayStation 5, which often sees lines around the block and quick sell-outs.

The influence of video games extends beyond entertainment. Video game storylines have become culturally significant, creating jobs for various professionals in the entertainment industry. The most influential people and companies shaping the video game industry since the 1960s include key pioneers such as Atari (early arcade and home console games), influential individuals like Nolan Bushnell (founder of Atari), and later figures such as Shigeru Miyamoto of Nintendo, who created iconic games like Mario and Zelda. The Wing Commander series involving Hollywood actors like Mark Hamill also marked important developments in integrating cinematic experiences into games. Major companies like Nintendo, Atari, Sega, Sony, and Microsoft have driven technological and market innovations throughout the industry’s history. These contributors collectively transformed video gaming from a niche amusement to a mainstream global industry.

The impact of video games on people's lives and the world is profound. Video games generate billions in revenue annually, making it a significant player in the global economy. With their growing influence, it is clear that video games are arguably more influential than books, shaping our lives and the world around us.