With new generations of gamers entering the scene, we can only wait and see the new types of online games that will emerge to conquer the market. After all, it is no secret that Generation Z no longer wants to spend hours watching TV, but rather chooses online gaming instead. According to some stats, 87% of members of Gen Z choose gaming over any other form of entertainment. Why is it so, and what to expect in the near future, we asked Gilfred Helmonsen?
Helmonsen is more of a millennial than a Z’er, yet he is very familiar with the numbers mentioned above. As a lifelong gaming fan and true professional (read his bio here), he is always open to discussion about the new pastime that has conquered the world. “It is fun. It is convenient. It is always available. What is not to like? Also, Ethereum and crypto casinos are cheaper than ever, so you can handle all transactions discreetly”, he says.
According to our specialist, gaming is more accessible than it used to be: “When I was younger it was not uncommon to visit special casino establishments to enjoy games, and now everyone has a console in their pocket. And not one, but many. Play online casino in the morning, Hearthstone during the lunch break, and poker in the evening, without ever switching the device.” In order to understand the upcoming trends, Helmonsen provided much-needed expertise and predictions.
VR Entertainment for Adults
“VR has been out and about for quite a while, but I think in the upcoming five years we’ll note a significant increase of VR gaming of all kinds. Whether it be a live casino, poker, or classic fantasy gaming that has nothing to do with gambling, VR will be the main force in the gaming industry”, predicts our expert.
Even Time magazine claims virtual reality will change the world, but not everyone is excited about it. Helmonsen says there are many who consider VR to be the final nail in the coffin of the human race as we know it, as it will reduce social interaction to a minimum. He personally believes it is not as dangerous as some might suggest, but it definitely has its flaws: “As always, it is new, exciting, and highly unregulated, yet has immense growth potential. Also, it might be used for distribution of pornography, morally ambiguous experiences, and similar staff that might not get the approval of the general public”, he claims. Another downside is the price. The most popular VR set, Oculus, is priced between $300 and $700, an amount not everyone can afford.
Social Gaming: New Face of Casino Games
And while the latest Oculus set might set you back big time, there is a new trend that costs only a fraction of the price – social gaming. Social gaming is an expression that has been buzzing around for ages, yet it is hard to pinpoint what it exactly is. Our specialist took a shot at it!
“It can be considered two things. First, it can be gaming that takes on social media. For instance, online slots with no real money involved, but rather virtual diamonds, stars, and whatnot. The other definition is the type of gaming that helps you build stronger connections with fellow players as you work together towards the goal”, explains Helmonsen.
Norwegian gaming guru says how the term “goal” should be taken with a grain of salt, as the goal doesn’t have to be common, but can be individual, as well. For instance, at crypto casinos, gamers can share their coins with others, borrow credits or simply “make it rain” by paying for a feature that will be beneficial for everyone involved.
“Social gaming is not exactly new. In fact, it has been around for decades. Ever heard of bingo? Well, it is probably the oldest type of social game. You won’t mind the person sitting next to you winning when you are losing, and you will still have a nice chat and a cup of coffee together”, concludes the gaming insider.
New Genres Being Born
The new generation of online games also brings completely new genres to the table. It might seem impossible, yet gaming companies manage to deliver new and unique approaches towards gaming. The best-known revolutionary type of gaming is live casino gaming shows. They mix and match the rules, features, and looks of different games to provide a dynamic and thrilling experience. But there’s more!
“Gaming companies have taken it up a notch! Some of them are testing casino games that combine quests, such as those in League of Legends or World of Warcraft, with casino gambling. It is a relatively new and unknown concept, but it will definitely find its spot on the market”, claims Helmonsen.
Will the Obsession Last?
With all these new trends on the horizon, it is completely natural to wonder whether they are here to stay, or will they be just a short-term fad that won’t attract a loyal following. Helmonsen is pretty open about how demanding the new generation of the audience is, and how it doesn’t settle for less: “Their attention span is much shorter than it was with generations born 50 or 70 years ago. Furthermore, they don’t compromise. If companies can’t spark their interest within the first few seconds, they are pretty much doomed. On top of all that, brands must make sure they keep them engaged, which is, again, quite a challenge due to the short attention span.”
The new generation of online games will, without a doubt, have to be completely adjusted to the expectations of young customers that are taking over the market. With money in their hands and more refined tastes than ever before, Z’ers do not make compromises nor waste their precious time. It is up to gaming companies and online casino operators to fulfill the needs of the new type of consumer that knows what they want and is not afraid to demand it.