5 Biggest Trends in Gaming
1. Longer Console Cycles
Look back 5 years. Which consoles were out at that time? That's right, the big three are still kickin' it. It seems odd to say that Sony's Playstation 2 had an astounding ten year life cycle - continuing to sell significant numbers even in light of the Playstation 3's release - but that's the case. The Playstation 3, now approaching its 6 year of life, still has a lot of life in it with a myriad of respectable titles being released on the system approaching the end of its life cycle. This is in stark contrast to the days of the Nintendo 64 and original Playstation where console's were supported substantially less by developers at the 5 year mark. Microsoft's Xbox 360 is approaching its 7th year and before you hit the nail in the coffin remember that there are still first party titles being released for the console. This is a reality that consumers are content with because it means that they can play great games for an entire console's life rather than a slow regression at even the sound of a new successor - namely Nintendo's Wii U. A pleasant reality. It gives industrial analysts and consumers alike a new scope to view the market especially with titles possessing astounding visuals and gameplay - the best the industry has ever seen - 7 years into a generation's life. ------
These trends will surely continue as they provide a testament to the potent nature that the games industry possesses moving forward.