The pinnacle of any gaming platform has evolved due to the introduction of online gaming. Its height has risen drastically due to the introduction of cross-platform multiplayer games. Thereby, even in terms of consoles such as Playstation or Xbox can compete against the biggest shark in the field of gaming, PC (Personal Computers). Although small and compact in size, Nintendo, with the introduction of WII and Nintendo Switch are also viewed as strong options. The biggest example would be the line-up for Super Mario. Even though single-player games have dominated the market for the longest period, the thrill in access to games such as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, in contrast with Fortnite, Rainbow Six Siege and Apex Legends are continuously viewed at the top of chart from editors, such as Gamestop.
The means of having a multi-player game, enables friends to spend hours together as if they are free from the lockdown. Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, such aforementioned platforms and games have given the world a chance to immerse into a completely different sensation, almost as if the players are in the same room; in direct contact with one another.
Streaming such games and posting them online on Twitch or Youtube has helped gamers all around the world to have a voice. Even though which genre an individual prefers, Storyline: Hack and Slash or First Person Shooter (FPS) can often be found as thrilling option to a variety of people. Yet, most streamers play online multiplayer games, due to the interaction that is enabled between the gamer and their fans. A perfect example is that of the gamer, PewdiePie.
The vital essence of online gaming is the credit the gamer earns from the views of the game itself, and by the means of a sponsorship. Sponsors are often seen to be active in the form of merchandise, be it T-shirts with the gamer’s logo or simply through energy drinks such as Monster, among many others.
Although, this new era has given a voice to many online streamers, rival solo based games are still high in demand, as seen from the “Game of the Year” award. God of War won the award back when it was released. However, Overwatch has also won this award due to the simplicity of the game’s dynamics. It is debatable that such single player games are more focused on blood and gore, children are exposed to its violent behavior. Whereas in online-gaming the splash of blood is minimal, producing adrenaline rushes per kill.
The world is changing, and with that the consoles are changing as well, which can be shown by the introduction of PS5’s Digital only games. This allows for ease of purchase for any video game online. Simulator games such as Forza and Flight Simulator help in educating individuals who want to learn or practice techniques of flying or driving on a real-time basis. However, the validation of multiplayer FPS games are valued in the form of exposure and monetary transactions through live streaming, a century's worth of applause to making money sitting at home. Tournaments around the world, including that of WCG (World Cyber Games), have thousands of followers interacting with each other with games such as FIFA or World of Warcraft to Rainbow Six Siege, alongside many others.
Online games are still at a rise; given the current circumstances, the ability to enjoy games with the ease of laying back with a bag of Cheetos, munching about whilst enjoying an experience with a friend is nothing less than a surreal experience.