There is hardly another industry that is on a steeper upward trajectory than the gaming market. While trends come and go in other sectors, innovations in this area are in a constant race. No sooner has something new emerged, considered barely possible, than an even more innovative idea follows, with trends coexisting, merging, and inspiring gamers day after day. Below are the latest trends. But be aware: what’s the hottest thing today could be overshadowed tomorrow by the next sensation, making the world of gaming even more limitless!
Trend Number 1: Be Generous, More Generous, Most Generous
Who would have thought in the past that a customer just wanting to play could do so with little or no cost? Bonus offers are now standard from iGaming providers and sometimes border on the unbelievable. If you’re in the mood for spontaneous gambling, you can visit Hidden Jack without even having to search for it. Providers are handing out bonus codes left and right. This is the clear picture that emerges when looking at the gambling industry: gifts as far as the eye can see. And of course, there are real chances to win. In this niche, the risk is always part of the equation. Or should we say the excitement? Regardless, with a bonus offer or in free mode, the risks remain mental, sparing your wallet.
The trend toward bonus generosity isn’t just about the thrill of the game. It’s a shift that appeals to the growing number of players who are looking for ways to enjoy their favourite games without heavy financial commitment. With gaming providers offering enticing bonus codes, free play options, and regular promotions, players can enjoy high-quality experiences without breaking the bank. This shift has contributed to a growing market where casual and serious gamers alike can access their entertainment with little upfront investment.
Trend Number 2: National Licences in the Gaming Industry
The expansion of online casinos in Australia has sparked an exciting innovation in the gaming market. Just a few months ago, players in the country were seeking a provider with arcade machines that could prove they held a legitimate Australian licence, but such options were hard to find. However, the situation has changed, and this shift marks a major milestone in the industry. With the introduction of tighter regulations and local standards, online gambling providers in Australia are now required to meet specific criteria for licensing, providing increased assurance of trustworthiness for players.
The increased issuance of Australian gambling licences has significantly boosted the security and reliability of online casinos. Providers who successfully qualify for an Australian licence are now part of a highly regulated environment, ensuring both the safety of transactions and the fairness of games. For Australian players, this means a higher level of confidence when gambling online. In fact, the accessibility of reputable online casinos with Australian licences is reshaping the gambling landscape. Virtual casinos have become trusted, accessible hubs for gamers across the nation, offering a safe and secure environment that encourages more players to join in. Whether through a smartphone, tablet, or PC, Australians can now enjoy a variety of exciting gaming options with peace of mind.
Trend Number 3: These Genres Are Trending
In addition to casino titles, many other genres are gaining immense popularity in the gaming market. The number one spot is undoubtedly held by the Action-RPG genre, which has seen a massive increase in players, thanks to titles like Path of Exile and Grim Dawn. Moreover, the audience for these games is constantly growing, with many players now investing significant time in exploring vast, immersive worlds and engaging in intricate character-building mechanics. This genre offers players an engaging blend of action-packed combat, detailed storylines, and deep customization, making it particularly attractive to those looking for a more involved gaming experience.
Real-time strategy (RTS) games have also seen a resurgence in popularity, attracting thousands of new fans each month. Classics like Starcraft 2 remain ever-popular, proving that the core concept of strategic warfare and resource management still holds a special place in the hearts of gamers. While many newer genres have emerged, RTS games maintain a loyal fanbase and show no signs of fading into obscurity. Meanwhile, fighting games such as Tekken, Super Smash Bros., and Street Fighter have also seen substantial growth, with a nearly 200,000 increase in monthly viewers over the past year. These titles, which rely heavily on skill-based gameplay and competitive multiplayer modes, continue to attract both new players and esports enthusiasts.
While Action-RPGs and RTS games currently dominate, another genre steadily gaining momentum is the MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena). Games like League of Legends and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang have introduced a fresh, competitive element to online gaming, and with millions of active players worldwide, MOBAs continue to expand. This genre’s explosive growth is a sign of how competitive multiplayer experiences are shaping the future of gaming. However, only time will tell if any of these genres will overtake the current market leaders, or if they will simply coexist and create an even broader gaming landscape.
Trend Number 4: Which Titles Are Currently the Most Popular?
Now that you know the trending genres, let’s take a closer look at the specific titles that are dominating the Australian gaming market. By far, the most purchased title of the year is Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. Released in 2020, it has gained massive popularity in 2021 due to its sophisticated mechanics, immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging online modes. As one of the leading first-person shooters, Black Ops Cold War continues to attract both new players and veteran fans of the Call of Duty franchise. The game’s campaign mode, multiplayer options, and special modes such as Zombies have kept it relevant well beyond its initial release.
In the sports genre, MLB: The Show 21 stands out as the top title, wowing players with its detailed gameplay, realistic animation, and photorealistic graphics. The baseball simulator has taken the world by storm and is considered one of the best sports video games available. Similarly, Resident Evil: Village, the highly anticipated sequel to Biohazard, is another title that has captured the attention of millions. Its improved gameplay, captivating story, and dark atmosphere have drawn in a large fanbase, further solidifying Resident Evil as a major franchise in the horror genre. This game’s success, particularly with its chilling environments and combat mechanics, is a testament to the enduring popularity of survival horror experiences.
Trend Number 5: VR and AR Gaming
Virtual reality (VR) is more than just a trend—it’s a groundbreaking shift in the way we experience digital worlds. The advancement of VR technology has been rapid, with new headsets like the Valve Index and Oculus Quest bringing 3D immersive experiences to the masses. These devices, combined with a growing library of VR titles such as Half-Life: Alyx, Boneworks, Five Nights at Freddy’s VR: Help Wanted, Superhot VR, and Beat Saber, have brought virtual reality closer to the mainstream. These games use sensors, controllers, and in some cases, motion tracking to immerse players in dynamic, action-packed scenarios, making them feel like they are truly part of the game. With the demand for VR experiences growing, it’s clear that VR is here to stay, and the future of gaming is increasingly focused on fully immersive worlds.
In contrast, augmented reality (AR) gaming offers a more integrated experience with the real world, using the camera capabilities of smartphones and tablets. AR games allow players to interact with their environment in exciting new ways. Titles like Pokemon Go and Minecraft Earth have gained worldwide attention for blending digital gaming experiences with physical spaces. Pokemon Go encourages players to explore their neighborhoods in search of virtual creatures, while Minecraft Earth enables users to build and interact with Minecraft creations in real-world locations. This innovative approach to gaming has captivated millions and shows that gaming can be an interactive and social experience that transcends screens.
As the technologies behind VR and AR continue to evolve, there’s no doubt that the future of gaming will see even more dynamic and interactive experiences. The combination of immersive virtual worlds and augmented reality is transforming the way players engage with their surroundings, creating a limitless future for the gaming industry.