What was once just a side hobby for many has become something much bigger. Esports is reaching the levels of traditional sports, thanks to the technology that has made it all possible. With gaming fans tuning into competitions and professional gamers building huge fanbases, there’s something to be said about the technological innovations that are driving competitive gaming. Take a look at what we mean:
The hardware
One of the most obvious ways that technology has made gaming and esports better is with the hardware. Gaming hardware has advanced over the last few years, providing gamers with the systems and tools to excel at their games. Without it, Esports may not be the big deal it is today.
From the high refresh gaming monitors to the processors and the graphic cards, everything is designed with better visuals and audio, plus speed in mind. It’s in everything you use; your laptop, your keyboard, your headset, and your mouse have all been designed with comfort, speed, and gaming agility in mind. Whether you’re using the Xbox series X wireless headset or you’re using the latest gaming laptop from Asus, competing in esports competitions is made easier, thanks to the hardware technology of today.
AI improvements
If there’s an industry where AI is excelling, it’s in gaming. It can even act as a coach in some ways, making it easier for gamers to identify their weaknesses, find solutions, and improve their game. It’s also used in everything from storytelling to the graphics, but the way that it allows esports gamers to train is incomparable. AI exercises allow players to see the ways that they can improve in a much faster time than if they were working with a human coach.
Better streaming and cloud gaming
We used to play Mario on our T.V. with our controller and that was that. But with cloud gaming and better streaming technology, gamers can play games however they want. What this has done has made it easier for more people to join in gaming competitions and hone their skills, even if they don’t have a more traditional set-up. High-end gaming is now possible without high-end gaming hardware for many platforms, such as YouTube Gaming and Twitch. With low latency streaming better than it’s ever been, cloud gaming is better than it’s ever been, making it a no-brainer for players who want to enter the elite world of Esports.
VR and AR
With VR and AR continuing to advance and becoming a key part of the gaming scene, it makes sense that the world of gaming competitions would also see VR and AR technology as a must-have in Esports. Onward and Echo VR are especially popular for those who want to use VR in their gaming while AR is seen more on the presentation and viewing experience side of things. Either way, this technology continues to show up in big ways on the Esports scene.
Blockchain, NFT, and anti-cheat
One can’t forget how blockchain and NFTs are also now being incorporated into esports, with fan engagement skyrocketing thanks to the way it allows them to have a more interactive experience. Gamers can do anything from buying to selling and trading their virtual stuff in a secure way and as every sports fan knows, collectibles are the way to go. Additionally, anti-cheat systems are getting better so that there is more legitimacy and “policing” of esports for a transparent and reliable competitive experience.
In Conclusion
Esports have only gotten better thanks to the technology behind them. From the tools the players use to the technology that allows almost anyone to have access to online worlds, there are more people playing and engaging with esports than in times past. And it’s a trend that continues upward thanks to how technology continues to advance.