Looking to develop and launch your new game? Choosing the right video gaming platform is the first step.
But with the sheer amount of choices available, choosing one that meets your business and financial goals can become hard.
This uncertainty can also hinder your decisions, leading to missed opportunities and subpar customer experiences.
Ultimately, leaving a negative impact on your bottom line.
But there’s no need to worry. This comprehensive analysis will help you choose the perfect game platform that will maximize your competitive advantage.
Let’s get started.
Rise of Video Game Market
The video game market is growing exponentially. Showing a rise of $199.74bn in 2022 to $307.19bn by 2029.
This surge is partly attributed to the pandemic, as people sought entertainment during lockdowns. Nintendo’s Animal Crossing is a solid example which sold 22.4m units by the first quarter following its release.
Accessibility of high speed internet has expanded the market of cloud gaming services like Google Stadia and steam gaming platform. These game platforms allow users to play games from virtually anywhere without the need of powerful hardware. Giving businesses a wider target audience to cater to.
Overview of Non-Portable Gaming Platforms
Let’s start by looking at the most popular gaming platforms.
PlayStation:
The PlayStation 5 is one of the best game platforms. Its powerful custom CPU and GPU, and high-speed SSD allows developers to create mind blowing experiences.
As a leading gaming console, the PS5 opens up opportunities for businesses and marketers to reach a large and engaged audience. Some avenues for them to promote their games include advertising, influencer partnerships, and exclusive content opportunities.
Xbox
Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and Series S is a direct playstation competitor. Each offers powerful hardware and an extensive game library.
This game platform also features Xbox Game Pass. It is a subscription service offering access to a wide range of games. Xbox is a go-to for many due to its integration with Microsoft services and backward compatibility, leveraging you a bigger customer base.
Nintendo
Nintendo has carved out its niche with unique gaming experiences and family-friendly titles. Being hybrid they offer both handheld and docked consoles. Allowing developers to reach a wider audience.
Nintendo’s Switch offers exclusive games like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. Nintendo platforms focus more on innovation and gameplay rather than raw power.
PC (Steam, Epic Games)
PC gaming comes with platforms like Steam and Epic Games, offering unmatched flexibility and power. PCs can be customized to fit the highest performance standards, and the vast library of games includes indie titles.
Steam’s community features and regular sales make it a popular choice for business owners and developers, while Epic Games is known for exclusive and free-to-play titles.
Best Portable Video Game Platforms
Nintendo Switch OLED
The Nintendo Switch OLED is the highest rated handheld console available.
key features:
- 7-inch OLED screen
- 64GB internal storage,
- Portable and Docked gaming
It supports popular games like “The Legend of Zelda,” “Animal Crossing,” “Super Mario,” and “Pokemon.”
Valve Steam Deck
The Steam Deck is a powerful handheld gaming PC developed by Valve.
key features:
- Runs on SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system.
- Includes major titles in the Steam library
- Comes with a 7-inch touchscreen
- Comes with Dual analog sticks with gyroscope sensor.
This game platform offers 8 hours of battery life and can connect to external displays for seamless home gaming experience. Its open platform allows users to install third-party applications. Giving businesses and marketers an opportunity to engage with their audience.
Best Gaming Streaming Platforms
Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna is a cloud gaming platform offering multiple subscription channels, including Luna+ and Ubisoft+. It supports a wide range of devices, including Fire TV, PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. Luna provides a flexible and broad selection of streaming titles. It’s easy to set up and offers a seamless gaming experience across multiple devices.
Google Stadia
Google Stadia, another cloud gaming service offers a growing library of powerful games. It supports up to 4K streaming and works across multiple devices. You can play HD games without investing in a console or gaming PC, Stadia’s cloud gaming service is a great alternative.
Understanding Different Types of Games on These Platforms
Platform Games
In platform games, a user navigates a character by jumping between platforms, and avoiding obstacles.
Some tiles include:
- Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo Switch)
- Celeste (available on multiple platforms).
Role-Playing Games (RPGs)
In RPGs, players can control the action of their characters within a structured scenario.
Some popular titles include:
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” (available on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC)
- Final Fantasy VII Remake” (PS5).
Action-Adventure Games
Action adventure games combine the elements of action and adventure. Which are: exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat.
Some popular titles:
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” (Nintendo Switch)
- Red Dead Redemption 2″ (available on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC).
Simulation Games
Simulation games mimic real-world activities such as managing resources, people, or vehicles.
Titles include:
- The Sims 4″ (available on multiple platforms)
- Microsoft Flight Simulator” (Xbox Series X and PC).
Sports Games
These games simulate sports practices such as football, baseball, and fighting sports.
Top tiles:
- FIFA 22 (available on multiple platforms)
- NBA 2K22(available on multiple platforms).
Consider Your Preferences
As of 2024, PC gaming remains the market leader. It offers robust customization and a thriving modding community, and among all the platforms.
Console platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch lead with exclusive franchises and hybrid gaming experiences.
Mobile gaming and cloud-based game platforms are getting a lot of audience. Opening new avenues for businesses to reach a wider audience.
In this growing landscape, a multi platform strategy can maximize your reach and engagement with the gaming community. If you need assistance with strategic decisions and an expert game development or 3d animation services to back your project, contact Prolific Studios today!
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