The gaming industry continues to grow rapidly, fueled by technological advancements and an expanding audience. With the global gaming industry forecasted to surpass 200 billion USD by 2027, opportunities for startups to innovate and carve out niches are abundant. From creating unique gaming experiences to providing tools and services for developers and players, here are five promising areas for startups in the gaming industry.
Artificial intelligence (AI), and more particularly LLMs, offer the opportunity for a revolution for non-player characters (NPCs) in video games: computer-controlled characters that interact with players.
For many video game players, specifically in the RPG (role-playing game) genre, interacting with computer-controlled characters is a huge component of the experience. However, lately those interactions are completely scheduled. AI has the potential to revolutionize this: AI-powered NPCs (non-player characters) can be informed by player behavior, adapting their methods and interactions in real time to create more dynamic and unpredictable gaming experiences. Instead of following pre-programmed scripts, modern AI systems allow NPCs to make decisions and react emotionally in realistic, immersive ways.
There are many demanding technical situations to put this into practice, but the company that can crack the code and produce it effectively will likely reap huge rewards. In addition, technological innovations can be simply incremental, as it is possible to use partially AI-generated NPC content (e. g. , for informal in-game interactions) while maintaining the old script design for important occasions. This makes the challenge more available to early-stage startups. who do not have access to many resources.
Developing games for underserved niches offers significant potential. While mainstream games cater to broad audiences, niche games can attract highly engaged communities.
One opportunity lies in creating games that express cultural interests or themes. For example, the game Never Alone (Kisima Inŋitchuŋa) draws inspiration through the stories and traditions of the Iñupiat people of Alaska, offering a unique experience that resonates with players interested in indigenous cultures. Startups can explore other topics or interests, such as vintage recreations, educational games for express topic areas, or games tailored to underrepresented demographics. Furthermore, the progression of niche games also reduces the festival, as major studios focus on blockbuster titles.
The challenge here lies in developing games that are cheap to produce and at the same time attractive-enough to play. With the advancement of game engines provided as a SAAS to small dev studios as well as AI for content generation, the cost of building an indie game could fall significantly. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter can be valuable for gauging interest and securing initial funding for such projects.
The esports industry is experiencing tremendous growth, with global revenues expected to exceed $1.8 billion by 2025. Startups can tap into this market by building platforms and tools to support players, teams, and fans.
Opportunities arise with the creation of platforms for player recruitment and team management. For example, startups can simply expand teams that analyze game knowledge to help groups find skills or optimize their strategies. Another potential domain is fan engagement: creating apps or installations that the viewer delights in through features like real-time statistics, interactive commentary, or augmented truth elements.
Startups can also do so in specialized esports titles or regional markets. While games like League of Legends and Fortnite dominate globally, smaller-scale esports events or lesser-known games can offer startups the opportunity to make an impact.
The increasing complexity of game progression creates a need for equipment and middleware that simplifies processes or quality. Startups that create software to help developers can tap into a lucrative market.
Procedural content generation teams, for example, can save developers time and resources. For example, software developers like Houdini can successfully create giant, detailed environments. Startups can innovate by creating teams that are suitable for independent developers, such as cost-effective answers for character animation or sound design.
Another opportunity lies in the realm of cross-platform compatibility. Developing middleware that helps game developers ensure their games run smoothly on all platforms, from consoles to mobile, can be invaluable. Offering answers that integrate with popular engines like Unity or Unreal The Extra Engine increases your appeal.
As games grow, so does the call for inclusion. Startups can create answers that make games more available to players with disabilities.
Examples come with the evolution of hardware, such as adaptive controllers, or software solutions, such as voice-activated navigation systems or customizable user interfaces. Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller demonstrates the potential impact of available gaming hardware. Startups can expand those efforts by addressing expressed needs, such as visual impairments or limited motor control.
Accessibility also includes offering localized versions of games for non-English speaking audiences. Startups that specialize in high-quality game localization can help developers expand into new markets, while ensuring cultural sensitivity and linguistic accuracy.
A community. Many voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts.
Our network aims to connect others through open and thoughtful conversations. We need our readers to share their perspectives and exchange concepts and facts in one space.
In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site’s Terms of Service. We’ve summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.
Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:
User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:
So, how can you be a user?
Thank you for reading our Community Standards. Read the full list of posting regulations discovered in our site’s Terms of Use.