Augmented Reality games: What does the future hold?

Augmented Reality (AR) has jumped from the realms of science fiction movies and games into our everyday lives, in many ways transforming how we interact with media and digital content.

As revealed by ExpressVPN, AR stands as a beacon of technological advancement, blurring the lines between the physical and virtual worlds. The technology is used in many different ways, such as the integration of AR in navigation systems and even work-related technologies like the Apple Vision Pro.

In the world of video games specifically, we've seen worldwide phenomenon like the outstanding success of Pokémon GO inspire a revolution in mobile gaming, with many developers trying to replicate the success of the Niantic behemoth.

Amidst this evolution, the realm of augmented reality games holds immense promise, offering a glimpse into a future where gaming transcends traditional boundaries, in a similar fashion to how Virtual Reality (VR) has done the past few years.

As we've said, Augmented Reality games have undergone a big evolution, captivating newfound audiences with immersive experiences. The unprecedented success of games like Pokémon GO serves as a testament to the potential of AR in revolutionising gaming. It hasn't been without hiccups along the road, including a big failure from Microsoft trying to push the technology during the Xbox One days, with plans of the then-named Project Scorpio (Xbox One X) to be VR/AR ready being scrapped in 2018.

Still, according to insights from Mobidev, a leading technology consultancy, several up-and-coming technologies/hardware are poised to reshape and help the landscape of AR gaming. Wearable devices, for instance, are set to elevate user experiences by providing a more immersive gameplay environment.

These devices, such as AR glasses, will overlay digital content onto the user's real-world surroundings, creating a seamless fusion of virtual and physical elements, just like Ernest Cline envisioned in Ready: Player One. At the moment, they might be out of reach for the average consumer, with the Apple Vision Pro retailing for as little as $3,500, but if more companies start tapping into the market, more competitive prices could make it a more accessible way of getting into AR gaming.

Moreover, advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are set to revolutionise AR gaming by enabling a more dynamic and personalised experience. AI-driven algorithms will empower virtual characters and environments to adapt in real time, ensuring a unique gaming experience for every player.

Spatial computing, as highlighted by Lion Gaming, is also poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AR gaming. This technology enables devices to perceive and interact with the physical world more intuitively, unlocking a plethora of possibilities for immersive gameplay. Through spatial computing, AR games can create complex virtual environments that integrate with real-world settings, enriching the overall gaming experience.

One of the promises of AR gaming, and for many the reason they exist in the first place, is the enhanced interactivity and social integration, fostering a sense of community among players. Draw & Code, a technology studio based in the UK, emphasises the value of social AR experiences in driving the evolution of gaming. Multiplayer AR games will become more prevalent, enabling players to interact and collaborate in shared virtual spaces. After all, that's what made the Pokémon GO experience so unique - that sense of comradery between every player.

Furthermore, AR games will empower users to create and customise their virtual content, blurring the lines between creators and players. Just like the likes of Minecraft or Roblox, giving players the tools to create their unique worlds will unleash a wave of creativity within the AR gaming community that could help it thrive.

As positive as we've been, the future of AR gaming is not without its challenges. Beyond some of the failures by big companies like Microsoft and the pricey options to get an AR-friendly device, technical constraints such as battery life and processing power continue to pose hurdles in delivering seamless AR experiences. Additionally, privacy and security concerns surrounding AR data collection and user tracking must be addressed to ensure user trust and compliance with regulations.

However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration. According to Knock Knock, a digital marketing agency, addressing these obstacles requires effort from tech companies, game developers, and even policymakers.

The future of augmented reality games is certainly full of potential, mostly fueled by emerging technologies that could be the key to making AR more than just a novelty. From wearable AR devices to spatial computing and enhanced social integration, the possibilities for immersive gameplay are limitless on paper.

There's no questioning that AR gaming is evolving, slowly becoming more accessible and integrated into our daily lives. Collaboration and innovation focused on user experience will help the technology thrive in the mainstream, with the potential to redefine the entertainment, and gaming industries, completely.