We don’t tend to break down internet functionality too much. Still, it’s fair to say that it has become a primary source of entertainment over time, just as it’s changed how we communicate, how we do our jobs, and how we consume information. Through everything from browser-based arcades to smartphone streaming apps, the internet constantly gives us newer and better ways to keep ourselves entertained. And given that this isn’t going to change in the future, we thought what some of the next trends in this regard might be.
Virtual Reality Connections
Virtual Reality ConnectionsVirtual reality has already been a fairly major development for the video gaming world. And rest assured, it’s not just an individual activity that takes place offline. There are multiplayer VR games as well, and there only figure to be more over time. In another few years, we may see online VR gaming environments every bit as popular as, say, the multiplayer maps in major console shooting games.
Even beyond gaming, though, VR will provide additional types of entertainment through connections to the internet. For example, there are already some early tourism-related applications that allow people to fly over remote cityscapes. Tour programs let people go sightseeing infamous places, tapping into collections at the Louvre, or scaling the Eiffel Tower. There are even combinations of VR and live event streaming, allowing users to watch sporting events as if they’re sitting in the front row.
All of this can ultimately fit into the “entertainment” category, and, likely, we’re only beginning to see how VR and the internet can combine for pure fun.
A Digital Casino Revival
You used to have a good time at the casino. Getting dressed up and going to the casino meant a night of thrills and entertainment – and, of course, the chance to make a bit of money with some luck.
Those nights out are still an option, depending on where you may live (or vacation), but at long last, we’re starting to see online gambling becoming a preferable alternative. That isn’t to say it’s brand new. In fact, online gaming of this sort has been around for decades. But it is better, thanks to what appears to be a worldwide effort by online casino providers to modernize. Top online slot gaming sites are now somewhat uniform from New Zealand to Europe to Canada. The games themselves look like the best mobile games or console arcade experiences and have their own themes and characters. And the poker, blackjack, and table game experiences are more interactive, realistic, and competitive than ever.
These are changes that have occurred over the course of the last several years. But the bet here is that as more people become aware of the quality and convenience of online casino entertainment – and as it becomes legal or free to play in more places – this category will see a major revival that makes it even more popular than it already is.
Interactive Stories
This may be the newest concept mentioned here and potentially the most exciting if someone gets it right. Netflix has floated the idea of interactive TV shows with choose-your-own-adventure-style entertainment. While the first version of this idea was widely panned, and Netflix has since been hit with a lawsuit over the concept, the idea, in a general sense, is still fascinating.
Lawsuit aside, Netflix has indicated that more of these shows are on the way, and it’s certainly conceivable that other streaming platforms will follow suit. Essentially, viewers using streaming platforms could soon have the ability to dictate the characters’ actions and see how the story plays out (which would, of course, be possible because the studios would film multiple branching narratives). And then, naturally, the same viewers could go back and watch the show all over again, making different decisions along the way. That could make for one of the very biggest upcoming trends in internet entertainment.
