In the not-so-distant past, the idea that video games could be considered a legitimate sport would have seemed like a ridiculous concept. Today, the eSports industry is absolutely enormous, with millions of fans around the world avidly following their favorite stars. We`ve seen the popularity of sports video games such as FIFA and Madden NFL explode in popularity, with even pro sports teams and clubs launching their own official eSports teams. Will simulation driving games be the next major motorsport? Let`s find out.
The Most Popular Driving Games
There are various different driving games out there, which are set to be the next big thing in motorsport? The Forza franchise is by far the most popular driving game series. The latest title, Forza Horizon 5, attracted over 15 million players in the first two months after its launch.
The Gran Turismo series is another incredibly popular driving game franchise, having sold more than 90 million units since its debut in 1997. The latest Gran Turismo installment, Gran Turismo 7, was the best-selling game of the week in the UK and Japan.
The demand is obviously there for simulation driving games, with millions of players from across the world. However, that isn`t the only reason why they have been tipped to be the next big thing in motorsport. Let`s find out more.
They`re Safer
Motorsports are incredibly thrilling, but they do come with inherent risks and dangers. Crashes and collisions can be life threatening, for both drivers and spectators. This danger is perhaps part of the fun but is it worth the risk.
Video games work to simulate extreme or risky situations such as a motorsport race, but the key difference is that the participant is never actually in any physical danger. Popular games such as racing games or great shooter games understand this perfectly, creating an exhilarating player experience that perfectly emulates dangerous situations.
Simulation driving games mean that both drivers and spectators can enjoy their favorite sport without putting themselves at risk, which could be a major factor in their increasing popularity as a motorsport.
They Enhance the Viewer Experience
If you go to watch motorsports in person, you`ll know fine well that views can be restricted at the best of times. You might only catch the action for a split second before the drivers are racing away to the opposite end of the track. While this is certainly exciting, with spectators eagerly awaiting the cars passing by, it can sometimes feel like a bit of an anti-climax.
With simulated driving motorsports, spectators will have access to detailed views of the action from all stages of the race. They`ll get to see all the twists, turns, and near-misses up close, with action replays available for those most exciting moments.
They`re More Accessible
Being a dedicated motorsports fan often involves traveling to races across the world. However, for some this just isn`t possible financially or logistically.
With simulated driving games, fans can tune in to watch races from wherever they are in the world. With over five billion global internet users, there is potential there for simulated driving motorsports to far surpass the viewers and fan bases of its traditional counterpart.
What`s more, becoming a motorsports driver is reserved for a privileged few who have access to vehicles and training centers. Games, on the other hand, can be picked up and mastered by a far broader range of people, which could help to improve diversity and inclusivity in the sport.
Conclusion
Simulated driving games have numerous plus points that could well see them become the next big thing in motorsport.