Since video games first were created, it was natural that there should be a connection with the sports world. If you’re playing a game, specifically against another person, you likely already have a competitive streak in you of some sort. That also likely means that you either participate in sports yourself or follow them pretty passionately. Video game makers have almost had no choice but to include sports titles right from the beginning, and they’ve met the demands of gamers time and again for more realistic gameplay.
What’s been interesting in following the history of sports video games has been the effect that the simulated action has had on the real thing. Gaming has become an obsession pretty much with the level of sports, so those who run professional sports leagues have been wise to occasionally follow the cue of the video games that mimic them. The give and take relationship have been beneficial on both sides. Gamers have emerged with sports video games that are more realistic and exciting. And sports fans have benefitted by seeing action that is influenced by the fast pace and interactive nature of video games.
The good news for gamers is that there are a lot of great games of all stripes that you can play for free if you just know what to look for them. Meanwhile, the next time you settle down to either watch your favorite sport or play your favorite sports video game, you’ll likely note how one has influenced the other.
The Viewing Experience
Perhaps the way that video games have had the most influence on sports has been how the games are broadcast. Video game creators are always wary of packing a punch into the viewing experience in addition to providing great gameplay. As a result, the sports games they created were always packed with innovative visuals and graphics that were presented in unique ways. It took a while, but sports events producers followed their lead so that you can’t watch a game or event these days without seeing the examples of video game influences in the product.
Statistical Reality
One of the things that have developed over the years in terms of sports video games has been a trend towards realism. And that also includes a play that creates results that are similar to what occurs on the actual field or court. Fans have become more indoctrinated into the statistical world surrounding their sports, and If the games they play don’t pay heed to those statistics, they’ll likely move on to something else.
What’s Next
Virtual reality has proven to be a game-changer in the video game world. It’s just a matter of time if history is any indication before it also infiltrates the actual games that people play. How that occurs will likely have an impact on both the virtual and actual gaming worlds.
Tracing the back and forth between sports video games and the actual sports they emulate demonstrates a fascinating, reciprocal relationship. It’s one that will likely continue as both realms progress.
