Sports and gaming have found a fruitful union within the gaming industry. One of the first examples of gaming technology finding a sporting partner is Tennis for Two (see video below). The game was created by William Higinbotham for the oscilloscope (a machine typically used for testing electrical voltages). It was a one vs. one tennis game that, although basic, laid the foundations for future sports-based games.
Indeed, by the time arcade machines and home computers were invented, developers were brimming with ideas. Pong (1972) essentially took what Tennis for Two started and initiated a revolution. Fast forward 50 years and the library of sports games has expanded to epic proportions.
That’s hardly surprising given the popularity of both sports and video games. Indeed, the latter alone is at the heart of an industry worth over $195 billion. What’s more interesting is the way in which the market has evolved. Sport is no longer confined to the video game arena.
Yes, almost all of the biggest industry players reside within the video gaming sector. However, if you take the time to explore what’s out there, you’ll find that casino game developers have tapped into our love of sport. All across the online casino gaming industry are examples of sports being used to engage and entertain. Slots are the best example of this merging of cultures.
Playtech is one of the industry’s top developers and is responsible for a number of sports-themed slots. For example, if you enjoy horse racing, you can spin the reels of Frankie Dettori’s Magic Seven slot game. In fact, such has been the popularity of Playtech’s deal with Dettori that it’s created a number of spinoffs, including Frankie Dettori’s Magic Seven Blackjack.
Another homage to a sporting icon is available at Mr Q. Named after its eponymous hero and created by Blueprint Gaming, the Maradona slot game has five reels, payouts topping 50,000X, and it sits alongside the platform’s other sporty slots, including Big Bass Bonanza. Throw some more soccer spinners into the mix, including Hot Shots, and it’s easy to see how deep the roots of sports run.
The point here is that sports and gaming have a strong bond. The question, other than the fact both endeavors are entertaining, is why? The answer, at least in our view, is competition. Even though they play out in different arenas and require different attributes, sports and gaming are both competitive. Indeed, that’s why companies such as G2 Esports exist.
Speak to high-level performers in sports and gaming and they’ll espouse the same virtues. From training and focus to dedication, timing, foresight, and speed, athletes and gamers share a number of traits. That, ultimately, is what connects sports and gaming. Moreover, it’s why the history of gaming is littered with sports offerings. With that being true, we can celebrate what we’ve already got and look forward to many more sports games in the future.
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