Older gamers reintroduce retro gaming for the new generation
Implications - Gaming has transcended beyond being a simple pastime to a fully immersive experience with regard to both technology and culture, but there is a growing fascination with regard to the games of yesteryear amid Gen Z gamers. The distinct attention to downgraded technology negates smartphones and modern gaming consoles for something based solely out of culture to effectively switch up how younger generations interpret what's entertaining in the 21st century.
Trend Themes
1. Retrofitting Technology - Old technologies, such as the Game Boy, are being retrofitted with modern features, like smartphone cases, to cater to gamers’ need for tactile responses.
2. Reinvention of Retro - Older memories associated with the older version games are influencing the modern designs, as with the case of the Simon Swipe's modern touchscreen upgrade.
3. DIY Handheld Gaming Console - The creation of the DIY Gamer Kit is enabling people to build and customize their handheld gaming consoles, to allow them to explore their creativity and unique preferences.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming Industry - Retrofitting of old technologies and reinvention of retro games is an opportunity for gaming industry to create/tap into nostalgia-based games, and appeal to a new market segment of gamers.
2. Technology Industry - The rise of DIY console building, and interest in retrofitting technology could create a new market segment for technology industry, especially for e-commerce and startups.
3. Education and Learning Industry - The DIY Gamer Kit reflects an emerging trend of creating DIY projects for education and learning industry which focuses on giving learners a chance to explore their abilities in a fun and tactile way.
