Games take a step back to incorporate nostalgic elements from the past
Implications - Creating a sense of community within their fan base, video game developers are reusing familiar characters and themes of the past to spark emotional attachment amongst Millennial players. Reimagining highly recognizable characters from gamer’s adolescence increases brand engagement with new players as well as their core demographic base. This cyclical movement demonstrates a proclivity in the Millennial demographic to turn towards childhood nostalgia-inducing stimuli as a way to elevate their mood in times of stress or boredom.
Workshop Question - How could your brand use elements of nostalgia to create more engaging and memorable experiences?
Trend Themes
1. Nostalgic Gaming - Video game developers are tapping into the Millennial demographic's love for nostalgia, reusing familiar characters and themes of the past to spark emotional attachment amongst players.
2. Reimagined Classic Games - Entrepreneurs are modernizing and reinventing classic games such as the cup and ball game, providing an opportunity to merge gaming and tech innovations.
3. Multiplayer VR Gaming - Entertainment companies are developing VR games with multiplayer functionality, providing a more immersive and social gaming experience for players.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming Industry - Gaming companies can leverage the trend of nostalgic gaming by developing games with familiar characters and themes from the past.
2. Tech Industry - Tech entrepreneurs can reimagine and modernize classic games by combining them with innovative technologies, creating new gaming experiences.
3. Entertainment Industry - Entertainment companies can disrupt the gaming industry by investing in VR gaming experiences and developing multiplayer games, creating a social and immersive gaming environment.
