S$#t is getting real.
I know its an unprofessional slang expression, but there is no more applicable placement for that phrase than squarely on the gaming industry.
Enhanced, immersive graphics are helping create evermore realistic gaming experiences. And there is no sign of things slowing down.
The Evolution of Video Game Graphics
From the beginning of the video game era dating all the way back to the 1970s, graphical enhancements have played a vital role in the success of games. In fact, until recently, game graphics were the main marketing pitch to gamers. Now games have more complex narratives as well which attract gamers, but we should equally understand that the bigger, more powerful graphics give way to bitter, more immersive storylines.
In the 70s, games like Pong and Space Invaders, while by today’s standards appear dramatically less refined, during their day they were very impressive. And they knew it.
Nintendos came along in the 80s and beefed up graphics. This is where the realization that gaming was mainly built on the game’s functionality and graphics came to be. You needed bigger, better graphics to support the functional fun. So developers went all out with Nintendo.
The 90s began yet another shift as games like Tomb Raider displayed even more graphics potential. PlayStation and Xbox came along and that’s when graphics, often 3D, flooded the market and suddenly expectations were very, very high.
High Definition (HD) TVs came along further enhancing gaming’s graphics experience.
The trajectory for improving and enhancing video game graphics is well-defined for over 5 decades. Its a move towards video game immersion that is deeply embedded in a world of realism.
Modern Video Games Known for Graphics
There is no shortage of big games with bigger graphics in today’s market. We decided to select a handful that exemplify and support the point. But by no means are these the only, or even the best. Judging video game graphics is a subjective experience so we’re sure you prefer your own opinions.
The Last of Us Part II
Naughty Dog’s “The Last of Us Part II” is a masterpiece in visual storytelling, offering incredibly detailed character models and emotive facial animations.
Cyberpunk 2077
Despite its initial crappy technical issues, “Cyberpunk 2077” by CD Projekt Red is a visual spectacle, especially on high-end PCs and next-gen consoles.
Death Stranding
Hideo Kojima’s “Death Stranding” is renowned for its unique artistic vision, combining photorealistic environments with surreal elements.
Ghost of Tsushima
Sucker Punch Productions’ “Ghost of Tsushima” is a visual tour de force, capturing the beauty of feudal Japan with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant color palette.