You Can’t Step into the Same River Twice

A Journey Through the Gaming World: A Decade in Review

The gaming industry has undergone incredible transformations over the past decade. When I first entered the field in Turkey (in 2013), universities had almost no game design programs. The sector was limited, and opportunities were scarce. Over the years, the number of game studios in Turkey rapidly increased, university programs in game design were established, and the industry grew into a massive sector. This rapid change wasn’t limited to Turkey; the gaming world has constantly evolved. This transformation is evident in everything from the tools and programs used to the audience and platforms available.

Source: Visual Capitalist

From PC to Mobile: The Transformation of the Gaming World

One of the most striking examples of change in the gaming industry over the past decade is the rise of mobile gaming. This shift has been particularly pronounced in Turkey. Where PC games once dominated, mobile games have rapidly spread, causing a significant transformation in the industry. The rise of hypercasual games played an essential role in this change. With their simple mechanics and short play sessions, hypercasual games appealed to a broad audience and drove the industry's growth. This, in turn, attracted many investors who had previously been hesitant to invest in the gaming sector, resulting in remarkable growth.

Technological advancements have also been crucial to this process. The game development process, which once required large teams and lengthy development periods, now allows for significant revenue with smaller teams and shorter development times. Integrating AI technologies into game development has facilitated visual design and coding, making game creation more accessible at all levels of development.

Keeping Up with Change: The Importance of Staying Current

Looking back, the past decade has rewritten many of the rules we once knew, forcing us to relearn and adapt. The shift towards hypercasual gaming didn’t just transform the industry—it expanded the player base globally, welcoming millions of new players into the fold. But you can’t step into the same river twice in the gaming world. The industry is in constant flux, constantly evolving, and never staying the same for long.

To thrive in this ever-changing landscape, you must be willing to embrace the unknown, adapt to new trends, and continuously reinvent your approach. Success in gaming isn’t about mastering a single formula—it’s about staying nimble, curious, and ready to rewrite the rules once again.