Can we talk about the impact of sports on gamification?

In fact, yes—sport is increasingly influencing digital culture. On the one hand, soccer clubs are signing contracts with cyber sportsmen, and on the other hand, game developers have paid special attention to sports themes and are actively engaged in their implementation. Now, sport is not only the usual simulators but also strategy games, arcades, and mini-games. We can safely say that sport has become an important and almost integral part of gaming. 

FIFA, NBA 2K, and ICC Pro Cricket are well-known franchises, and they are still flagships in the genre, as they recreate the unique atmosphere of real matches. In the same FIFA 24 from EA Sports, the animation of spectators is as close to reality as possible. Everything in the game, including the financial component, is the same as in life. NBA 2K allows players to manage a basketball dynasty, as well as the ability to build a marketing strategy, and this is in addition to other engaging activities. The ICC Pro Cricket 2023 cricket game features real teams, which is especially welcome for South Asian players.

Mobile sports games are gradually becoming as important and interesting as the big simulators. Projects like Stick Cricket, World Cricket Championship 3, and Score! Hero allows you to immerse yourself in the gameplay immediately; it happens in just a few minutes. Typically, mobile games are characterized by a unique combination of visual simplicity and advanced mechanics. World Cricket Championship also considers not only the pitch coverage, but even the wind direction. Thanks to this, the game begins to require advanced tactics, because it becomes as realistic as possible. Even the fatigue of the player will affect the process. 

Retro Bowl is an interesting game project inspired by the nineties in American soccer. The game is made in pixel style, but the management mode will be full-fledged. It has everything from trades and drafts to analyzing opponents. It’s a nostalgic yet deeply thoughtful approach showcasing the variety of gameplay and sports interactions.

Sports managers can be safely singled out as a separate direction. The same Top Eleven from Nordeus shows the club as a business – you can sign advertising contracts, expand the stadium, and do much more.  Cricket Manager Pro 2023 is built on the analysis of player statistics, the need to postpone matches due to weather, and similar mechanics. 

Also, the sports theme is popular in genres that were not originally associated with it. For example, some versions of Plinko, presented here, use a design in the spirit of soccer or cricket arenas: the track on which the ball falls is stylized as a lawn, the background sounds fan chants, and the start button resembles a kick at the ball. These elements create a sense of belonging, especially during major tournaments such as the IPL or Champions League. 

In short, sports have become a universal language that is understandable and accessible to everyone. This trend is likely to continue and inspire many.

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