Contrary to popular belief, the metaverse isn’t new. Some experts, including Bernard Marr, a world-renowned futurist, estimate that the concepts of the metaverse date as far back as 1838. Although the concept back then is less akin to the metaverse we’re familiar with today, the foundation of virtual reality was originally found in the development of stereoscopes. 

On the other hand, the modern-day metaverse is defined by Forbes as a term “used to describe a combination of the virtual reality and mixed reality worlds accessed through a browser or headset, which allows people to have real-time interactions and experiences across distances.” 

Additionally, the metaverse encourages users to make real-life connections from the comfort of their homes. Consumers can also:

• Attend virtual events like concerts, tradeshows, work meetings, and educational seminars;


• Make investments;


• Shop for, sell, and trade virtual items;


• Work from home.

Generally speaking, many users want to use the metaverse to escape reality. According to Statista, 28% of consumers use the metaverse to escape their physical surroundings. This escape can manifest in a variety of forms, but the most profitable, it seems, is gaming.  As an already growing field, the gaming industry will continue to see even more sales as virtual reality and metaverse concepts come into play. 

This guide will provide insight into how the metaverse changed the world of gaming and how society is responding. 

What Companies Are Using the Metaverse? 

If able, media managers or those involved in internal communications within the gaming industry should implement the metaverse somewhere in their current business plan. These efforts will assist with professional connections, employee resources, and improved communications. 

Not only will this improve employee morale, but it will also provide an “in-office feel” for businesses with remote workplaces — which may ultimately lead to an increase in overall company success. 

However, many companies are planning on using this technology within the actual games and services they offer. 

Epic Games 

Epic Games is an online store for various internet games, including those for the metaverse. Here are a few games and other virtual events offered by EpicGames, made for the metaverse:

• Core;


• Deadmau5’s virtual, interactive concert; 


• Rocket League.

Since Epic Games also bought out the music platform Bandcamp in 2022, they will also inevitably use metaverse technology for music services, thus branching out into the music industry. In that same year, Epic Games invested nearly $2 billion for further metaverse development. Whatever industry they end up settling in, EpicGames is a great online resource for those wanting to embrace their competitive side, or get lost in music. 

Meta

Formerly known as Facebook, Meta is an online social media platform used for many reasons, but historically, it’s been used as a platform to socialize via status updates and utilize the virtual marketplace. 

However, as the metaverse continues to develop, so does its compatibility with existing platforms, including Meta. Meta users can use the virtuality to:

• Design customizable hangout rooms;


• Join existing chat rooms/events;


• Play games only on Meta’s website.

While the metaverse is more immersive with a headset, they’re not needed to participate in the activities listed above. 

Apple

Apple is one of the largest tech companies known worldwide. This is why it should come as no surprise to learn they are also considering implementing the upcoming virtual trend in their business. 

As of 2022, Apple plans to incorporate the metaverse by expanding its existing AV/VR ecosystem. They aim to develop a desirable augmented reality for users, as well. 

Microsoft

Known as another big wig in the tech world, Microsoft is the world’s leading producer of computer software. One aspect of Microsoft’s metaverse strategy is to use it for consumer entertainment. Additionally, Microsoft uses it to:

• Embrace diversity in online platforms;


• Pair with AI to gain further insight into company data;


• Strengthen existing and future industrial and data marketing apps.

Microsoft aims to be transparent with all processes, including their intentions with the metaverse. To prove this, they’ve published a resource guide detailing how Microsoft already embraces the metaverse. 

How Does the Metaverse Change the Way We Play Games? 

Although many companies have drafted plans to commit to metaverse technology, we’re already seeing the positive effects of the metaverse impacting the gaming experience.  Players can use the metaverse to enhance their gaming experiences. They can use it paired with other tools, like word finders and AI to assist with gaming techniques, without feeling like the program has completely taken over.  

Immersion

Equipment, like a VR headset, is highly recommended for those who wish to completely immerse themselves in the virtual reality experience. However, not everyone desires this amount of involvement. 

Players can use augmented reality (AR) and traditional screens to create a partially immersive experience if that's the case. This option is great for those who are new, or are nervous, to dive further into virtual reality. 

Social Connection 

Many make false assumptions that metaverse technology, among other technology developments, will eat away at social connections among the masses. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Even though you’re not physically interacting with others when using this technology, you’ll still build social skills and connections in a variety of ways. 

For one, the metaverse encourages users to metaphorically step outside their comfort zone. This virtual interaction can help remove the anxiety associated with the face-to-face contact part of making in-person connections. 

You’ll also be able to interact with others no matter where they’re located in the world. Inevitably, the longer users interact with the metaverse, the more likely they’ll improve their social connections along the way. In return, they can transfer these skills and use them to improve their real-world abilities. 

Mobility

Mobility is a positive outcome of the metaverse often overlooked, as some may not even be aware of accessibility issues in the physical world. Because the metaverse is online, those who — for whatever reason — missed out on events in the past, can now participate online. 

While the metaverse is always changing, understanding how it can make a positive impact on our daily lives, is a great way to embrace the unknown.