Why Science Fiction Is The Latest Video Game Phenomenon

Although the exact origins of the science fiction genre are unknown, many believe that the theme rose to prominence during the 18th century. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and The Last Man created a platform upon which future developments could further cement sci-fi as a go-to genre. Following the turn of the millennium, the speculative form of imaginative concepts reached new-found levels of popularity, leading to heightened video game developments.

To date, the genre continues to be one of the leading themes within the gaming industry. Principally, this is because of the category’s forward-thinking approach to in-game aesthetics and subject matters. Unlike other entertainment streams that explore sci-fi concepts, the gaming industry allows for first-hand immersion in futuristic ideas. But why else is the genre the latest video game phenomenon?

Cyberpunk 2077 is Reinventing the Wheel
One reason behind the modern-day popularity of science fiction games relates to developers’ diverse interpretations of the theme. Over the past decade, the concept has combined with numerous other categories, thus developing pre-existing perceptions of sci-fi. A leading example of this step away from a predominantly science-based approach is evident within CD Projekt’s Cyberpunk 2077.

Released in December 2020, the title’s creators have sought to drive the sci-fi genre into a new era by intertwining the much-loved theme with action role-playing elements. By definition, Merriam-Webster states that cyberpunk is a concept within science fiction that refers to futuristic societies dominated by computer technology. In many ways, this provides a fascinating insight into the fundamentals of CD Projekt’s latest video game. Although the developers are trying to revolutionize the fictional concept, they are doing so while wholeheartedly embracing a long-standing subculture of the genre.



However, despite staying true to its roots, Cyberpunk 2077 isn’t shying away from seeking to alter the outlook of modern sci-fi games. As per Inverse, the newly-released title enables gamers to explore real fears in a manner unique to the industry. Not only that, but its origins – which date back to the 1960s – stem from 19th-century curiosity and fears.

Fundamentally, it's not unfair to suggest that this focus on pre-existing trepidations enabled Cyberpunk 2077 to tap into an untapped market. Although titles like Mirror’s Edge and System Shock came before it, they didn’t emerge themselves in the computer-dominated concept as heavily as the CD Projekt creation. Crucially, as per Red Bull, given the genre’s proud gaming heritage, Cyberpunk 2077’s subject matter has successfully honored its sci-fi forefathers.

An Immensely Versatile Genre
In many ways, Cyberpunk 2077 is the pinnacle of sci-fi gaming. The title proudly represents both the theme’s past and future without compromising on covering real-world issues. However, although revolutionary, the CD Projekt development doesn’t portray the entire science fiction genre. As touched on above, the fictional subject matter has become increasingly intertwined with other gaming categories in recent years. Aside from Cyberpunk 2077, No Man’s Sky illustrates the versatility of the genre, as well as The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, which was one of the best-selling Nintendo 64 games ever.

Since its release in August 2016, No Man’s Sky has received numerous awards, including the Hello Games honor for the Best Ongoing Game. Instead of adopting an action role-playing approach, the four-year-old game instead focuses on exploration and survival within an open-world universe.



No Man’s Sky, in particular, is a microcosm of 21st-century gaming trends. The title itself incorporates over 18 different planets, which showcases the space-themed direction that increasing numbers of modern-day developers are seeking to explore. Interestingly, this digital exploration of space is now stretching beyond traditional video games, having recently been embraced by the online casino sector.

Many online slots titles use the sci-fi theme due to the aesthetics and storytelling that it allows, meaning players have a more memorable experience. Please note however that playing playing slot machines online with real money is not legal in every state. Players can use online bill trackers like the one offered by Legal Betting’s team of gambling experts to uncover the various markets offered by each state, including their available operators’ respective space-themed titles. For example, in New Jersey - one of three states that offer gambling on video slots – prospective players can immerse themselves in a whole host of sci-fi-oriented games, such as Aeterna, Galactic Speedway, Quantum Clash, and many more.

Growing Ever Popular
Ultimately, few can argue that, over the coming years, the sci-fi genre doesn’t have the potential to cement its status as a leading gaming theme. Modern-day releases and platform diversity illustrate that the category can adapt, thus catering to gamer habits and social changes. Fundamentally, Cyberpunk 2077 has forever changed the sci-fi genre, with fear now coming to the forefront.