Core Insights - The "Game On" Report by Globant highlights significant shifts in the gaming industry for 2026, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure, intelligence, and trust alongside entertainment as AI adoption creates new opportunities and challenges for developers [1][2]. Industry Overview - Global gaming revenues are projected to reach $189 billion in 2025, driven by evolving player expectations and disruptive technologies that transform the creation, delivery, and sustainability of gaming experiences [2]. - The transformation in gaming is characterized by a focus on the systems powering games rather than just graphics or world size, with portable and cloud platforms changing how and where people play [3]. Key Forces Shaping the Industry 1. **Platform Shift**: The rise of portable and cloud-optimized gaming is moving the focus from fixed consoles to seamless, portable access and play-anywhere continuity [7]. 2. **AI Adoption**: 97% of developers are utilizing AI to enhance asset creation, playtesting, and localization, positioning AI as a creative ally that expands innovation capacity [7]. 3. **Deep Engagement**: The industry is shifting focus from acquiring new players to retaining existing ones through live services, expansions, and remasters [7]. 4. **Creator-Driven Discovery**: Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Twitch are now primary channels for game discovery, with creators influencing engagement and monetization [7]. 5. **Regulatory Pressure**: Increased accountability is reshaping monetization and design, with governments targeting practices like loot boxes and gacha systems due to their psychological and ethical implications [7]. Future Directions - As the industry progresses into 2026, gaming companies must evolve by integrating AI responsibly, prioritizing player trust, and designing cross-platform experiences to remain competitive [5].