a16z Podcast Gaming and Livestreaming: Connecting While Distancing
Apr 2, 2020
Join Jon Lai, a partner at Andreessen Horowitz, as he navigates the dramatic surge in gaming during social distancing. He discusses how game developers are adapting to unprecedented demand and the rise of online multiplayer games. The conversation highlights the evolution of gaming into educational platforms like Discord, the resurgence of family gaming, and how traditional sports are shifting to esports. Jon also explores the exciting possibilities for virtual reality as the landscape transforms in this new era of connection and community.
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Gaming as Social Connection
- Gaming's immersive, social nature drives increased playtime during social distancing.
- It allows friends to bond over shared experiences and competition.
Warzone's Popularity
- Call of Duty: Warzone's rapid growth exemplifies successful game launches during the pandemic.
- It gained millions of players within days of release.
Server Strain
- Increased game usage caused server outages for platforms like Xbox Live, highlighting infrastructure challenges.
- Developers experiment with higher player counts, increasing technical difficulties.