Gaming: GTA V launched in September 2013, quickly becoming one of the best-selling games of all time. Its massive open world and online multiplayer mode (GTA Online) redefined the genre.
Global: Edward Snowden's NSA revelations sparked global debates about privacy and government surveillance.
Gaming: Twitch's acquisition by Amazon ($970M) marked the rise of game streaming. Esports also continued growing, with events like The International (Dota 2) gaining massive attention.
Global: The Ebola outbreak began in West Africa.
Gaming: Overwatch (Blizzard) launched, helping to usher in a new wave of team-based shooters. Pokémon GO revolutionized mobile gaming with its augmented reality features.
Global: The UK voted for Brexit, and Donald Trump was elected U.S. President.
Gaming: Fortnite Battle Royale exploded into mainstream culture, becoming one of the most influential games of the decade. Its success helped solidify the battle royale genre.
Global: The #MeToo movement gained momentum, bringing global attention to issues of sexual harassment and assault.
Gaming: Red Dead Redemption 2 set new standards for storytelling in gaming. Esports reached new heights with tournaments for games like League of Legends and Overwatch League.
Global: The world witnessed the first inter-Korean summit in over a decade, and France won the FIFA World Cup.
Gaming: With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing lockdowns, gaming saw a massive surge. Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a cultural phenomenon during the quarantine.
Global: The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped global economies, healthcare, and daily life.
Gaming: Baldur's Gate 3 became a landmark RPG, praised for player choice and freedom, while Starfield added to the excitement for space exploration games.
Global: AI continued to make headlines, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict dominated international news.
Gaming: The gaming community is eagerly awaiting the release of GTA VI. Esports continues to evolve, while conventions like Gamescom, PAX, and The Game Awards set the stage for future gaming announcements.
Global: The world grapples with environmental challenges, geopolitical tensions, and the rapid growth of AI technologies.