The gaming industry has grown tremendously in the last two decades. For obvious reasons, 2020 alone saw a massive spike in global gaming growth that shot up by 9.3%. This was followed in 2021 by a further 10.4% growth. While figures did begin normalizing by 2022 (4.6%), overall growth since 2020 has seen the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of gaming jump 4.2% between 2020 and 2024. Per Newzoo, that meant revenue increased from $159.3 billion to $187.7 billion during this period.
While California is known worldwide as the home of Silicon Valley, not every city in the state is known for tech-related activities like gaming. However, as the second largest city in San Diego County (280,000) and a diverse population, Chula Vista is a prime location to become a mini gaming haven. However, to achieve this, gaming has to first become a larger part of Chula Vista’s identity through the kind of opportunities and awareness that can drive this goal.
The Growing Diversity of the Gaming World
In the past, gaming was usually something enjoyed by a first-generation demographic. However, today, that generation has become adults who still love gaming, while the generations that came after have also begun discovering the amazing world of gaming for themselves. That broader market has diversified the gaming choices available now, too. For instance, online casino gaming is now a major part of the conversation. However, for Californians, without a locally regulated market to enjoy yet, most players turn to offshore offerings.
Options like the offshore casinos reviewed by ValueWalk are a popular choice. These digital gambling sites are leaps and bounds above the once-primitive platforms that were available in the ‘90s. Premium sites now offer gaming libraries that boast thousands of slot, table, and card games. There is a huge array of modern offerings like crash games, live-dealer streamed games, and game show-style options, too. Players can choose from a diverse range of seamless payment methods and instantly withdraw their winnings. Welcome bonuses are also a major attraction, and many new players use these to augment their bankrolls or try out platforms before choosing them.
The growth of gaming has been widespread and generally strong throughout all major markets worldwide. Its growth figures from the last five years alone provide an indication of just how strong and diversified the gaming industry has grown. As a generation of adults today who were raised during the period when the likes of PlayStation, Xbox, and major PC gaming operators first began peaking, there’s also a wider array of people today, in terms of age, who enjoy gaming.
On the video gaming end, the old favorites are all still there. However, many have grown and evolved in exciting ways. The fun of RPGs can now be enjoyed in vast, open-world scenarios along with hundreds of players from other parts of the world, as options like MMORPGs and Battle Royale games become more widespread. If you enjoy horror games, you can truly immerse yourself in one by playing a VR game. If you enjoy sports games, there are now games that come with simulator options that can provide as close an option to the real deal as possible.
What’s clear today is that there is something out there for everyone. Regardless of age, taste, or gaming experience, the gaming spectrum is now wider and more evolved than ever before. However, for places like Chula Vista to truly become a gaming haven, growing single participation rates won’t get you there. Major gaming cities in the world get that reputation because of the sheer level of broad participation and major gaming events that take place there. So, the question then becomes, how can Chula Vista make that happen locally?
Building Public Events That Draw Broad Participation
Public events are a part of what makes any city vibrant and fun to live in. In major cities, these events can take place on a grand and impressive scale that attracts international visitors. However, in a city like Chula Vista, public events can be a more charming and intimate way for people of the same ilk to enjoy something together. Gaming events can take place over a few days, turning it into a mini festival.
Participation doesn’t have to be across the board, so long as it brings more attention and awareness to gaming. Once people gather in numbers, word spreads. Before you know it, it can lead to the same kind of large-scale participation we see every year as the city gears up for its annual holiday celebration schedule. If this kind of planning happens for a gaming theme, these events do not need to be tied only to competitive play.
Activities don’t have to be esoteric or only cater to hardcore gamers. Relaxed sessions that invite newcomers to try out certain types of games can help them discover the magic of gaming at their own pace. Most avid gamers will know that gaming isn’t a pastime. To them, it’s a way of life, a community, and an identity. However, no one just comes by that level of love for gaming overnight. Small tournaments that are centered around good vibes are a great way to encourage more people to try it out for themselves. How large a part of their lives gaming becomes beyond that is entirely up to them.
Launching City-Supported Gaming Festivals
A city-backed gaming festival would act as a major anchor for Chula Vista’s gaming identity. Such a festival could take place once a year during a busy holiday weekend, drawing visitors from surrounding areas. The event could include tournaments, board game rooms, retro gaming sections, indie developer booths, gaming art displays, and hands-on demos. These attractions appeal to varied interests, which helps the festival maintain broad appeal.
Local creators could showcase their projects, from small game prototypes to artwork inspired by gaming culture. Vendors could sell merchandise, accessories, and custom items. Food trucks and entertainment acts would round out the experience, giving visitors a full day of activity. A well-planned festival creates buzz for weeks and leaves a lasting impression that encourages year-round participation in smaller events.
Promoting Safe and Inclusive Environments Across All Venues
One of the key factors in expanding gaming participation is the creation of spaces where newcomers, returning players, and casual visitors feel comfortable. Chula Vista can promote a culture of respect through public messaging, volunteer training, and clear expectations at events. Organisers can post simple codes of conduct at entry points, reminding guests that the goal is to create a friendly environment where everyone can enjoy themselves.
Workshops can support this approach. Sessions on sportsmanship, basic event etiquette, or collaborative play help people feel ready to step into new settings. Workshops on beginner-friendly game design can draw creative individuals who want a low-pressure introduction to the subject. These efforts give the city a reputation for welcoming spaces, which encourages participation from those who might otherwise remain on the sidelines.
Conclusion
Chula Vista has the foundation needed to grow gaming into a recognised and celebrated part of city life. Through public events, supportive venues, school partnerships, festivals, inclusive practices, and creative collaborations, the city can build a vibrant scene that attracts players, spectators, and visitors throughout the year. The result is a richer community experience that highlights shared interests and brings people together through play.