Dec 28, 2020 (UNI\TNM): Technology has advanced so much over the last two decades in particular, that the way we play games has changed completely. Artificial intelligence has allowed for more bespoke experiences, while virtual reality has created games that are more immersive than it was ever believed to be possible.

The greatest impact in the industry was made by software development.A countless number of games are now available on a single device, which can be carried around everywhere, which has led to a trend of technology meeting tradition. We explore this by looking at a few traditional Indian games that have been upgraded to the 21st century. 

Board Games

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Board games have been popular in India since ancient times and the industry is now larger than most people realize. By 2023, the market is projected to grow by 17%, which would amount to several billion dollars. Traditional board games such as Pachisi or Chaupar are available in more formats than just physical versions as developers combine various technological advancements to enhance the player experience.

The most obvious way in which tech has been integrated into board games is with mobile apps. Smartphone and tablet users can go on a virtual app marketplace and download the game they want. A guide would then teach users how to play. Features such as sound effects, time trackers, or the possibility to add multiple players, creates a more immersive experience and increases the game’s accessibility. On top of that, there is no need to carry around heavy boxes and worry about losing any pieces.

Cards

Playing cards are among the most common forms of entertainment in India, and it has existed in the country since the 16th century. Back then, the royal Indian courts used decks of cards made from precious materials to play. Now, most households have a deck of cards and know how to play a few games, with one of the most popular games being andar bahar.

This is a traditional Indian game that people used to play this game in the streets, historically. In present day, people can play andar bahar online with a choice of online casino, as well as read about the history of the game, thanks to the technological advancements that we now tend to take for granted. Increasingly sophisticated software has even made it possible to play this game live online, in front of and with a real-life dealer, using only a computer or a smartphone.

Chess

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Invented in India around the 8th century, chess has changed numerous times throughout the years. However, it was only in the 20th century that the game itself was significantly revolutionized by the invention of databases and chess engines which have made online chess games the new norm. Chess engines can be run on any computer and are so powerful that they can show people the best moves in each position, while also evaluating each move. This has also changed the way people learn how to play the game. 

Board games and cards bring people together and they are as popular now as they were decades, or even centuries ago, just in a different format. Technology is making them more accessible and is creating a new digital generation of gaming which is proving to be a resounding success with a bright future.