In the metaverse, will big gaming eventually become big tech?
Epic’s fight against Apple and Google is about more than just app stores
IN “READY PLAYER ONE”, a science-fiction novel set in 2045, people can escape a ghastly world of global warming and economic mayhem by teleporting themselves into the OASIS, a parallel universe where they can change identity, hang out and forget the miseries of everyday life. In the book, published in 2011, the OASIS is the brainchild of a gaming tycoon who has everyone’s best interests at heart. Lurking in the background, though, is Innovative Online Industries, an evil internet conglomerate that intends to take it all over and reap the rewards for itself.
This article appeared in the Business section of the print edition under the headline “Epic’s battle royale”
Business September 4th 2021
- The future of meetings
- Flush with billions, Databricks has momentum and big plans
- An electric-vehicle startup aims for a stellar valuation
- China imposes the world’s strictest limits on video games
- The trial of Elizabeth Holmes gets under way
- Why people are always so gloomy about the world of work
- In the metaverse, will big gaming eventually become big tech?
Discover more
How painful will Trump’s tariffs be for American businesses?
Their options range from hoarding goods and raising prices to rewiring supply chains
Intel’s troubles deepen, as its boss makes an abrupt exit
Pat Gelsinger’s surprise departure poses a dilemma for Donald Trump
Could seaweed replace plastic packaging?
Companies are experimenting with new ways to reduce plastic waste
Has Sequoia Capital outgrown its business model?
Venture capital’s hardiest perennial gets back to its roots
On stupid rules and quick wins
Why every boss can benefit from asking employees what most infuriates them
TikTok wants Western consumers to shop like the Chinese
It still has some convincing to do