Why CRV’s Saar Gur Is Betting on VR, Twitch, and Zoom Gaming
Saar Gur, a general partner at CRV and seasoned investor in consumer tech (Niantic, DoorDash, Patreon), has identified three emerging gaming trends poised for growth: VR gaming, Twitch-integrated experiences, and social games for video chat platforms like Zoom. His insights reveal where the next wave of interactive entertainment is headed.
The VR Gaming Revival
After years of slow adoption, Gur believes VR is approaching its “Xbox moment”—a tipping point where hardware meets compelling content.
Key Takeaways:
- Oculus Quest has demonstrated strong market demand, with pandemic-driven shortages underscoring its popularity
- Third-party VR game revenues are showing promising growth
- The focus now shifts to high-retention VR games that leverage the medium’s unique capabilities
“When consumers buy a new device, they buy content to explore it,” Gur notes. “We’re looking for studios creating VR experiences with lasting engagement.”
Twitch as a Gaming Platform
With Twitch viewership at all-time highs, Gur sees untapped potential in:
- Streamer-audience interactive games that blur the lines between playing and spectating
- Twitch ecosystem tools addressing unmet needs in the growing creator economy
“Zynga initially depended on Facebook but evolved beyond it,” Gur explains. “We’re watching for similar opportunities where Twitch enables breakout hits.”
The Rise of Video Chat Gaming
The pandemic accelerated demand for social gaming experiences that facilitate connection:
- Intergenerational play (e.g., grandparents connecting with kids via Portal games)
- Creative adaptations of traditional games (poker, Pictionary) for video platforms
- Emerging formats like distributed escape rooms
“Game designers now have a blank canvas,” says Gur. “The challenge is leveraging existing platforms like Zoom while creating truly engaging social experiences.”
What’s Next for Gaming Investments?
Gur’s current priorities:
- VR Studios: Seeking developers who understand VR’s unique affordances
- Twitch Ecosystem: Tools and games that enhance streamer-viewer interaction
- Social Video Games: Experiences that make virtual gatherings more engaging
“In a COVID world, our need for connection through technology has never been greater,” Gur observes. “The best gaming investments will address this fundamental human desire.”
While traditional games currently dominate his personal playtime, Gur remains bullish on VR’s long-term potential to create meaningful shared experiences—once the right content arrives to drive mass adoption.
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