Video games in 2022: Massive mergers and peculiar portables

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Gamers, and the game industry as a whole, can be a little too focused on what's next. Newly released blockbusters can fade from the public consciousness in a matter of days, while the "next generation" of console hardware or a highly anticipated, years-in-the-making sequel can dominate the headlines.

In that kind of environment, it can be useful to review the major trends shaping the industry over a period longer than a few days. Looking back at the big gaming news of 2022, a few clear storylines emerge.