Since the introduction of the smartphone, more and more people have started to gain access. This opened a whole new world for people, as they’re now able to do tasks that previously required a home computer or laptop to complete. Because of this, more people started choosing smartphones over computers as it did everything that was required in their daily life.
With this influx of people purchasing smartphones, this opened a whole new world for developers as they suddenly had a whole target audience to market to. In the early 2010’s, mobile gaming really took off and there were a whole host of new titles for players to try.
Many gaming niches have become popular on a mobile device from action and adventure games to sports games and even the world of online casinos is now available at a touch of a button on your smartphone. In fact, most of the top casino providers like online casino Ontario now make sure they have a mobile compatible app for players to easily access their games alongside many other game developers.
Over ten years on, with lots of those games long gone, there are new popular games that have taken their place. But just how popular is mobile gaming in 2024, is it still as popular as it once was? Or has it grown to new levels. In this article we’ll be taking a look and answering that question.
Console vs Mobile
With the rate in which technology is increasing, it’s no doubt mobile gaming is still popular today. With our phones being able to produce almost console level graphics, it’s clear why so many people still play mobile games. In recent years, the games being made available for mobiles has improved significantly, with a large majority of titles coming out only previously being available on consoles.
For example, games such as Call of Duty, PUBG, Mario Kart and EA FC Mobile, all had games that were solely available on console before being brought to mobile. Whilst the games had to be tweaked for mobile use, they’re virtually the same game with the same controls and premise.
By having such big-name titles available at the click of a button in your pocket is a real game changer and for some a deal breaker. Most people now own a smartphone, whereas not everyone owns a games console, people can either choose to spend additional money to get a gaming console, or they can play the same titles on the phone they already own. For some, this is an easy decision and will choose the phone all day long.
In some areas of the world, gaming consoles are quite hard to come by and aren’t easily purchasable, so playing on a smartphone is their only option.
Cost of Games
Another reason people may opt to play on their smartphone instead of a gaming console is game prices. Most AAA games now cost over £70, and that’s not including any additional extras in game. On the other hand, most mobile games are free to play, meaning you don’t have to spend a penny to play. Whilst you can purchase in game items such as cosmetics, you’re not forced to shell out the initial £70 just to play. And if you don’t like the game, just uninstall it, and you’ll be no worse off than before.
Rise of Small Gaming Titles
Whilst the introduction of big titles being brought to mobile, it’s also smaller games that are also keeping the mobile gaming industry thriving. For example, previously if someone wanted to play a game of Blackjack or Poker, they’d have to go down to their local Casino to play. However, with mobile gaming, it’s ready at the touch of a button. On the way to work, late at night on the sofa, you can play anytime anywhere without the need to leave your house. This level of flexibility ensures players keep coming back time and time again as it allows them to work it around them, they don’t have to make plans about when to go, or even be stuck in one room where their console is, mobile gaming gives them the freedom to make it work for them.
With the way mobile gaming has gone in recent years and the releases of high-profile games such as Call of Duty Warzone on mobile, it’s clear it’s here to stay and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.
Mobile gaming is still a relatively new concept that developers are still trying to perfect. With new games being released all the time, it’s clear there really is a mobile game for everyone. Whether it’s a big game like Call of Duty or Pubg, or more of a casual game such as Candy Crush or online poker, there’s plenty of options out there for players who are unsure what to play next.
There’s definitely pros and cons to both sides, one the one hand playing on console does give you performance and true graphics, however mobile still gives you those major titles, but also gives you the freedom to play your way wherever you want.
