Although mobile games have come a long way over the last two decades, some still doubt just how much they’ve evolved. While Snake may have been groundbreaking back in the day, we’ve now got fully 3D graphics and expansive RPGs in the palm of our hands. Just as your smartphone can be a pocket encyclopedia, camera and TV, it’s status as a portable games console is more solid than ever.
Enhanced Graphics and Immersive Gameplay
Both graphics and gameplay have come on in leaps and bounds since smartphone games first graced our screens. They looked akin to PS2 games or worked with fairly simple gameplay loops, but now your phone can render 3D worlds with smooth animations and lighting effects.
The formula for touchscreen controls has also been refined, allowing for more precise gameplay – with larger screens helping to accommodate the different digital buttons required. A number of console games have also had mobile versions released alongside them, such as Genshin Impact and Minecraft: Dream it, Build it! that show mobile platforms can deliver the same experience as modern games consoles.
More Social Than Ever
Older mobile games were more of a solo experience, boasting leaderboards at most to show how the game connected to the wider world. But now, you can play MMORPGs and MOBAs right there on your phone. These can feature real-time chat features to coordinate with others, as well as community challenges that bring people together through shared goals. This sense of playing with others on mobile, especially for titles like Pokémon Go, can help you feel more connected with the world than isolated.
Games for Everyone
Look at both Android or iPhone app stores and you’ll be astounded by the amount of choice now available. There are so many different games to choose from, spanning practically all genres to please puzzle enthusiasts, strategists and action gamers. That’s saying nothing of the many browser-based games you can access without needing to download a thing, like the Deal or No Deal free game you can pick up at a moment’s notice.
The rise of subscription passes has also seen mobile gaming hop on the trend, with passes available from Google Play and Apple Arcade to give players lots of premium games to choose from with only one price to pay per month.
Convenience Meets Customization
One of mobile gaming’s greatest strengths is in its flexibility, designed for short play sessions but can easily be enjoyed for longer if you wish. With how busy life can get, mobile gaming is able to be played in the small moments we get to ourselves.
Games can also be adapted to suit the level of challenge you want, from harder difficulties for those seeking accomplishment to easier ones that prioritize escapism.
With cloud gaming on the horizon and ever-improving hardware, the pocket-sized entertainment revolution is just getting started. So why not pick up a game and see whether it’s for you!
TV and City 