July 7, 2021
If you’ve been on the internet lately (we know you have) you’ve probably read that the mobile gaming industry is on the rise. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned vet, there’s always more to know about the fast-paced world of gaming.
We asked our team, “what’s one thing you think everyone should know about mobile games and development?” After the expected, “I can’t pick just one,” here’s what they said.
1. “There is a game for everyone”
David, our Software Engineer Lead said, “There are games for everyone. Even if you don’t consider yourself a gamer, there is a game for you.” Whether you love solving puzzles, interior designing or crave to solve puzzles through interior design, your app store likely has the solution.
Key takeaway: You’re probably a gamer… you just don’t know it yet.
2. “Mobile gaming is the future”
In 2018, mobile gaming generated 50% of global gaming revenue according to Newzoo. From a business perspective, jumping in the mobile gaming arena might be a wise decision. Even Netflix has thrown its hat in the ring, recently announcing it will begin dabbling in gaming. Allen, our Business Strategist, noted the mobile gaming industry has enormous growth potential.
You might be curious why mobile is growing so rapidly. We can attribute it, in part, to this stat: currently 67% of the world’s population has a mobile phone. This allows for mobile gaming to flourish since most players already have all the tools they need. No extra hardware needed for beginners to join in the fun.
Key takeaway: Mobile gaming is everywhere – and likely isn’t going away anytime soon.
3. “Developing a mobile game is a lot of work”
While you’re playing that mobile game you always turn to when you’re waiting, you probably don’t consider how much time went into making it – and that’s fair. We get it.
However, our Backend Developer Tim, said, “There can be thousands of hours of work that goes into the smallest part of a game.” Crafting a simple user experience is actually very complex. According to 3sidedcube, general app development takes an average of 9 months – the same amount of time it takes to have a child.
Key takeaway: Making a mobile game requires a lot of time and resources.
4. “Nobody works in a silo”
“From art to tech, all parts of game development require constant communication,” says our PM Ashlie. In order to create a cohesive experience for the player, everyone needs to be on the same page during development.
Fast changes and new builds require everyone to be in the loop. Not to mention, most developers and creatives have more than one talent that contributes to the end result of a game, so open communication is important to create the best experience for the player.
Key takeaway: Communication and collaboration makes the dream work.
5. “Planning takes a lot of time”
You’ve likely heard that failure to plan is planning to fail. Not only do you have to plan when you’ll execute your design and development, you also have to plan time to, well, plan.
Adam, our Project Coordinator, says, “Planning takes a lot of time. You have to make short term plans – from days to weeks – and long-term plans – extending to years in the future. You also have to plan for roadblocks and be able to have time allotted to course correct if a build breaks.”
Key takeaway: Have a plan but be able to adjust accordingly.
Mobile games are more accessible, social, and entertaining than ever before. Whether you make mobile games or play them, we want to know. What’s one thing everyone should know about mobile gaming?
