What the Future of Mobile Gaming Might Look Like
Mobile gaming has been a part of mainstream culture since Tetris hit the very small screen in 1994 (bet you thought it was Snake in 1997). Fast forward 27 years and the landscape has evolved to include multi-player experiences, incredible graphics, and epic storylines. But, what’s next?
Here’s a list of 5 things experts expect for the future of mobile gaming.
1. Financially, mobile gaming is projected to grow.
$100 billion – that’s the revenue mobile gaming is set to reach by the end of 2021, according to Newzoo. The 2010’s were a double-digit decade of growth for the industry. With advances in tech and the saturation of iPhones (or Androids, we don’t judge), that number is likely to continue growing into the next decade.
2. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) will become increasingly common.
Remember back in 2016 when Oculus VR headsets were all the rage? Well, developers and engineers are continuously working on ways to bring that tech to our phones.
Features like Google AR and those flaw-erasing, super-popular Snapchat filters have made use of this tech already. Over time, experts expect people will become more accustomed to AR and VR, adding new elements to the mobile experience.
3. More devices will be designed with mobile gaming in mind.
Tech companies like Huawei, Asus, and Lenovo, both well-known for making computers, have released phones recommended for mobile gamers. Topping the list of features, they offer include faster refresh rates, gorgeous displays, and dual front-facing speakers.
As graphics and features continue to excel, the devices used to play will follow suit. Food for thought: If Apple made a phone for mobile gaming, would people buy it? Until then, check out TechRadar’s recommended gaming phones here.
4. 5G will make it easier to play in real-time.
One thing that’s created a community amongst console gamers throughout the years is the ability to team-up and play immersive games in real-time. With the emergence of 5G, mobile-first products will increasingly draw in players for this same reason.
Enjoy the camaraderie and instant action on the go? Get ready. Faster download speeds and stronger internet will create seamless playing experiences according to an article from the WSJ.
5. Cross-platform capabilities will continue to grow.
Whether a gamer’s primary console is a PlayStation or a Samsung, developers are making strides to connect them all. Fortnite now allows players from all platforms to compete in its free-to-play battle royale game.
The industry expects to see other companies expanding their cross-platform capabilities to attract new players and reach new markets.
We want to know: what are you looking forward to most? The surge of 5G networks, cross-platform expansion, or the potential for holograms? With the mobile gaming industry on the up-and-up, it’ll be interesting to see what we’re doing with our phones in another 27 years.