Over the years, mobile gaming has become an increasingly popular pastime among people of all ages. With the rise of smartphones and tablets, players can now access a wide range of games that can be played anytime and anywhere. But what are the habits of players today when it comes to mobile gaming? Let’s take a look.
Mobile gaming is on the rise
Mobile gaming has come a long way since the early days of Snake on Nokia phones. According to a report by Newzoo, there are now over 2.8 billion mobile gamers worldwide, and this number is expected to grow to 3.3 billion by 2023. In 2020 alone, mobile gaming generated $77.2 billion in revenue, accounting for 51% of the global gaming market.
One of the reasons for the popularity of mobile gaming is its accessibility. Unlike console or PC gaming, which requires expensive hardware and a dedicated space, mobile games can be played on devices that most people already own – their smartphones. This means that players can access their favorite games whenever they have some free time, whether it’s during their commute, waiting in line, or relaxing at home.
Types of mobile games
Many different types of mobile games are available, catering to a wide range of interests and preferences. Some of the most popular genres include:
- Casual games: These are simple games that are easy to pick up and play, such as puzzle games, match-three games, and endless runners.
- Action games: These are games that involve fast-paced action and require quick reflexes, such as first-person shooters, fighting games, and platformers.
- Strategy games: These are games that require careful planning and decision-making, such as simulation games, tower defense games, and real-time strategy games.
- Online casino games: These are typically played for real money and include slots, poker, blackjack, and other popular casino games.
A small but significant niche: casino games
Online casino games have grown significantly in recent years. People play them casually in various casino apps available through app marketplaces, and a large number also attend real money casinos. The global online gambling market was valued at $45.8 billion in 2017 and is projected to reach $94.4 billion by 2024, growing at a CAGR of 10.9%. These games offer convenience, allowing players to experience the thrill of gambling from the comfort of their own homes or while on the go. Additionally, online casino games offer a wide range of payment options, making it easier for players to manage their finances and play without any barriers. Bonuses and promotions are also available, including welcome bonuses, free spins, and other offers to enhance players’ overall gaming experience.
A very diverse demographic
One of the reasons why it’s becoming the leading platform for gaming is because of the diversity of its players. Every demographic plays on smartphones, from children to seniors, and this has made it a popular pastime worldwide.
The different demographics of mobile gamers tend to prefer different types of games. For instance, casual games like Candy Crush or Angry Birds tend to be more popular among women, while men tend to enjoy action-packed games like Call of Duty or Fortnite. By the way, casual games are the most popular game category on Android, Statista’s numbers show. Children tend to enjoy games that are colorful and easy to understand, like Subway Surfers or Fruit Ninja. Older gamers, on the other hand, tend to gravitate towards puzzle games, card games, and word games like Sudoku, Solitaire, and Scrabble. These games are less visually demanding and require less physical dexterity, making them more accessible for seniors.
It’s worth noting that the demographic of mobile gamers is not limited to age or gender. People from all walks of life enjoy mobile gaming, including busy professionals, stay-at-home parents, and even celebrities. This diversity of players has made it possible for mobile gaming to become a dominant force in the gaming industry.
Smartphones and games – a match made in heaven
The time it takes for a smartphone owner to install a game on their device after purchase varies depending on the individual. However, according to a survey, 32% of respondents said they downloaded a game within the first week of getting a new phone. Additionally, 16% said they downloaded a game within the first day of getting a new phone, while 17% said they downloaded a game within the first month.
As for the average amount of time spent playing games on a smartphone, studies suggest that it’s around 30 minutes to an hour per day. Of course, this varies depending on the individual and their habits. Some may play games for hours on end, while others may not play at all.
In terms of the number of games that smartphone owners have installed on their devices simultaneously, the average is around 10-15 games. However, this can vary widely depending on the individual. Some people may have only a few games installed, while others may have dozens. It’s worth noting that many smartphone users may download games to try them out but then never actually play them, leading to a higher number of installed games than regularly played ones.
Conclusion
The rise of mobile gaming has revolutionized the gaming industry, providing players with a convenient and accessible way to play games anytime and anywhere. With over 2.8 billion mobile gamers worldwide, the popularity of mobile gaming is only continuing to grow, with projections indicating that the number of mobile gamers will reach 3.3 billion by 2023. The accessibility of mobile gaming, combined with the availability of different game genres, has made it possible for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy gaming on their smartphones.