Mobile gaming is part of day-to-day life for so many people, but the mobile technology revolution started relatively slowly before blowing up in recent years.
From straightforward games like Snake being added to mobiles as an extra, to consumer demands ensuring developers focus on providing the technology to facilitate more complicated gaming, the mobile revolution has the gaming evolution to thank.
Mobile consumers can now enjoy state-of-the-art, immersive gaming experiences or the ability to enjoy the most popular casino games without depositing large sums of money. Betting expert Khadija Bilal explains that casinos can be accessed with deposits of just $1.
The mobile gaming industry is now a multi-billion dollar, global success and looks set to continue improving.
The Start of Mobile Gaming
Mobile gaming had a taste of what was to come when a variant of Tetris was introduced to the Hagenuk MT-2000 mobile device in 1994. Three years later Nokia launched devices with Snake pre-installed.
Snake is a straightforward game that lets the player level moving the snake about the screen and eating food. This makes the snake grow longer, making it more difficult for the player to avoid running into their own tail and ending the game.
The Introduction of Java Technology
The introduction of Java technology to mobile devices allowed more advanced game designs to be played on them. The addictive nature of games like Snake paved the way for the gaming industry to introduce games like Pac-Man, and mobile developers picked up on the potential.
Enter the Smartphone
The first iPhone hit the market in 2007 and it is not an exaggeration to say it helped to change the world. While phones were primarily used for making phone calls or sending texts, iPhones transformed the industry.
Over time it became possible for consumers to have complete entertainment systems in their pocket thanks to mobile technology. High-quality cameras, the ability to store and stream music, movies, and TV shows, and the platform to play a variety of games swept the world.
Games like Temple Run, Flappy Bird, Angry Birds, and Candy Crush all enjoyed incredible success.
It also allowed other industries to benefit, with online casino apps allowing users the freedom to enjoy their favorite casino games and betting markets.
Consumers can now enjoy a variety of betting options including crypto casinos, non-gamstop casinos, and dedicated sports betting apps.
Free to Play and Paid Mobile Gaming
The monetisation of mobile gaming is split between paid apps where users pay a one time fee or subscription to download and play premium games. Alternatively, free options are also available which include advertisements and in-game purchases.
Both models are extremely lucrative, with many choosing free options to test games before investing in the ad-free premium model.
Console Game Integration
Popular console games have also enjoyed games adapted for mobile devices, allowing players to enjoy lighter versions. Global smash hits including Call of Duty and Football Manager have enjoyed huge success from their mobile adaptions.
As mobile technology continues to improve, it will facilitate immersive gaming experiences from the world's biggest game brands and developers.