People playing games on their phones with characters from the mobile games coming to life behind them

What is Mobile Gaming? A Guide to Mobile Games

Table of Contents

Mobile gaming has rapidly emerged as a dominant force in the entertainment industry, capturing the attention of millions worldwide. In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors driving the explosive growth of mobile gaming, its widespread popularity across various demographics, and the significant revenue it generates. We’ll delve into the convenience and technological advancements that make mobile gaming appealing, the diverse range of available games, and the social aspects that enhance the gaming experience. Additionally, we’ll discuss the transition of popular PC and console games to mobile platforms, how emulators can bridge the gap for those who prefer playing on larger screens, and share our top mobile game picks for 2024.

We’ll also tackle the debate on whether mobile gaming is “real” gaming, emphasizing that it’s all about personal enjoyment and accessibility. Furthermore, we’ll examine the impact of emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming on the mobile gaming industry, as well as the environmental and sustainability considerations. Lastly, we’ll explore the social and community aspects of mobile gaming, including the rise of e-sports and competitive mobile gaming leagues.

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the mobile gaming scene, this post will provide valuable insights into why mobile gaming is more popular than ever and what the future holds for this dynamic and ever-evolving industry.

Mobile Gaming – A Growing Trend

Mobile gaming has become an explosive trend in recent years, driven by several key factors and impressive statistics. As of 2023, the global mobile gaming market generated around $116.4 billion in revenue, accounting for over half of the total global gaming market​ (MordorIntel)​. This growth is expected to continue, with projections estimating the market to reach $164.81 billion by 2029​ (Udonis Mobile Marketing Agency)​.

The popularity of mobile gaming is underscored by its massive user base. In 2021, there were 1.29 billion mobile gamers in Asia alone, with China leading the market​ (Techjury)​. Globally, younger generations are significant contributors, with 81% of Gen Alpha and 80% of Gen Z actively engaging in mobile gaming​ (MAF)​. This broad demographic appeal highlights the accessibility and widespread adoption of mobile games.

Additionally, mobile games are not just popular among younger users. In the United States, 46% of the population played mobile games in 2021, demonstrating its cross-generational appeal​ (Techjury)​. This trend is further supported by the substantial in-app spending, particularly in RPG games, which contributed significantly to the overall revenue​ (MordorIntel)​.

Why is Mobile Gaming so Popular?

Mobile gaming has skyrocketed in popularity, captivating millions worldwide. The convenience of playing games anytime, anywhere is a significant draw, making mobile gaming accessible to a broad audience. With the advancement of smartphone technology, mobile games now offer stunning graphics and engaging gameplay that rival traditional console and PC games. Additionally, the diverse range of games available caters to all interests and age groups, from casual puzzle games to competitive multiplayer experiences. The social aspect of mobile gaming, with features like multiplayer modes and in-game chat, enhances the appeal, allowing players to connect and compete with friends globally. Frequent updates and new content keep the gaming experience fresh and exciting. As smartphones continue to evolve, the mobile gaming industry is set to grow even further, solidifying its position as a dominant force in the entertainment world.

Why Switch to Mobile Gaming?

Mobile gaming is a game changer for people with busy lives, or budget gamers. As phones become more powerful and cheaper, it allows for greater performance and lower barrier to entry when it comes to gaming. It’s brilliant if you have a spare five minutes between meetings at work, travel to university on the train, or are catching a flight. More and more of your favourite games are moving to mobile as well, with many of them offering a mobile-versions of their games.

What Popular Games have Mobile Versions?

When we speak to PC and console gamers, one of the most frequent reason for not playing mobile games is that they can’t play their favourite game – although for a lot of games this simply isn’t true! Popular games like Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, PUBG, and ARK.

A personal favourite of mine is Call of Duty mobile – there is also a Warzone version for all you storm-chasing gamers out there. The mobile version includes all of the favourite maps from previous COD’s such as Nuketown, Rust, and Terminal etc. It has Multiplayer (casual and ranked), Battle Royal, and even Zombies.

So have a look on the app store, and you may be able to find some of your favourite games with mobile versions! Particularly Android phones will have access to more games, although sideloading is coming to iOS soon, so iPhones will also have the ability to access more games!

Some of Our favourite Mobile Games in 2024

We asked some of the team here at Theria, and the results are in.

  1. Evony: The King’s Return – Unsurprisingly, considering Theria was originally made solely as a guide site for Evony, our teams favourite game is Evony: The King’s Return. This is a multiplayer game where you battle it out with your alliance to remain victorious of your kingdom (or server as its called in game), before branching out and conquering enemy servers. Eventually as you rise the ranks, you will be enter into prestigious alliance versus alliance battles, to find out what team reigns victorious across all of Evony. This game is great due to its social dynamics, and its in-depth PVP mechanics. Whilst the game is P2W (pay-to-win), as with most games in this genre, there is certainly a place for F2P (free-to-play) players to have fun, and compete with their team.
  2. Legend of Mushroom – A new mobile game, released this year, is for more casual mobile gamers. In this game, you start as a level 1 ‘Mushroom’ (name of the Mushroom-like characters) where you have to kill entities through PVE to level up your gear and become stronger. As you progress you will unlock new battles, PVP, and families (the name given to alliances in this game). Overall this game is a pretty fun casual game, where the daily activities can be completed in roughly 10 minutes – although if you have more time to kill, then you can certainly spend a lot more time playing, to fine tune your character. One thing we like about this game is the number of updates – its constantly being updated, with cool new features being added all the time. The dev’s also listen to the community, which is a fresh of breath air for the mobile gaming community.
  3. Call of Dragons – Released last year, Call of Dragons is a PVP / PVE multiplayer game, where you team up and conquer the land. Here you level up your town, train troops, and upgrade your dragons. Call of Dragons, or CoD for short, has a great UI and has an awesome competitive scene. We thoroughly recommend trying this game out if you like multiplayer PVP mobile games, but are bored of the standard copy / paste there seems to be in strategic mobile war games these days.

How to Play Mobile Games on PC

We appreciate one of the great things about console or PC gaming is the immersion aspect – the big screen, headphones on, sitting on Discord with your friends, immersing yourself in great graphics. This is something that mobile games appears to lack due to the performance limitations of mobile phones, and the small screens associated with mobile gaming – but did you know, you can play mobile games on PC?

Android Emulators, such as BlueStacks, Nox, or Memu, allow you to emulate an Android phone (basically create an Android phone on your computer!). This means that you can play mobile games on the big screen, like you would with PC or console. It also means that you can alter the computer resources to increase the quality of gameplay, by adding additional RAM or graphical support. Furthermore, it enables you to play with mouse + keyboard, or controller, allow for greater accessibility, and accuracy (mouse and keyboard is a god send for FPS mobile games).

We have an entire blog written about Android Emulation for mobile games. Check it out by clicking here.

The Ups and Downs of Mobile Gaming – In-App Purchases

In-game purchases, or microtransactions, have become a staple of the mobile gaming industry. These transactions can significantly impact a player’s experience, offering both advantages and disadvantages.

The Upsides of In-Game Purchases

One of the most significant benefits of microtransactions is the lower barrier to entry. Unlike traditional PC and console games that often come with a hefty price tag of around $60, many mobile games are free to download and play. This model allows a wider audience to access and enjoy these games without an initial financial commitment. Players can try out various games without spending money upfront, deciding to invest only if they genuinely enjoy the experience.

Moreover, microtransactions can enhance gameplay by offering optional purchases that cater to individual preferences. Players can buy cosmetics, such as skins or costumes, that personalize their gaming experience without affecting gameplay balance. For those who want to progress faster, in-game purchases can provide time-saving advantages like extra lives, boosts, or in-game currency. This flexibility allows players to choose how they want to engage with the game, whether they prefer a slow, steady progression or a quicker path to higher levels and better gear.

The Downsides of In-Game Purchases

Despite the benefits, in-game purchases come with notable downsides. A significant concern is the “pay-to-win” (P2W) model prevalent in many multiplayer games. In these games, players who spend money often gain substantial advantages over those who don’t, creating an uneven playing field. This can lead to frustration and a sense of unfairness among players who cannot or choose not to spend additional money.

The reliance on microtransactions can also lead to excessive spending. Games are often designed to encourage continuous spending through various tactics, such as offering limited-time deals, exclusive items, or “loot boxes” with randomized rewards. This can result in players spending far more than they would have on a traditional game, sometimes without fully realizing it. The addictive nature of these purchases can be particularly concerning for younger players or those prone to impulsive spending.

Additionally, the focus on monetization can sometimes detract from the overall quality of the game. Developers might prioritize creating content that drives purchases rather than enhancing gameplay or storytelling. This shift can lead to a less satisfying gaming experience, as players may feel that the game is more about making money than providing genuine enjoyment.

Balancing Microtransactions

The key to balancing the ups and downs of in-game purchases lies in transparency and fairness. Games that clearly communicate what players can expect from their purchases and ensure that non-paying players can still enjoy the game can strike a healthy balance. Developers must strive to create engaging and enjoyable games first and foremost, with microtransactions as a secondary feature that enhances, rather than detracts from, the core experience.

In conclusion, while in-game purchases can make gaming more accessible and personalized, it’s essential to be aware of their potential pitfalls. By understanding both the benefits and drawbacks, players can make informed decisions about how they engage with mobile games, ensuring a fun and rewarding experience.

Is Mobile Gaming still Gaming?

Mobile gamers often catches a lot of stray bullets from PC or console gamers for not being ‘real’ gamers, which has a lot of people asking if mobile gaming is still gaming? My answer: Of course it is!

Whilst its not traditional gaming where you often will sit down with a headset on, clicking away on your $200 mechanical keyboard, and accidently flicking your cup of water with your mouse half way across the room when you are trying to frag (speaking from personal experience), mobile gaming is definitely still gaming! I believe that gaming is all about personal preference, that’s why the debate has raged on for so long between consoles and the ‘PC Master Race’ – at the end of the day, there is no right or wrong way to game, as long as you have fun.

Most gamers play to relax after a hard day of work, to socialise with friends, or to escape the real world for a little bit. Mobile gaming offers all the same benefits as the other platforms such as PC or console, but without the high-cost to get started – and better yet, you can play mobile games from practically anywhere! Where its on a flight, on a bus, in the office, in the bathroom, or even (untested) in space!

Man sitting on the toilet in space playing mobile games on his phone. It is a starry background with planets visible to show people can play mobile games from (nearly) anywhere.

The Impact of Emerging Technology

The mobile gaming industry is continuously evolving, driven by the integration of emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming. These innovations are not only enhancing the gaming experience but also shaping the future of the industry. Additionally, as the sector grows, so do concerns about its environmental impact and sustainability, prompting the need for more eco-friendly practices.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

AR and VR are revolutionizing mobile gaming by offering immersive and interactive experiences that go beyond traditional gameplay. AR games, such as “Pokémon GO” and “Harry Potter: Wizards Unite,” overlay digital elements onto the real world, creating a unique blend of reality and fantasy. These games encourage players to explore their surroundings, adding a physical dimension to gaming that was previously limited to screen interactions.

VR, although more commonly associated with high-end headsets and gaming consoles, is making its way into mobile gaming through devices like the Oculus Quest and Google Cardboard. VR games provide a fully immersive experience, transporting players into entirely virtual environments. As mobile hardware continues to improve, we can expect more sophisticated and accessible VR experiences on smartphones, making it a growing trend in mobile gaming.

Cloud Gaming

Cloud gaming is another game-changer for the mobile gaming industry. Services like Google Stadia, NVIDIA GeForce Now, and Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming allow players to stream high-quality games directly to their mobile devices without the need for powerful hardware. This technology reduces the reliance on local processing power and storage, enabling even low-end smartphones to run graphically intensive games seamlessly.

The potential of cloud gaming lies in its ability to democratize access to top-tier gaming experiences. Players can enjoy a vast library of games without worrying about device limitations, making high-quality gaming more accessible and affordable. As 5G networks continue to roll out globally, the enhanced connectivity and reduced latency will further boost the adoption and performance of cloud gaming on mobile devices.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

As the mobile gaming industry grows, so does its environmental footprint. The production, usage, and disposal of electronic devices contribute to e-waste and carbon emissions. Additionally, the energy consumption of data centers supporting cloud gaming services is a growing concern.

To address these issues, the industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability. Some companies are adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using recycled materials in device manufacturing, implementing energy-efficient technologies, and supporting e-waste recycling programs. Moreover, cloud gaming providers are exploring ways to reduce the carbon footprint of their data centers by using renewable energy sources and optimizing server efficiency.

Gamers can also play a role in promoting sustainability by supporting companies that prioritize environmentally friendly practices and by being mindful of their own device usage and disposal habits.

The Social and Community Aspects of Mobile Gaming

Mobile gaming has transcended its roots as a solo activity to become a major social platform, connecting players worldwide through competitive and cooperative play. The rise of e-sports and competitive gaming leagues has significantly contributed to this trend, fostering a robust community spirit and offering new opportunities for social interaction.

The Rise of E-Sports and Competitive Mobile Gaming

The e-sports landscape, traditionally dominated by PC and console games, has seen a substantial shift towards mobile gaming. Titles such as “PUBG Mobile,” “Call of Duty: Mobile,” and “Arena of Valor” have become e-sports staples, drawing massive audiences and competitors globally. These games host major tournaments, like the PUBG Mobile Global Championship, which feature significant prize pools and viewership numbers that rival traditional sports events​ (TechCrunch)​​ (TechCrunch)​.

Competitive mobile gaming has democratized access to e-sports. The affordability and ubiquity of smartphones mean that more players from diverse backgrounds can participate in these events. This inclusivity helps to build a larger, more varied community, promoting a sense of global camaraderie among gamers.

Building Communities and Social Connections

Mobile games with strong social features have helped create vibrant gaming communities. Games such as “Clash of Clans” and “Among Us” encourage players to form alliances, join guilds, and collaborate towards common objectives. Features like in-game chat and voice communication enable players to strategize and socialize, enhancing the overall gaming experience​ (TechCrunch)​.

Moreover, mobile gaming platforms have integrated social media-like features, allowing players to share achievements, stream gameplay, and follow each other’s progress. This integration fosters deeper connections and keeps players engaged with the gaming community.