Gaming is a popular pastime for people of all ages and genders. This is partly why the UK games market rakes in a massive £7.05bn each year. But it hasn’t always looked the way it does today - from traditional games played in bingo halls to being able to continuously tap and play on your mobile device, we’ll explore how the mobile gaming industry has evolved over the years.
How has the mobile gaming industry changed?
Accessibility
One of the biggest ways that mobile gaming has been revolutionised over the years is the rise in smartphones. While there was once a time when you could only participate in online gaming if you were glued to your television screen, nowadays you can play on the go with the help of your mobile device.
As 87% of adults in the UK own smartphones and 72% of those have internet, it’s no surprise that accessibility to games has increased. With virtually everyone owning a mobile phone, it opens far more gaming opportunities.
Innovation in gameplay
Another way mobile gaming has been revolutionised is through developments in gameplay. Whereas graphics used to be average at best, nowadays technology has encouraged far more diverse gaming experiences. For example, some mobile games now feature augmented reality features allowing gamers to experience realistic combats and adventures.
A Social Gaming Revolution
Gaming often has connotations of sitting alone in a bedroom, but this couldn’t be further from the truth nowadays. For example, many online games such as online bingo now have vibrant communities where players can chat and play at the same time. This community feel has opened up new opportunities for different games based on TV shows that users all enjoy and can discuss - for example, Deal or No Deal online bingo.
What impact has social gaming had on traditional gaming?
As mobile gaming - including mobile bingo - has grown in popularity, companies have had to quickly adapt to stop themselves from being left behind. Even established companies are now moving towards mobile gaming, with many companies developing exclusive apps for users looking to play games on the move.
Final thoughts...
The mobile gaming revolution has transformed the gaming industry. From something that was once confined to the comfort of a bedroom or living room, nowadays gaming is far more widespread. The extensive ownership of smartphones has untethered gaming from screens in favour of gaming on the move.
As well as technological advancements such as augmented reality, gaming has become far more social, with many gaming companies replacing solitary gaming with vibrant online communities.
While the future of gaming is ever-changing, if there’s one thing that’s for certain, it’s that gaming companies need to develop their mobile gaming offering to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market.
