In 2017 we all witnessed the phenomenal growth of mobile gaming. In fact, according to some studies mobile games now represent 43% of the total market value of games. It has been clear to see that game developers and operators have all embraced and accepted the real potential of mobile gaming, and devoted substantial resources to ensure technological and innovative advances in the mobile space. This trend has been consistent throughout the gaming world, with even online casino and slot games enjoying similar numbers. It actually has given rise to the success of mobile casino brands like mFortune, who have become one of the leading mobile names in the business; and are so committed to the cause that they even produce their own exclusive games.
As a result, in 2018, we can all expect even more specular growth in the industry. There are reports which anticipate worldwide consumer spend on all mobile app stores will increase by a minimum of 30% and means that revenues will be more than $110 billion in 2018. This has already started, as the likes of Apple and Google are already investing heavily in making the operating systems of their phones even more powerful. Furthermore, last year there was a huge focus on ARKit from Apple, with Google going ahead with ARCore; both of which underlines the two companies belief in Augmented Reality.
Augmented Reality (AR) is the integration of digital information with the user’s environment, all in real time. The gaming industry is anticipating the use of Augmented Reality technology to be utilised more and more in the development of games, and there seems to be no stopping; as we have already noted Apple and Google have already planned for this trend. Players will be able to use their mobile and/or head mounted device to enter a whole new world where near enough anything is possible. The company Niantic Labs has already seen huge success with Pokemon GO, and it will come as no surprise that they are already busy creating a new game, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite.
Furthermore, along with AR, we will be seeing more games incorporating the Virtual Reality concept. Virtual Reality is the creation of a simulated environment using computer technology. From a practical perspective, it means that players will be able to be immersed and engage in 3D worlds; with all the senses, vision, smell, touch and hearing being involved and captivated. All things being considered, this technology is finally beginning to take hold and has the potential of taking gaming to the next level. Testimony to this, is how quickly gaming developers like Net Entertainment have already embraced the concept and games like Virtual Reality Gonzo’s Quest has already been released.
eSports is another aspect of gaming that has grown from appealing to a very small specific audience to a multi-billion dollar competitive stage, with millions of people involved on every level. In fact, eSports is now predicted to generate approximately $2.5 billion by 2020; and we have already seen a marriage made in heaven between eSports and the mobile gaming industry. More specifically, fans can expect to see more mega tournaments with prizes staring in the millions. The first tournament to hit the million dollar mark was the Clash Royale Championship, which was made possible by mobile game developer Supercell. The was a huge success and we can safely assume that as mobile devices become more capable, mobile games will become more competitive. With prize pools, audiences, and players increasing in the competitive arena it’s certainly likely that we’ll see even more mega money tournaments in the future.
Therefore, hold to your mobile devices, the fun has only just begun. We are all set to benefit and be thoroughly entertained in 2018 and beyond, with any device that fits in the palm of your hands.
[Written by External Partner]