It is remarkable to consider the meteoric growth of mobile gaming in recent years. What was once a niche activity has now become mainstream, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought in many new users who previously had not been interested in gaming/mobile gaming. Inevitably, the sharp rise of mobile gaming has had a notable impact on traditional gaming. This post will explore the rise of mobile gaming and how it has changed the gaming landscape in just a few years. 

 

Growth Statistics 

First, it is helpful to look at statistics that show the incredible growth of mobile gaming in recent times. Revenue in the mobile games market is projected to reach a staggering $126.06 billion in 2025 and is projected to account for up to 55% of total gaming revenue by 2026 (up from 49% in 2023). There are a few factors behind the growth of mobile gaming in recent years, including broader access to smartphones and free-to-play games, increased investment from the Middle East, and converging mobile and PC/console games.  

 

Impact on Traditional Gaming 

So, what impact has the growth of mobile gaming had on traditional gaming, such as PC and console gaming? One of the most notable changes has been a shift in player demographics. Traditional gaming has historically been seen as a market mainly built up of children, teens, and adolescents, and typically male. This has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic, with people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds turning to mobile gaming, particular casino games like roulette. This has led to the development of games in wide-ranging genres and changed the public perception of “gamers”. 

 

In addition to evolving demographics, mobile gaming has also changed the way in which games are developed. Nowadays, there is a real emphasis on mobile-friendly games that are easy to play on any screen and device. Additionally, micro transactions have become prominent in all types of games as an effective way to monetise games and maximise profits, whether this is in-game currency, cosmetic items, and unlocking new content. 

 

Economic & Industry Changes 

The rise of mobile gaming has also affected the business models of traditional gaming companies. Many are now taking advantage of new revenue streams, such as in-app purchases, subscription models, and advertising, as a way to maximise profits. Optional purchases for in-game items have proven to be a hugely lucrative business model in the mobile gaming industry, so it is not surprising that it is now being used in traditional gaming. 

 

The sharp growth of mobile gaming in recent years has shaken up the gaming industry and led to a number of notable changes in traditional gaming. With more and more people turning to mobile gaming, it is likely that this influence will only continue in the years to come, as traditional gaming companies like to keep pace and appeal to modern users.