Have you ever walked through the subway or watched people waiting for their turn on an elevator and noticed everyone glued to their phones, swiping and tapping away at mobile games? Isn’t this a horrible waste of time for their eyes, concentration and attention span? Mobile gaming is a popular pastime that continues to evolve, reflecting the latest technology and societal trends. Whether it is a quick swipe of Candy Crush or a deep dive into the complexities of Battle Royale, mobile games have become an essential part of modern life.

While it is easy to dismiss mobile games as a waste of time, they offer a unique learning opportunity for players that are willing to invest the time and effort. They can keep the brain active, improve memory and enhance problem-solving skills. This is why it’s important to develop quality games that are not only enjoyable to play but also challenging enough to make them worth playing again and again.

Aside from the entertainment value, mobile games can be used as a way to communicate with friends, create social connections and even build communities that have real-world ramifications. In fact, research has shown that senior citizens who engage in mobile gaming are happier and have lower depression rates than those who don’t. Moreover, the socialization and communication that takes place in these game-based communities can lead to better health outcomes in the long run.

One of the most important aspects of mobile games is their ability to engage players in quick decisions and action-based gameplay. This is especially true for multiplayer games, which can be played with other players either remotely over the Internet or locally on a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection. These multiplayer games can be asynchronous or live-based, with random players matched together and competing in a ranked tournament. Mobile games also support augmented reality functionality, which combines virtual and physical elements to add an extra dimension of interactivity to the gameplay.

The popularity of mobile games has inspired developers to create educational titles that combine learning with fun, allowing players to learn while having a great time. They have also enabled companies to use games as a marketing tool, creating branded games designed to promote their products and services. However, it is important to note that while some mobile games have a positive impact on mental wellbeing, others can be addictive and can have negative effects on an individual’s health.

When it comes to mobile gaming, it is important to know your audience and how you can best monetize your game. Hyper casuals, for instance, are a great way to bring in revenue through in-app advertising and are easy to create for low investment. On the other hand, mid and hard-core titles across strategy, MMORPG and casino games rely on consumer spend to monetize. These games require a higher budget but can be very rewarding for developers.