Mobile games development : shift fast or you will be left in the dust

Mobile gaming has really taken off in the past few years and continue to growth. The numbers are impressive. Mobile phone and tablet gaming sales in the U.S. reached $898 million in 2010 according to some forecasts revenues will reach $1.6 billion by 2015.

Let`s try to list key trends in mobile games developmet that can help to cast light on the future of mobile games development

1. The Freemium Model

Potential revenue for freemium apps (download the game for free, and then pay for upgrades such as additional levels, or virtual goods like hats for the characters in the game) outweighs paid apps. While the freemium model seems great in theory, paid games currently rule the industry.
Still it is possible to imagine that publishers will continue to innovate into the freemium space in hopes of increasing profits. As a result, we may see a balancing out of revenue between paid and freemium apps in coming years.

2. Tablet Gamers Download & Play More

Tablet devices have larger screen sizes and more computing power, while still being portable, potentially making them a better fit for gaming than mobile devices.

38% of tablet gamers play five or more hours per week, while only 20% of mobile phone gamers play that much. Tablet gamers even download more paid and free games.

3. Users Crave Multiplayer & Social Features

Customers enjoy multiplayer games for their competitive and social aspects. Despite their digital medium, ‘social’ and ‘multiplayer’ signify human interaction.

The success of some multiplayer-only gamesalso points towards consumer interest in mobile gaming with others.

4. Word of Mouth Is the Key Driver for Game Downloads

How do users hear about new mobile games? The top ways are:

From Friends: More than 50% of mobile game-playing adults learn about new mobile games from friends and family.
In App Stores: About 40% of adults learn about new games within app stores, where hot lists, rankings and user reviews are highlighted.
On Social Sites: 25% of adults hear about new mobile games via social media sites.

Besides these methods, there are also a number of well-trafficked mobile gaming sites that highlight and review games, chronicle new releases and publish cheat codes and tips.

5. 3D applications

Development of 3D apps and mobile games is very much in demand today, much like the demand for Xbox games and PlayStation games. Most analysts agree that in the near future, an average user would be able to have much more interactivity and fun within the mobile itself. Though the 3D gaming experience is at a nascent stage, do not be surprised if 3D games get found in most smart phones in the near future.

Hope these points will help to clarify the future of mobile gaming. And what are you ideas about its future?