The mobile gaming industry has been on the rise again, with IAP revenue, play time, and number of sessions all increasing in 2024. As publishers navigate the challenges of the industry, new approaches are forming to foster innovation, drive player engagement, and boost revenue. Here are seven top mobile gaming trends that are shaking things up and redefining how publishers approach their business strategies.
Alternative App Stores and Direct-to-Consumer Webshops
The rise of alternative app stores and direct-to-consumer (DTC) webshops is a significant trend in the industry. With recent changes in regulations loosening the grip held by app store titans like Apple and Google, publishers are jumping at the opportunity to take control of their monetization efforts. Alternative channels like Epic Games' app store and Aptoide have become popular in recent years, offering a 30% revenue share compared to traditional app stores.
Hybrid-Casual Games Continue to Dominate
Hybrid-casual games have taken the top spot in terms of popularity and mobile gaming market share. By combining simplistic gameplay design with progression and monetization systems, this model has mass appeal to mobile gamers worldwide. In 2024, downloads of hybrid-casual titles grew by 3.4% year-over-year (YoY), and had massive IAP spend growth of 37% YoY.
AI Tools Across the Funnel
Artificial intelligence (AI) has continued to be leveraged in all facets of mobile gaming – from ad creative and design to post-launch analytics. With AI platforms like ChatGPT, Tableau Pulse, and Google's recent Veo 3 taking the industry by storm, developers and publishers alike have a number of powerful tools at their disposal.
Long and Short-Term IP Brand Collaborations
Long-term collaborations between brands and IPs are becoming increasingly popular in the mobile gaming industry. These partnerships not only drive revenue but also offer new opportunities for brand exposure and player engagement. As players become more discerning, these collaborations will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry.
New Global Markets Emerging as Major Players
New global markets are emerging as major players in the mobile gaming industry. With growth expected in regions like Asia, Latin America, and Africa, publishers must adapt their strategies to cater to these new audiences. AI-powered tools can help facilitate this process by providing insights into player behavior and preferences.
User Discovery through Web2App UA Channels
User discovery is a critical component of the mobile gaming industry. With web2app UA channels becoming increasingly popular, users are more likely to discover games that align with their interests. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more emphasis on user discovery and engagement.
Cloud Gaming Takes Off
Cloud gaming has finally taken off as a viable option for mobile gamers. With cloud gaming, players can access high-quality games without the need for expensive hardware or downloads. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, offering new opportunities for publishers and developers alike.
By embracing these trends and leveraging AI-powered tools, the mobile gaming industry is poised for continued growth and innovation. As we look to the future, it's clear that the role of AI will only continue to grow in importance.