As we bid farewell to 2020 and hello to 2021, it's time to take a closer look at what's in store for mobile game design trends. Our analyst team has been busy conjuring up predictions for the year ahead, and here are four exciting developments that will shape the future of mobile apps.
The Rise of Mobile Social 2.0
In recent years, we've seen a significant shift towards fostering community experiences within mobile games. Think social spaces where players can hang out with friends, show off cosmetics, play mini-games, or even watch videos. China has been at the forefront of this trend, with popular titles like Audition Online and QQ Dance offering these types of social features. In Japan, rhythm game Project Sekai: Colorful Stage feat. Hatsune Miku takes it to the next level with its "virtual live" mode, where players can enjoy concerts and react by throwing effects to the stage.
The West has also caught on, with massive games like COD Mobile adding hangout areas and Roblox introducing a new space for players to mix and enjoy shows. These social spaces are not only a great way to keep players engaged but also provide opportunities for monetization through decorative items and avatar customization. Who knows? We might see more collaborations with fashion brands like Gucci, as seen in Tennis Clash.
The Evolution of Match3 Puzzle Games
The Match3 puzzle genre has been a staple in the mobile gaming world, particularly in the Western market. With games like Gardenscapes and Homescapes constantly innovating their gameplay designs, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in 2021. Project Makeover is an excellent example of this, combining home design elements with makeover game mechanics. The narrative layer adds a new dimension to the traditional Match3 experience.
Despite the competitive nature of the puzzle genre, there's still room for innovation and creativity. We might see Chinese casual games making their way into the Western market, offering unique twists on familiar gameplay concepts. With China's expertise in developing high-quality casual products, it's not hard to imagine at least one more Chinese-originated game entering the top-grossing charts by the end of 2021.
Shooter Games: The Need for Freshness
The shooter space is dominated by PUBG, Call of Duty, and Fortnite. To stay relevant, these games need to offer something new and exciting. Lilith Games' upcoming title Farlight 84 promises a mix of team-based gameplay and cartoonish graphics, which could be just what the doctor ordered. We're yet to see the full gameplay loop, but with Lilith's track record for producing high-quality games, Farlight 84 has the potential to shake things up.
Interestingly, some shooters are moving away from battle royale modes, opting instead for more traditional multiplayer experiences. CrossFire is a prime example of this, hiding its battle royale mode behind a menu button. This shift could indicate that players are looking for new types of experiences within the shooter genre.
The Potential for MMOs to Make a Splash
In the West, mobile MMO games have been slow to gain traction. However, we might be on the cusp of something big with the potential release of an "MMO of Genshin Impact" caliber. With its stunning visuals and engaging gameplay, Genshin Impact has captured the hearts of many players. If a similar mobile MMO can replicate this success, it could be a game-changer for the industry.
As we look to the future of mobile apps, one thing is certain: innovation will be key to staying ahead of the curve. With AI-powered features and social spaces taking center stage, 2021 promises to be an exciting year for mobile gamers.