Very few mobile games made in the same year as Gameloft’s iconic mobile racer can confidently say that they’re still running at full capacity today. What makes this even more impressive is that it applies to numerous big-budget games made in the ensuing years as well. Asphalt 8 has managed to become a multi-billion-dollar success and is yet to fall.
Today, you can download the game and immediately have access to every feature that has been available since its inception in 2013, along with the endless list of new content that has been added over the years. Multiplayer is still in full swing with short to no waiting times and the daily events section is updated more frequently than ever with new things to do.
But, how has a mobile game managed to last so long?
It Was Way Ahead of Its Time
Even with smartphones and tablets becoming increasingly powerful, it seems as if mobile developers have taken a step back in terms of developing high-end games that fully utilize the power of new technology. These days, you’re more likely to see the app stores updated with more simple games such as the ever-popular endless runners.
This, coupled with the fact that Asphalt 8 was already years ahead from a visual and physics standpoint, makes it a stunning game to look at and play even in 2018. Graphics look crisp and the game runs incredibly smoothly. Crash physics are satisfying and visual updates such as Metal has helped add more flair to the game.
A Dedicated Community
This is a bit of a double-edged sword. On one hand, you have a dedicated community of free-to-play players, who have taken the liberty of grinding through the endless list of races and objectives over the years that Asphalt 8 has been out. On the other side are the paying players, some of which have invested hundreds of dollars into the game.
Many “car packs” and upgrades cost a hefty amount of real-world currency and many players are willing to take the plunge. This gives them a rather compelling reason to continue playing and smash the leaderboards with their newly acquired cars and currency.
Due to the constant updates and intricate mechanics of the game, numerous communities and guides have popped up online as well. Websites such as the Asphalt 8 Wiki and Game Guide World provide insights and knowledge for curious players.
The Developers Simply Haven’t Given Up
To this day, Asphalt 8 receives constant content updates, adding more and more to the game. Whether it be new cars, more race tracks, a new game mechanic and, most recently, motorbikes, there’s always something new to do. This will inevitably compel old players to come back and try out the new stuff when they see an update pending.
Conclusion
For any game to succeed, it needs to have two things: An active community and dedicated developers. Asphalt 8 has that and has subsequently flourished as a result. But as the long wait for Asphalt 9 (like the asphalt 9 mod androidhackers) continues, there’s no telling what the future holds.
How many of you played this game? Do you still play and find it enjoyable? Let us know in the comments section below!