It is an unusual point in history, where our relationship to the world around us is in a strange COVID-19 related state of flux. Many are finding that their journey through the lockdown is greatly eased by enjoying the challenge, escape and sense of connection offered by online gaming of all kinds.
So far 2020 has seen a spike in the number of people downloading game apps. New and experienced gamers are turning to online gaming as a useful tool for relaxation, entertainment and as a way of connecting with other people. It has become a meeting place, if you will, for people who would have potentially become much more lonely and isolated within the restrictions of the pandemic. Here we will take a look at the top game apps for Android and iOS in 2020 so far and what it is that has made them so popular.
Slap Kings
With over a million downloads within the last month alone Lion Studios’ Slap Kings has been massively popular. It has easily claimed the title of most downloaded mobile game worldwide during March with well over 35 million people installing the app onto their mobiles. Though most popular in the USA and India, this game has taken the whole world by storm and with the frustration of all the lockdown measures in place is it any wonder that it’s an entire game based on Slapping or Being Slapped.
The idea for the game came from a real event which, though suspected to have originated in America, was held in Moscow. One face slapping champion, come YouTube star, who carries the nickname “pelmen”, after a particular dumpling he’s keen on, is rumoured to have said that it’s “a show not a sport”. Whatever the truth is it’s certain that the mobile gaming version is definitely a much healthier and safer alternative than a face slapping contest.
Draw Climber
More popular in Indonesia and Russia but again reaching a global audience Voodoo’s Draw Climber reached the mark of being the second most installed mobile game of 2020. This quirky little game, which is a million miles away from Slap Kings, begins with the player drawing a pair of legs onto a formless avatar. These legs are then used to race and, of course, climb a series of different obstacles. If using freshly designed legs to compete and pass levels is your creative outlet, perhaps this is the game for you. It is definitely offering something different up to the world’s gamers old and new.
PUBG Mobile
When it comes to PUBG Mobile, Tencent were on to a winner. Its varied gameplay and bleak, post-apocalyptic scenery arguably has a little more depth to offer to players than the previous mentions. Since its launch in 2018 it has earned a great following in the online community and this has earned it third place in 2020’s list of the most downloaded game apps.
Woodturning
With credit going once again to the Voodoo design team, Woodturning is an unusual entry coming in at fourth place. This game takes you back to basics and has you create things on a woodturning simulator. Whist that might not totally seem like the greatest form of entertainment, it is surprising how much this game actually has to offer.
Once you have finished off your design, you can dip further into the creative well and decorate your creation. What will your next masterpiece be?
Perfect Cream
Playgendary’s Perfect Cream nabs the last spot in our top five. This game is a nice relaxing way to enjoy a bit of down time, and the perfect antidote to a hard day. It’s also as sweet as the pies and pastries which it will have you decorating and topping with whipped cream of all kinds.
The Rising Popularity of Mobile Casino Apps
As well as online gaming apps, mobile casino apps have also seen a huge rise in downloads. Whilst this is perhaps not surprising, it should be remembered that not all apps are equal. This is why it is important for players to consult trusted mobile casino review sites, especially at a time when gambling operators have been pulling out all the stops to show up as an accessible and enjoyable way to spend some down time during these unusual times. Over the last few years the number of mobile casinos has skyrocketed perhaps in part due to the massive strides in game-quality that have taken place in recent times.
Indeed March of this year was widely considered to be the best month so far for mobile downloads. This is massively down to people looking for more choice and more entertainment during the time of the lockdowns and limitations.
There have of course also been many new entries and a few honourable mentions which include games like Brain Test from Unico Studio and Spiral Roll which is also from Voodoo who, with many of their games doing particularly well, seem to really have their finger on the pulse of gaming entertainment at the moment.
The games in our list are only a drop in the vast digital ocean but don’t take our word for it, go check them out for yourselves! With half the world on board at the moment you’ll be in good company and who knows you might even find your new favourite game and a way to make the most of otherwise lost moments.
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