The Console War: Where do Smartphones Stand?

Over the past few years, the popularity of mobile gaming has drastically increased. Interestingly, the emergence of mobiles presents something of a dilemma to modern-day gamers. In the past, video game device choice was somewhat limited to either consoles or PCs. Now, however, smartphones offer a genuine alternative within the entertainment stream. So, let’s take a look at the outlook of the console war following the rise of mobiles. 

The Importance of Casual Gaming

For those wanting to enjoy the latest games in high quality, then either the PlayStation 5 or the Xbox Series X are perhaps the route to take. Each device features forward-thinking technology that seeks to drive the gaming industry into a new era. That said, in recent times, numerous console games have been optimized onto the mobile market, including Call of Duty, Fortnite, and PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds. Although not every title is available on Android or iOS phones, contemporary developments illustrate a desire to bring more console-quality games to smartphones. 

Interestingly, the mobile market thrives in comparison to its competitors regarding casual gaming. According to a report at Wired.com, it’s forecast that the newly-released next-generation consoles will endure a sales decline of 32 percent. One of the reasons for this relates to the popularity of pick-up-and-play titles. Although some of the most-played mobile games are free, the difference between mobile downloads and console purchases are stark. Throughout the 2010s, Subway Surfers – the most downloaded smartphone game of the decade – registered 1.5 billion downloads. Grand Theft Auto V, on the other hand, was officially the best-selling video game over the same period, and that recorded 130 million sales, as of Hypebeast.com’s article in May 2020. 

Should Smartphones Take the Place of Consoles and PCs?

When considering whether mobiles will eventually enjoy long-term dominance within the gaming industry, it’s worth taking into account the platform’s versatility, mobile users with a 100gb sim have access to fast internet speeds wherever they go. Along with open-world shooters and casual creations, smartphones also present the opportunity for modern-day gamers to immerse themselves in thriving industries, such as online casinos. At Bonus.net.nz, prospective gamers can find a whole host of bonus-offering platforms, many of which have optimized their websites in response to the growth of mobile gaming. For example, at LeoVegas, which is regarded as the best smartphone casinos of 2020, users can utilize their no-deposit spins on Book of Dead. 

Given the diversity of mobile platforms, it’s not beyond the realms of possibility that they will one day surpass the popularity of consoles. In an era where next-gen sales are forecast to decline, it opens the door for smartphones to assert their dominance. That said, the remote transition is already happening. As per figures from Mobile Marketer, mobile games accounted for 60 percent of the global gaming market’s revenue in 2019. Although not guaranteed, if the PS5 and Series X do fail to live up to the hype, then the share of mobile sales could increase over the coming years. 

In a Position of Promise

Concerning smartphones and their place within the ongoing platform war, there can be no doubt that they’re well placed to capitalize on console shortcomings. Recently, gamer habits have changed, and mobiles have reaped the rewards of altering trends. As such, smartphones are now in a position of promise ahead of the next decade. 

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