The gaming industry continues to go from strength to strength but no area more so than that of mobile gaming. The ease at which people can browse, download a game a vast variety of games has never been more convenient.
It is astounding just how much hype can be created around a new mobile game release. New games are released every single day, and there really is something for every kind of player. You can get lost in an entirely different world, rule your own kingdom, take advantage of a free spin on your favourite online casino or exercise your brain with daily puzzles.
However, it takes a really special game to capture the imagination of the player and enthral them to return to play day after day, building a buzz that creates a large community of loyal fans.
Here is a look at the five most popular mobile games that have managed to do it so successfully.
- Pokémon Go
In top position is Pokémon Go. Developed by Niantic and first released in 2016, it has seen several updates over the years which have continued to attract new players and maintain interest over a long period of time.
It is a location-based game which uses a mobile GPS to detect Pokémon creatures nearby and the player must try to capture them. The player takes on the role of trainer and participates in battles.
It uses augmented reality technology which provides a unique gaming experience blending familiar surroundings of the player with adventure of the game.
The game has a phenomenal number of downloads, over 632 million as of 2021.
- Subway Surfers
A joint creation between Kiloo and SYBO Games, Subway Surfers was released in 2012. It is an endless runner type game.
The player acts as a young graffiti artistic who gets caught spraying a train carriage. A chase ensues between the player and an inspector. The aim of the aim is to escape the inspector by running along the railway tracks. As well as avoiding to get caught the player must dodge many obstacles and oncoming trains along the way.
- Garena Free Fire
Developed by 111dots Studio and released in 2017, this battle royal game is an exciting mix of action and adventure.
As the game opens the player is in an aircraft, the player has the ability to choose where to land and so begins the search for weapons, medical supplies and other items to aid survival. When another player is encountered, they must be eliminated. To successfully complete a round the player must use strategy to be the last one standing.
In 2021, the game has over 50 million daily players around the world.
- Despicable Me: Minion Rush
Following the success of the hugely popular movie of the same name, Despicable Me: Minion Rush was released in 2013 by Gameloft.
The player acts as a minion with the aim of completing various tasks, protecting Vector and defeating the villain.
Given that the franchise already had an established following before the mobile games release, it is no wonder that there were 0ver 100 million downloads within the first three months. The triumph continues proving the game is great entertainment. In 2021, there were over 1 billion downloads worldwide.
- Jetpack Joyride
This is another endless runner game. It was created by Halfbrick Studios and released in 2011.
Jetpack Joyride has an intriguing opening plot to keep players entertained. The main character is Barry, he is a down on his luck salesman on the verge of bankruptcy. One day he discovers a laboratory and finds an experimental jetpack. He steals it and so begins the game. As Barry, the player must travel on an adventure, collecting coins and avoiding dangerous missiles and lasers, which would cause Barry to lose a life.
It has won multiple awards for best game in the years since its release.
