Retrospective: the Evolution of Mobile Games

This article presents an overview of the development of mobile games from their inception to the present day. It explores the key stages of evolution, including the development of graphics, virtual and augmented reality, multiplayer modes, and artificial intelligence. The author examines how technological innovations and creative approaches by developers have made mobile games more attractive, accessible, and engaging, making them a key element of the modern gaming industry.

Over the past decades, mobile games have undergone tremendous changes, transforming from simple, uncomplicated entertainment to a multi-billion dollar industry. Today, the mobile gaming market has surpassed all other device games. As of 2017, it has surpassed console and PC gaming revenues and is only projected to grow.

Let's take a closer look at the main stages of mobile game formation.

First steps (early 2000s): Simplicity and accessibility

In the early 2000s, when cell phones were just starting to become popular, their screens were black and white and had limited features. That's when the first simple but interesting games, 'Snake' and 'Tetris' appeared. They became symbols of that era and the first steps in the world of mobile entertainment. In 'Snake,' the player controls a snake, which 'collects' food and increases its length. The graphics were limited to a monochrome palette, but the gameplay seemed so addictive that many players spent hours engrossed in this simple but fun game. Only 'Tetris,' which introduced the concept of logic puzzles to mobile devices, could provide an alternative. Players had to manipulate falling tetrominoes (geometric shapes) to create horizontal lines. The game required strategic thinking and was appreciated by players for its simplicity and complexity at the same time. It was these games that laid the foundation for countless variations and developments in the future. With their introduction, the history of mobile gaming began.

The era of Java games (mid-2000s)

Since the mid-2000s, mobile gaming has undergone significant changes with the introduction of Java technology. This allowed devices to display more complex and colorful images, exposing gamers to detailed graphical worlds that previously seemed unattainable on the small screens of mobile devices. The advent of Java games also brought innovations in-game mechanics and storylines, from thrilling races to addictive puzzles. Developers were able to realize their creative ideas by creating exciting scenarios and unique game worlds. This is how mobile devices became true gaming platforms, and it was this period that started the formation of a community of gamers who were united by their passion for mobile gaming.

The App Store (2008)

The year 2008 was marked by the launch of Apple's App Store, an event that turned the perception of mobile gaming upside down. It was a true revolution, giving developers access to a huge audience and powerful tools. Games like 'Angry Birds' and 'Cut the Rope' became the hallmarks of that era. They not only won the hearts of millions of players around the world but also raised the bar on quality and expectations. The App Store became a platform where talented developers could bring their ideas to life, and players could discover unique worlds created specifically for mobile devices. These key events opened new horizons and raised the quality standards players encounter in today's mobile entertainment.

The era of smartphones and free-to-play (2010s)

The early 2010s were marked by the advent of smartphones and the launch of app stores on Android and iOS platforms. This period had a huge impact on the entertainment industry, making mobile gaming accessible and appealing to millions of players worldwide. As smartphones evolved, their power and graphics capabilities began to increase significantly. This has allowed developers to create games with stunning graphics, complex gameplay, and deep storylines, which were previously characteristic of console and PC games. The advent of app stores such as Google Play and the App Store provided user interfaces that made it easier to find and install games, making the process convenient and fast.

However, the key to this period was the free-to-play model. Games offering free downloads and in-game purchases quickly became an industry standard. This format allowed for significant audience expansion, as users only invested money in a game if they really enjoyed it and wanted to improve their experience.

AR and VR development (mid-2010s-present)

Since the mid-2010s, mobile gaming has gone beyond mere entertainment and has evolved into a unique way for players to immerse themselves in virtual and augmented realities. This has opened up a world of amazing possibilities. AR technology allows users to interact with virtual objects and characters in a real environment. An example of this was the spectacular success of the game 'Pokemon Go,' where players took to the streets of their cities to catch virtual pokemons visible through a camera and GPS technology. This game became a phenomenon, uniting millions of players worldwide in search of virtual creatures in real environments.

On the other hand, VR technology allows players to immerse themselves in virtual worlds. With the advent of affordable VR helmets, mobile games have begun to bring users into three-dimensional scenarios, creating a sense of total immersion. Virtual reality games range from adventures to simulations, providing players with a variety of emotions and experiences.

**The future of mobile gaming

The main trend in mobile gaming these days is the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) into gameplay. AI has the ability to analyze data about players, from their play style to their gameplay preferences. By collecting and processing this information, the algorithm builds unique profiles for each player, allowing for the creation of personalized scenarios and tasks that suit their skill level and interests. Artificial intelligence also makes games more adaptive to each player's play style in real-time. This means that the experience of the game adapts to each player, offering more challenges for experienced players and support for newcomers. This dynamic adaptation gives the impression that the game is designed specifically for each user.

With the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) into games, the world of game characters becomes more alive and intelligent. Characters controlled by AI begin to adapt their actions to the players, creating amazing situations. Gameplay becomes more dynamic and varied, and AI creates complex scenarios that require skill and strategic thinking. These changes make mobile games more interesting, expanding the possibilities in the world of gaming.

Overall, the future of mobile gaming, with the introduction of artificial intelligence, promises unique, personalized, and intelligent game worlds. This trend opens up new horizons and possibilities, making mobile gaming not just entertainment but a true art of interactivity.