The profitability of mobile game development stems from their accessibility, large and engaged audiences, effective business models, social networking, supporting app stores, and technological advances. These factors have led to mobile games establishing themselves as the most lucrative segment of the gaming industry, offering developers a compelling opportunity to create innovative and profitable gaming experiences.
Are Mobile Games Profitable For The Next 5 Years?
Mobile game development has become the most profitable sector of the gaming industry, and for good reason. The tremendous success and profitability of those games can be attributed to several key factors.
1. The ubiquity of mobile devices has played a pivotal role. Today, almost everyone owns a smartphone or tablet, and it’s hard to imagine our daily lives without them. The sheer number of potential players in the mobile market is overwhelming, providing developers with an enormous customer base to target.
2. Mobile games have tapped into a highly engaged and accessible audience. Unlike traditional gaming platforms, which often require specialized hardware or consoles, mobile games are easily accessible to anyone with a smartphone or tablet. This accessibility has democratized gaming and opened the market to a broader audience, including casual gamers, children, and older adults. As a result, the potential player base for mobile games is diverse and large, leading to higher engagement and better monetization opportunities.
3. The mobile game business model, particularly free-to-play with in-app purchases (IAPs), has proven to be highly profitable. By offering games for free, developers can attract a large player base and generate revenue through optional in-game purchases. This model takes advantage of the psychology of microtransactions, where players tend to spend small amounts of money frequently, resulting in significant profits over time. In addition, developers can constantly update and expand their games, offering new content and enticing players to make additional purchases.
4. The mobile platform also benefits from its networking and social nature. Mobile games often include social features such as leaderboards, multiplayer modes, and social media connections that allow players to compete and share with friends and other players. This social aspect fosters a sense of community and encourages players to engage with the game over a longer period of time, which in turn increases monetization opportunities.
5. In addition, strong app stores such as Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store support the mobile gaming ecosystem by providing developers with a streamlined distribution channel and wide reach. These platforms take care of the complexities of payment processing, app discovery, and user acquisition, allowing developers to focus on creating compelling game experiences.
6. Advances in mobile technology have greatly improved the capabilities and visual quality of mobile games. Modern smartphones have powerful processors, high-resolution displays, and advanced graphics capabilities that allow developers to create engaging and visually stunning gaming experiences that rival traditional gaming platforms. This technological advancement has helped make mobile games increasingly popular and profitable.
What game genres are in trend on the market?
As for genres, profitability may vary depending on market trends, player preferences, and other factors. However, several genres in the gaming industry have consistently demonstrated high profitability.
One of the most profitable genres is the “free-to-play with in-app purchases” (F2P + IAP) model. It includes various games from different genres, including casual, puzzle, strategy, and role-playing games. The F2P + IAP model allows developers to offer free-to-play games, attract a large player base, and generate revenue through optional in-app purchases. This flexible model has proven to be highly successful as it takes advantage of the psychology of microtransactions, encouraging players to make frequent small purchases and leading to significant profits over time.
Another profitable genre is the “battle royale” genre. Massive multiplayer competitions in which players compete to be the last person or team standing have made this genre popular thanks to games like “Fortnite” and “PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds” (PUBG). Battle Royale games generate revenue through various means, including in-game purchases for cosmetic items, Battle Passes, and seasonal content. The competitive nature of the genre and the social aspect of playing with friends or against other players have contributed to its profitability.
The massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) genre is also known for its profitability. MMORPGs such as “World of Warcraft” and “Final Fantasy XIV” create expansive virtual worlds where players can interact with thousands of other players, complete quests, and participate in the in-game economy. They typically require a subscription or offer a free-to-play model with optional subscriptions or in-game purchases. The combination of addictive gameplay, social interaction, and constant content updates has made MMORPGs a consistently profitable genre.
“Sports” games have also proven to be very profitable. Popular sports games such as “FIFA” and “NBA 2K” generate significant revenue through annual releases, in-game purchases, and competitive online modes. These games appeal to sports enthusiasts and offer realistic simulations of their favorite sports, often with licensed teams, players, and stadiums. The combination of a passionate fan base, online multiplayer, and virtual currency systems has made sports games a profitable genre.
It’s worth noting that the profitability of game genres can change over time as player preferences evolve and new genres emerge. Developers must stay on top of market trends, player demands, and technological advances to maximize profitability. Developers can capitalize on the profitability of different genres by offering engaging game experiences, implementing effective monetization strategies, and responding to player interests.
Top 10 Most Profitable Mobile Games
If you ask yourself how profitable are mobile games you should check several mobile games that have emerged as highly profitable within the gaming industry. While specific rankings may vary depending on time, region, and market trends, several notable games have consistently demonstrated exceptional profitability.
1. Let’s start from “Pokémon GO” developed by Niantic. This augmented reality mobile game took the world by storm upon its release in 2016. Combining the beloved Pokémon franchise with innovative location-based gameplay attracted a massive and dedicated player base. “Pokémon GO” generated significant revenue through in-app purchases of items, such as Poké Balls and Incense, and sponsored partnerships with businesses, events, and promotions. In 2022, Pokémon GO in-app purchase revenues surpassed 645.59 million U.S. dollars worldwide.
Pokémon Go has enjoyed tremendous success due to its unique combination of innovative gameplay, nostalgic appeal, social aspects, and mobile accessibility. Here are some key factors that have contributed to its success:
| Augmented Reality (AR) Gameplay | |
| The game where virtual elements are seamlessly integrated into the real world via the smartphone camera. | |
| Nostalgic appeal | |
| Pokémon Go taps into the nostalgia of millions who played Pokémon in the 1990s and early 2000s. | |
| Simple and accessible gameplay | |
| The game mechanics are relatively easy to understand and, therefore, accessible to many players, regardless of age or gaming experience. | |
| Social interaction | |
| Players often gathered at popular locations (PokéStops, Gyms, etc.) to catch or battle Pokémon, which fostered a strong sense of community and provided opportunities to socialize and make new friends. | |
| Frequent updates and events | |
| Niantic, the game’s developer, regularly releases updates, new Pokémon, and in-game events to keep the game fresh and exciting. |
| Global appeal | |
| Pokémon Go allows players from different countries and cultures to connect and play together. | |
| In-App Purchases | |
| While the game is free, Pokémon Go offers in-app purchases for various items and expansions. This freemium model allows players to enjoy the game with no upfront cost while expanding their experience through optional purchases. |
2. Another highly profitable mobile game is “Candy Crush Saga” developed by King. Known for its addictive and casual puzzle gameplay, “Candy Crush Saga” has been a consistent top earner since its launch in 2012. The game’s freemium model and cleverly designed level progression entices players to make in-app purchases for extra lives, boosters, and other in-game advantages. Its widespread appeal and simple yet addictive gameplay have contributed to its remarkable profitability. In-app purchases generated revenue is almost 607 million U.S. dollars in the United States in 2022.
Candy Crush Saga has achieved remarkable success due to addictive gameplay, effective game design, mobile accessibility, and clever monetization strategies:
| Addictive gameplay |
| Candy Crush Saga offers simple, easy-to-understand match-three puzzle mechanics that quickly become addictive. |
| Level design and progression |
| The game’s level design is carefully crafted to balance difficulty and achievability. Players encounter progressively harder levels that require strategic thinking and skill to overcome. |
| Mobile accessibility |
| Candy Crush Saga was explicitly designed for mobile devices, making it easily accessible to a vast audience. |
| Social integration |
| The game incorporates social elements, allowing players to connect with friends and share their progress on social media platforms. |
| Cross-platform availability |
| Candy Crush Saga is available on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and Facebook. |
| Free-to-play model with In-app purchases |
| The game follows a free-to-play model, allowing anyone to download and play without any upfront cost. In-app purchases for power-ups, extra lives, and other boosters provide a revenue stream for the developers while offering players the option to enhance their gaming experience. |
| Visual appeal and design |
| The colorful and visually appealing graphics. |
3. “Clash of Clans” by Supercell is yet another mobile game that has reaped immense profits. This strategic multiplayer game allows players to build and defend their owes its success to its engaging gameplay, frequent updates, and the option for players to purchase in-game resources, such as gems, to accelerate their progress. “Clash of Clans” has consistently ranked among the highest-grossing mobile games since its release in 2012. In 2022, in-app purchase revenues are still impressive at 496.39 million U.S. dollars.
Clash of Clans is enormously successful due to its strategic gameplay, compelling social elements, continuous updates, and effective monetization strategy:
| Strategic gameplay |
| Clash of Clans offers deep and engaging strategic gameplay. Players build and shape their villages, train troops, and raise armies to fight battles against other players or AI-controlled goblins. The game requires thoughtful planning, resource management, and tactical decisions, making it attractive to players who like strategic challenges. |
| Multiplayer and social interaction |
| The game’s multiplayer aspect greatly appeals to players. |
| Regular updates and new content |
| New troops, buildings, game modes, and events are added regularly, giving players something to look forward to and motivating them to stay engaged with the game. |
| Mobile Accessibility |
| Like Candy Crush Saga, Clash of Clans was developed specifically for mobile devices. The ability to play the game on the go and in short sessions accommodates the mobile player base and allows players to incorporate the game into their daily routine. |
| Visual appeal and artistic style |
| The game’s vibrant and charming graphic style adds to its appeal and makes it visually appealing to players of all ages. |
| Freemium model with in-app purchases |
| Clash of Clans follows a freemium model where the game is offered for free, while in-app purchases are available for resources, gems, and other premium items in the game. |
| Competitive and Esports scene |
| Clash of Clans is also successful in the competitive gaming and Esports scene. |
4. “Fortnite” by Epic Games, although originally known as a video game for console and PC, has significantly impacted the mobile gaming market. With its battle royale mode and cross-platform play, “Fortnite” attracted a massive player base and generated substantial revenue through in-game purchases of cosmetic items, battle passes, and seasonal content. The game’s cultural impact and the ability to seamlessly play across multiple devices contributed to its profitability.
Fortnite is a trendy online multiplayer game developed by Epic Games. Here are some amazing facts about it:
| Impressive revenue |
| Fortnite generated approximately $1.1 billion in mobile revenue before being banned from the app store. In 2021 alone, the game generated a staggering $5.8 billion for Epic Games, making it one of the highest-grossing games of the year. |
| Players age range |
| Most Fortnite players fall between 18 and 24. However, the game has a diverse player base that spans various age groups, attracting players of all ages. |
| Enormous user base |
| Currently, Fortnite boasts a massive player base, with over 400 million registered users. It makes it one of the world’s most popular online multiplayer games. |
| Avtive paying users |
| Out of the vast player base, approximately 83 million users pay for in-game purchases at least once a month. This demonstrates the game’s strong monetization model and the engagement of its dedicated player community. |
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5. “PUBG Mobile” – Developed by PUBG Corporation, this battle royale game quickly gained popularity on mobile devices. It offers intense multiplayer gameplay, allowing players to fight for survival in a shrinking battlefield. In-game purchases for cosmetic items and battle passes have contributed to its profitability. So in November 2022 global player spending on PUBG Mobile reached 124.79 million U.S. dollars.
PUBG Mobile has achieved remarkable success due to its Battle Royale gameplay, mobile optimization, global appeal, regular updates, and strong community engagement:
| Battle royale game |
| PUBG Mobile’s Battle Royale mode offers intense and addictive gameplay, pitting 100 players against each other on a shrinking map until only one player or team is left. |
| Mobile optimization |
| PUBG Mobile has been designed and optimized for mobile devices. |
| Global appeal |
| The game’s availability on iOS and Android platforms and localization allows players worldwide to enjoy PUBG Mobile. |
| Brand recognition |
| PUBG (PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds), the game’s original version (PC), had already gained significant popularity before the release of PUBG Mobile. |
| Regular updates and new content |
| The developers of PUBG Mobile regularly release updates, new maps, weapons, game modes, and events to keep the game fresh and exciting. |
| Competitive Esports scene |
| PUBG Mobile’s emergence on the Esports scene has further increased the game’s popularity. |
| Social interaction and team play |
| PUBG Mobile allows players to collaborate with friends and communicate via voice chat during matches. |
| Free-to-play model with in-app purchases |
| Like many successful mobile games, PUBG Mobile follows a free-to-play model that allows players to download and play the game without any upfront costs. In-app purchases for cosmetics and premium items provide a revenue stream enabling players to customize their characters and express their individuality. |
| Cross-Platform Play |
| PUBG Mobile supports cross-platform play, allowing players on mobile devices to join and compete against other platforms, such as PC and consoles. |
6. “Garena Free Fire” – Developed by Garena, this battle royale game has gained immense popularity, particularly in Southeast Asia and Latin America. Its fast-paced gameplay and regular updates have attracted a dedicated player base, resulting in substantial revenue from in-game purchases. In Q1 2022, Garena Free Fire was the most downloaded game, generating 71.2 million downloads across the App Store and Google Play.
Garena Free Fire has succeeded significantly due to its unique features:
| Short and intense gameplay |
| Garena Free Fire offers short and action-packed gameplay sessions, with matches lasting around 10 minutes. This format appeals to mobile gamers who prefer quick gaming experiences that can be easily fit into their busy schedules. |
| Mobile optimization |
| The game is well-optimized for mobile devices, ensuring smooth performance and intuitive controls. |
| Global appeal and localization |
| The game’s availability in multiple languages and its focus on localizing content for specific regions have helped it resonate with players from diverse cultural backgrounds. |
| Regular updates |
| Garena Free Fire frequently receives updates with new features, game modes, characters, weapons, and cosmetic items. |
| Collaborations |
| The game’s collaborations with popular franchises and celebrities have attracted even more players. |
| Competitive esports scene |
| Garena Free Fire has invested in developing its esports ecosystem, hosting tournaments, and providing opportunities for players to compete at various levels. |
| Social interaction |
| Teaming up with friends and communicating through voice chat enhance the multiplayer experience. |
| Free-to-play model with In-app purchases |
| Like other successful mobile games, Garena Free Fire follows a free-to-play model, allowing players to download and play the game without any initial cost. In-app purchases for cosmetic items and in-game currency provide a revenue stream. |
7. “Roblox” – Developed by Roblox Corporation, this platform allows users to create and play various user-generated games. With millions of user-created experiences, Roblox has attracted a massive player base and generates revenue through in-app purchases of virtual items, accessories, and game passes. Roblox revenue for the quarter ending March 31, 2023 was $0.655B, a 22.01% increase year-over-year.
Roblox has achieved tremendous success because of its unique platform for user-generated content, its inclusivity, its creative freedom, and its social aspects:
| User-generated content |
| One of the main reasons for Roblox’s success is its user-generated content platform. It allows players to create games, experiences and virtual worlds using Roblox’s development tools. This feature fosters an extensive and ever-growing content library that caters to different interests and play styles. |
| Creative freedom |
| Roblox gives players the ability to let their creativity and imagination run wild. As game developers, they can design and build their games, characters, and environments. |
| Inclusion and accessibility |
| Roblox is accessible to players of all ages and does not require high-end hardware. |
| Social interaction |
| Roblox fosters a strong sense of community through its social features. |
| Variety of games and experiences |
| With millions of user-created games and experiences, Roblox offers a wide range of choices for different interests and preferences. Whether players like role-playing games, simulations, adventures, or creative sandbox experiences, Roblox has something for everyone. |
| Developer Support |
| Roblox Corporation actively supports its developer community, offering resources, tutorials, and developer forums. |
| Live events and updates |
| Roblox hosts live events, seasonal updates, and special in-game activities to keep the experience fresh and exciting for players. |
| Monetization and virtual economy |
| Roblox has a virtual economy that allows developers to monetize their creations through in-game purchases, such as virtual items, skins, and other cosmetic upgrades. This revenue-sharing model incentivizes developers to create high-quality content. |
| Parental controls and security features: |
| Roblox has implemented robust parental controls and safety features to create a safe environment for younger players. |
8. “Summoners War” – Developed by Com2uS, this turn-based role-playing game (RPG) has amassed a dedicated following. Its engaging gameplay, deep customization, and collectible monsters have driven revenue through in-app purchases for in-game currency and resources. Summoners War has performed successfully, with 150,000,000 downloads worldwide and $1.35 billion in earnings.
Summoners War has achieved remarkable success due to several key factors:
| Rich gameplay mechanics |
| Summoners War offers a diverse and intricate gameplay experience. Players can collect and summon various monsters, each with unique skills and attributes. |
| Strategic combat |
| The turn-based combat system in Summoners War requires players to think strategically and plan their moves carefully. |
| Monster evolution and customization |
| The game allows players to evolve and upgrade their monsters, increasing their power and unlocking new abilities. |
| Regular updates |
| Com2uS, the developer of Summoners War, consistently provides updates with new monsters, game modes, events, and quality-of-life improvements. |
| Global community engagement |
| Summoners War has built a solid, active international community. |
| Competitive esports scene |
| Summoners War’s foray into the esports scene has contributed to its success. The game hosts various tournaments and events where skilled players can showcase their strategies and compete for rewards. |
| In-App Purchases |
| Like many successful mobile games, Summoners War follows a free-to-play model, allowing players to download and play without any upfront cost. In-app purchases for in-game currency and packages provide a revenue stream for the developer. |
| The high production value and art design |
| Summoners War boasts high-quality graphics, appealing art design, and visually stunning monster animations. |
| Global Availability |
| Summoners War is available in multiple languages and accessible to players worldwide. |
9. “Homescapes” – Developed by Playrix, this match-3 puzzle game combines puzzle-solving and home renovation gameplay. It has garnered a significant player base and generates revenue through in-app purchases to progress in the game and unlock new decorations for virtual homes. Homescapes has earned more than $2.5 billion in revenue by 2022.
Homescapes has achieved considerable success due to its compelling combination of match-3 puzzle gameplay, narrative-driven story, engaging characters, and unique blend of home renovation simulation:
| Match-3 puzzle mechanic |
| Homescapes offers addictive and satisfying match-3 puzzle gameplay, where players must swap and match tiles to complete levels. |
| Storytelling and narrative |
| The game features a narrative-driven story, following the main character Austin as he returns home to renovate his childhood mansion. |
| Home renovation simulation |
| Homescapes uniquely integrates the match-3 puzzles with a home renovation simulation. Players earn stars by completing puzzle levels, which are then used to renovate and decorate different rooms in the mansion. This combination of gameplay styles offers a sense of achievement and personalization as players see the mansion transform over time. |
| Engaging characters |
| The game features a cast of charming and relatable characters, including Austin and his family members, which players can interact with during the renovation process. These characters create an emotional bond with players and keep them invested in the storyline. |
| Regular updates and events |
| The developers consistently release updates with new levels, home renovation items, and in-game events. |
| Mobile accessibility |
| Homescapes’ mobile-friendly design makes it accessible to many players. |
| Free-to-play model with In-app purchases |
| The game follows a free-to-play model, allowing players to download and play without any upfront cost. In-app purchases for power-ups, extra lives, and in-game currency provide a revenue stream while offering players the option to enhance their progress. |
| Art style |
| Homescapes boasts high-quality graphics, visually appealing art design, and delightful animations. |
| Social integration |
| The game includes social elements, allowing players to connect with friends and compete on leaderboards. The social interaction creates a sense of competition and community, encouraging players to stay engaged. |
10. “Honor of Kings” (Arena of Valor) – Developed by Tencent Games, this multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game has been a massive success in the Chinese market. With millions of active players, it generates revenue through in-app purchases for characters, skins, and other in-game items. During the first four months of 2023, the MOBA game generated over 489 billion U.S. dollars in global in-app revenues. It has recorded over 290 million downloads worldwide since its launch in late 2015. So, why is this mobile game so popular?
| The concept and gameplay |
| It combines elements of strategy, teamwork, and skill, making it an enthralling experience for players. The gameplay involves intense 5v5 battles where teams compete to destroy each other’s bases, utilizing unique heroes with distinct abilities. |
| Extensive character roster |
| The game boasts an extensive roster of characters, each with its backstory and abilities. |
| Competitive and social elements: |
| The competitive nature of “Honor of Kings” adds to its allure. Players strive to climb the ranks and prove their skills in intense battles. |
| In-game purchases and monetization |
| While “Honor of Kings” offers in-game purchases, it balances providing attractive content and maintaining fair monetization practices. |
| Cultural relevance and localization: |
| To resonate with players worldwide, “Honor of Kings” undergoes thoughtful localization and adaptation to suit different cultural sensibilities. |
| Player feedback |
| The developers of “Honor of Kings” actively seek and incorporate player feedback into their updates and improvements. |
| Competitive eSports scene |
| “Honor of Kings” has made significant strides in the eSports scene, attracting professional players and tournaments. |
Kevuru Games Expertise In Mobile Game Development
The world of gaming has changed significantly with the advent of mobile devices. So why are mobile games so profitable? The widespread adoption of mobile games has created a huge market for developers with the expertise to create engaging and addictive games.
Mobile games have come a long way. Today, millions of games are available in various app stores, catering to a wide range of preferences and interests. The convenience of smartphone games and the availability of high-quality graphics and intuitive gameplay have made mobile gaming a dominant force in the industry.
Kevuru Games has over 11 years of experience in the gaming market and a team of over 400 highly skilled professionals.
We specialize in developing engaging mobile games that captivate gamers worldwide. Our expertise spans multiple genres, including MMOG, adventure, strategy, puzzles, educational games, board games, and role-playing games. Whether it’s a casual game for the masses or a complex multiplayer experience, Kevuru Games has the knowledge and skills to bring your ideas to life.
We offer a full range of mobile game development services, including:
- Fully executed development;
- Concept art and design;
- Quality assurance and testing;
- Game monetization;
- Localization of the game;
- Post-release support.
Summary
The mobile gaming industry has experienced a remarkable evolution, with smartphones becoming the dominant platform for gaming. Kevuru Games specializes in developing engaging mobile games across various genres, making us a reliable partner for transforming ideas into successful gaming experiences. With our range of services, Kevuru Games ensures that every aspect of the game development process is expertly handled. As the industry continues to grow, platforms like Roblox, games like Summoners War and Homescapes, and Honor of Kings showcase the immense potential and profitability of the mobile gaming market.
