Week in Mobile Games E26 - The Big Stories and Trends from Gamescom 2024
Aug 25, 2024
auto_awesome
Craig Chapple, Daniel Griffiths, and Paige Cook from PocketGamer.biz delve into the standout trends from Gamescom 2024. They discuss Appleโs new policies in response to regulatory pressure and how this impacts the mobile gaming landscape. The excitement surrounding the exclusive reveal of Monument Valley 3 for Netflix is palpable. Thereโs also a spotlight on the rise of Eastern game developers and the evolving revenue trends, particularly the backlash against the 30% revenue share model. Insights into new game features like rewarded ads in Monopoly Go add to the conversation.
Gamescom 2024 showcased a remarkable 45% increase in registered attendees, highlighting a growing interest and energy in mobile gaming.
The podcast discussed the shift in industry power dynamics, with Asian gaming companies like Tencent and Krafton gaining significant influence and investment.
A trend towards utilizing web shops for monetization in mobile games emerged, with some titles generating up to 50% of their revenue through this channel.
Deep dives
Experiences at Gamescom
Attendees at Gamescom shared their mixed experiences, highlighting the large scale of the event and the challenges of navigating its layout. Many noted the increase in registered attendees, which rose by 45% from the previous year, showcasing growth in interest in mobile gaming. Participants enjoyed various networking opportunities but also faced logistical issues like getting lost due to confusing signage. The atmosphere was energized with numerous parties and events, including awards ceremonies celebrating mobile game achievements.
Current Challenges in the Gaming Industry
The podcast addressed the significant challenges currently facing the gaming industry, including layoffs and decreased optimism compared to previous years. Key industry figures discussed their experiences and how some companies are adapting to survive, highlighting a sense of caution about future growth. Conversations revealed a consensus around the idea that the rapid growth seen in 2018 and 2019 may not return, yet there remains a belief in innovation helping the sector recover. Overall, the sentiment reflects a mixture of realism and hopeful optimism about the industry's potential for revival.
Influence of Asian Companies on the Gaming Landscape
The growing influence of Asian gaming companies was emphasized as attendees noted a shift in power dynamics within the industry. Major meetings with companies like Tencent and Krafton were prevalent, indicating a strong presence and investment from Asian markets in mobile gaming. The Mobile Games Awards also reflected this trend, with many winners being affiliated with Asian firms and showcasing their expanding global reach. This change signifies a notable evolution in the development and publishing landscape, where Asian companies now dominate many key sectors.
The Shift Towards Web Shops in Revenue Generation
The podcast highlighted the increasing importance of web shops as a revenue stream for mobile games, with some titles generating substantial profits from their online sales. For example, one game reportedly earned 50% of its revenue through this channel, showcasing its viability compared to traditional in-game purchases. This trend suggests a shift in how developers are monetizing their games, reflecting a broader industry movement towards alternative sales methods. As developers explore these options, there is potential for significant changes in user acquisition strategies and monetization approaches.
The Future of Mobile Game Preservation
An innovative approach to game preservation was discussed, focusing on how some titles are transitioning from live-service models to paid-offline versions. This was exemplified by the impending closure of Animal Crossing Pocket Camp, which will allow players to continue enjoying the game for a fee after the official service ends. This model received mixed reactions, with some players appreciating the chance to keep their progress while others criticized the paywall. The conversation raised questions about how this strategy could be adopted by other games, providing a framework for maintaining engagement and user investment even after a game's active support ceases.
Craig Chapple, Daniel Griffiths, and Paige Cook from the PocketGamer.biz team discuss the latest mobile games industry news from the past week.
We provide a breakdown of the key stories and trends from Devcom and Gamescom 2024. Meanwhile, we discuss Apple's latest changes following regulatory pressure, peek into the data that shows Squad Busters is on the up, and cover the big reveal of Monument Valley 3, coming exclusively to Netflix.
** Let's Connect **
๐๐ป Twitter - https://twitter.com/pgbiz
๐๐ป LinkedIn Group - https://www.linkedin.com/company/pocketgamer-biz/
๐๐ป PocketGamer.biz Mobile Games Industry Trends Survey - https://www.pocketgamer.biz/what-are-the-hottest-mobile-gaming-trends-right-now-let-us-know-in-our-2024-mobile-games-industry-survey/
**Articles**
๐๐ป 5 takeaways from Devcom and Gamescom 2024: Eastern influence, web shops rising, and Monument Valley returns - https://www.pocketgamer.biz/5-things-we-learned-from-devcom-and-gamescom-2024-1812461/
๐๐ป Monopoly GO! A game that was(nโt) created for ads - https://www.pocketgamer.biz/monopoly-go-a-game-that-wasnt-created-for-ads/
๐๐ป Game analysis: Squad Busters update makes radical changes on a quest for lasting success - https://www.pocketgamer.biz/game-analysis-squad-busters-update-makes-radical-changes-on-a-quest-for-lasting-success/
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
