A mobile game is basically a video game played on a mobile phone, smartphone, PDA or hand held computer. Mobile games target general users who want to play anywhere, anytime and for short spells when they have a few minutes spare, for example: waiting for a bus, during a coffee break or waiting to receive an email. A good mobile phone should provide entertainment value and allow users to smoothly switch between game and work modes. Mobile game users do not want to spend a lot of time studying an operation manual on how a game should be played, so games have to be playable the moment it is downloaded.
To download, means to receive data from a remote system, such as: a webserver or a FTP server and it is a straightforward process. Content is usually downloaded ‘over the air’ (OTA) to your mobile phone. This means you are using airtime, and according to your mobile phone subscription, you may be charged. It is advisable to check with your mobile phone company before downloading anything, to avoid getting any unexpected charges.
Mobile games are big business and by 2009, analysts predict over 220 million people will be playing mobile games. Major investment has, and still is, being pumped into the mobile game business to improve the usability and reliability of devices and networks.
The most successful mobile games provide entertainment value to a broad range of players. No longer are games just targeted for youngsters, but men and women of all ages. Research has shown women prefer puzzles and non-violent mobile games that have soft colours and upbeat themes. Young men appear to be attracted to Java mobile games that involve an element of danger, are action-packed, and move at a fast pace. According to some latest reports, puzzle, retro arcade, and casino are the three most popular categories for mobile games.
Recent advancement in mobile games include, Multiplayer games and games with 3D graphics. Even poker can be played, using play money or real money. Some mobile games can only be played on certain mobile phones. It can be hard to determine what mobile game is suitable for a particular type of handset, but there are user-friendly websites that can help. They guide you to find out what make and model of phone you have, have a FAQ page and, if there is a problem with a download you’re not on your own because they are easy to contact. They make the choice of mobile games easy as the selection is broken down into categories, such as: new games, top rated, action, card, sports and trivia.
Payment for mobile games can be bought using a subscription option or purchase option. Generally, subscription means purchasing the game on a recurring month-to-month basis, and purchase option means a one-time payment for unlimited use. The number of games you can have on your phone will be dependent on the storage capacity you have for your phone, the file size of the games, and how many other applications you have on your phone.
Phone calls can be received while you are playing a mobile game – the game will automatically be paused while you take the call, and resume once your call is finished. If you are downloading a game and a call comes through, some phones will send the caller to voicemail. If you want to make a call while playing a game, some phones allow you to suspend the game, make the call, and then resume the game afterwards; or you’ll have to quit the game to make the call, although many games will automatically save your progress when you quit.
All mobile games are designed for enjoyment. Some are designed to be fun, some will delight, and others will entertain. Whatever mobile game you desire, there are plenty for you to choose from, and in today’s exciting market, you will never be bored again!
