Building a Mobile Game App vs a Game in a Web Application

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Are you trying to become a game developer? You find yourself at a complex crossroads, faced with a pivotal decision that can shape the destiny of your creations in the world of digital entertainment. Should you build a mobile game app or should you target web application? Was it the ultimate digital adventure?

There is no denying that each has a unique set of advantages which can cater to diverse audiences and preferences. From the perspective of game developers, the objective of building and publishing on a specific platform is multiple:

Can you reach out to your target audience?
Do you have the dev skills in-house to tackle all of the challenges of your chosen platform?
Are you trying to monetize your game?
What level of engagement and interaction do you want?
Is there a target age group?
Etc.

With these questions in mind, you may find that you are already leaning towards one platform rather than another. Truth be told, mobile games are popular because everybody uses a mobile these days. But not every mobile user invests in the latest models, which means that some older operating systems may not be supported by modern apps anymore. So, which one should you pick?

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Benefits of Mobile Game Apps

Accessibility and portability

One of the standout advantages of mobile game apps is the unparalleled accessibility they offer. With smartphones becoming an integral part of our daily lives, users tend to carry their devices everywhere, which provides an opportunity for developers to tap into a vast and diverse audience.

Mobile games allow players to enjoy immersive experiences on the go, whether they are commuting, waiting in line, or even relaxing at home. The portability factor enhances the overall reach and engagement potential for developers, which is why mobile game apps are often a top choice.

Enhanced user experiences with device features

Mobile devices come equipped with many features, including touchscreens and more. As a game developer, you can leverage some of these built-in functionalities to create interactive and engaging experiences. Touch controls can provide an intuitive way for players to interact with the game. You can also use motion sensors to enable innovative gameplay mechanics.

Besides, elements such as augmented reality and virtual reality can further broaden the scope of mobile gaming and deliver a more captivating and immersive user experience compared to traditional web-based games.

Monetization opportunities through app stores

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App stores and in-game purchases can provide a streamlined avenue for developers to monetize their mobile game apps. Whether you opt for a one-time purchase, in-app purchases, or ad revenue, the app store model simplifies the financial aspect of game distribution. The integrated payment systems and establishing billing mechanisms in app stores are not only convenient, but they also ensure game developers can benefit from a smoother monetization process.

Additionally, app stores can also feature promotional opportunities and recommendations, which can help boost your game visibility.

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Benefits of Web Applications

Cross-platform compatibility

Web applications shine when it comes to cross-platform compatibility. Unlike mobile game apps that are confined to specific operating systems, web-based games, such as fruit merge, are accessible through web browsers on various devices, including computers, laptops and tablets. This versatility ensures that, as a developer, you can still reach a broad audience without needing to introduce platform-specific adaptations. This enables you to create a consistent gaming experience across different devices without sacrificing user satisfaction and engagement.

Seamless updates and instant accessibility

One complaint that mobile users have is how frequently gaming apps need to run updates. This can affect the flow of the game and even their enjoyment in the long term. Web applications, on the other hand, have real-time updates and do not require users to download and install patches manually. In other words, there is no disruption to the game enjoyment for players and they can constantly access the latest features and improvements.

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There’s another interesting aspect when it comes to accessing the game. Playing a mobile game app will require some installation time, whether when you first log in to the game or each time you need to install an update. On the other hand, if you are developing for the web, your players will instantly have access to the game the moment they reach the relevant URL and sign in.

Lower barriers to entry for developers

Ultimately, developing and deploying web-based games tends to have lower entry barriers compared to the complex app store approval and development processes. The open nature of the web enables developers to publish and update their games without stringent reviews, which creates a quick time-to-market process. This can be advantageous for inside developers and smaller studios.

In conclusion, the choice depends on your specific goals, target audience, and characteristics of the game. There is no right or wrong answer here as long as you understand what is achievable with each option.