Nintendo and Sony will be less than pleased with the latest portable gaming figures, as they are reporting that mobile gaming, particularly Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android devices, now makes up 58 percent of mobile gaming revenue in the US for 2011.
This compares to 2009 when Nintendo held 70 percent of the portable gaming market and Sony’s PSP around 11 percent. Back then, Android and iOS made up just 19 percent of the market.
The most striking trend is that iOS and Android games have tripled their market share from roughly 20% in 2009 to nearly 60% in just two years. Simultaneously, Nintendo, the once dominant player, has been crushed down to owning about one-third of the market in 2011, from having controlled more than two-thirds in 2009. Combined, iOS and Android game revenue delivered $500 million, $800 million, and $1.9 billion over 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively.
The Rise of Mobile Gaming
The rapid rise of mobile gaming can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the widespread adoption of smartphones has made gaming more accessible to a broader audience. Unlike dedicated gaming consoles, which require a significant investment, smartphones are multi-functional devices that most people already own. This has lowered the barrier to entry for casual gamers who might not have considered purchasing a dedicated gaming device.
Additionally, the app stores on iOS and Android platforms have made it incredibly easy for developers to distribute their games. This has led to a surge in the number of available games, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From simple puzzle games to complex strategy games, there is something for everyone on these platforms.
Moreover, the freemium model, where games are free to download but offer in-app purchases, has proven to be highly lucrative. This model allows players to try out games without any initial cost, increasing the likelihood of them spending money on in-game items or upgrades later on.
Nintendo and Sony’s Response
Whilst Sony has embraced Google’s Android OS and started to bring their games to it, Nintendo has refused to bring any of their titles to either Android or Apple’s iOS. Sony’s strategy has included the launch of the PlayStation Mobile platform, which allows developers to create games that can be played on both PlayStation devices and Android smartphones. This move has helped Sony maintain a presence in the mobile gaming market, even as their share of the dedicated portable gaming market has declined.
On the other hand, Nintendo has remained steadfast in its decision to keep its games exclusive to its own hardware. This strategy has its merits, as it allows Nintendo to maintain control over the gaming experience and ensure a high level of quality. However, it also means that Nintendo is missing out on a significant portion of the mobile gaming market.
Despite this, Nintendo has seen success with its hybrid console, the Nintendo Switch, which combines the portability of a handheld device with the power of a home console. The Switch has been well-received by both critics and consumers, and its unique design has helped it carve out a niche in the competitive gaming market.
Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how the landscape of portable gaming continues to evolve. With the ongoing advancements in smartphone technology and the increasing popularity of mobile gaming, traditional gaming companies like Nintendo and Sony will need to adapt to stay relevant.
Source Mac Rumors
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