What To Consider if You’re New To Mobile Gaming 📱

You’ve finally taken the plunge into mobile gaming. Perhaps you’ve just downloaded your first game, or maybe you’re just now realising that there’s a whole universe waiting for you to explore. But where do you start? 

Gaming on your phone can be a little overwhelming at first, so here's a guide to ease you in and help you make the most of your new hobby.

Choose Your Games

There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to mobile games, and it can be tricky to figure out where to dive in. Think about the type of experience you’re after. Do you want something quick and easy, like a puzzle game, or are you ready for something with more depth? Strategy or role-playing titles offer immersive worlds, while online slots offer a more casual approach with simple tap-to-play mechanics.

Start by browsing the top charts and reading reviews to get a feel for what’s popular, but don’t be afraid to explore niche genres, too. Many options are free-to-play, with in-app purchases that let you pay for extra features like items or boosts. Stick to your budget and choose what feels right for you.

Understand The Controls

A lot of mobile games rely on touch controls, and that might take a little getting used to. There’s no controller, no mouse, no keyboard – just you and the screen. In games that require precision or quick responses, you’ll need to get comfortable with swiping and tapping. Sometimes, you’ll even have to hold down certain areas of the screen.

If you’re new to this, start simple. Find a game with easy-to-understand controls, like an endless runner or basic puzzle game, before trying something more complex. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to control things with ease and move on to more challenging games that demand better coordination and reflexes.

Manage in-app Purchases

In-app purchases are everywhere in mobile games, offering the chance to buy virtual currency or power-ups. You might think you're simply ‘unlocking’ a new level or gaining an edge, but it’s always best to spend within your means.

Be mindful of what you’re buying. Make sure you understand exactly what you're getting for your money. And remember, spending doesn’t always guarantee progress or enjoyment. Many games offer cosmetic items – like skins or themes – that don’t affect gameplay. They might look cool, but they’re ultimately just for show.

Optimise Your Device

These activities can drain your battery and memory faster than you might expect, so make sure your device is up for the task. Close any unnecessary apps running in the background and consider clearing out some space on your phone if you’ve got a lot of unused apps or photos clogging up storage. 

When you’re playing, keep an eye on how much power it’s consuming. If it’s too much, many games have an option to lower graphics quality or adjust performance settings, which can extend your playtime without compromising the experience too much.

If you’re serious about mobile gaming, you might want to look into getting an enhanced phone designed for gaming. Although optimising what you already have should do the trick if you’re just a casual player.