There’s no denying that handheld devices are the future.
With speculation over the release of the Switch 2 dominating tech news, it’s clear that even more portable gaming solutions are on the horizon for 2024. The increasing prominence of portable gaming is largely down to convenience, but there are other vital factors at play that keep the players coming back for more.
Whether you’re researching the latest tech or ditching your console for a handheld one, it’s worth knowing the reasons behind the surging popularity of mobile and portable games.
Five reasons behind the popularity of mobile gaming
On-the-go entertainment
Portable gaming devices offer impressive levels of convenience and flexibility. Where traditional consoles must be plugged into a power outlet and connected to the internet, portable devices remove these requirements.
Along with playing your favourite games on the go, it’s now easier than ever to integrate gaming with a busy lifestyle. Since you can tuck your phone or handheld console into your bag, you can take your favourite games almost anywhere with you. From your favourite café to the busy commuter train, you can play wherever you choose to.
This convenience is unrivalled, and it’s an easy way to explain why, according to one UK survey, more than 50% of people aged 16-44 play games on their mobile phones.
Advanced technologies
Thanks to rapid and unprecedent developments in portable gaming tech, devices now have capabilities that exceed any previous innovation. High-performance processors and crystal-clear graphics deliver an immersive, console-quality experience on handheld platforms.
Where raw processing power is concerned, portable devices might never be able to truly compete with ultra-high-definition monitors paired with gaming towers and consoles. However, their value is measured by the benefits they bring to individuals.
Some players simply prefer the experience of playing a game that’s as portable as it is powerful, especially in environments where it might not be possible to use a larger monitor. While consoles get bigger, handheld devices stay the same size – but offer even more perks.
Social connection
Lastly, portable gaming enables multiplayer experiences on the move too, facilitating effortless social interaction online.
Traditional games can be played online, and it’s possible for adults to meet like-minded players on a trusted bingo app. From gambling to trivia and action-packed software, many mobile games offer a chat room and the opportunity to link your account to that of your friends, old and new. With just a stable Internet connection and some strong engagement, the possibilities are near-endless.
Mobile gaming communities as players connect with friends and fellow gamers, irrespective of their physical location. Where transport can’t bring people together, mobile and portable gaming technologies always can.