Hyper-casual games have a massive audience. These lightweight mobile games have become the prime pastime for many consumers. Serving as the perfect way to fill gaps in the day, it’s no surprise they’ve seen unprecedented growth in recent years.
Crash Bandicoot: On the Run is a hyper-casual game being released on Android and iOS devices later this year. Officially announced by the developers of Candy Crush, it will be free-to-play when it launches – so what better time to discuss the popularity of hyper-casual games and how they’re shaping the gaming market.
The Rise of Hyper-Casual Games
Since the app store launched a decade ago, hyper-casual games have climbed their way to the top of the charts. These games enjoy massive levels of engagement, however, they’re not entirely new. In many ways, they’re a revival of 1970s arcade games, with action-orientated titles like Pac-Man and Tetris being the original hyper-casual games, both of which continued to be played today.
As the name suggests, hyper-casual games are easy and fun to play, with little time and attention needed from players. With simple mechanics, their ease and accessibility give them a broad appeal, so people who don’t identify as “hardcore” gamers can enjoy a few minutes of fun here and there.
Source: Pixabay
There are several key reasons why hyper-casual games have exploded at such a fast rate. Firstly, the behaviours of today’s mobile game players and what appeals to them have changed. Many players prefer low-commitment gaming that can be played in short bursts. The desire to play games from anywhere epitomises the instant gratification culture of the twenty-first century – and in some ways, this ease of access is part of the reason why online casino games are now more popular than ever before. Gaming websites such as Bonus Finder provide players with a guide to gambling games with free spins. Sites that offer mobile slots will continue to grow as more people seek ease and convenience. Gone of the days of having to take a trip to the arcades or casinos. Now, it only takes a tap on a smartphone to start playing.
From a business point of view, hyper-casual games are very easy to monetise, because of their short and compelling nature. Most hyper-casual games feature in-app purchases to unlock new levels, as well as third-party placements within the gaming experience. Since hyper-casual games are more likely to go viral, it’s no wonder companies like Goldman Sachs invested hundreds of million dollars in hyper-casual markets.
Source: Pixabay
Are They Here To Stay?
Hyper-casual gaming is a crowded market, but as long as developers keep adding more depth and premium features, they’ll be able to retain audiences of all demographics. These games are likely to remain at the top of the industry for a while. At a basic level, hyper-casual games fill that need for escapism, all within a very streamlined experience.
It’s an exciting time for gaming. The age-old stereotype of the “gamer” as solitary and unsociable has largely come to an end. There’s now a rich body of evidence that gaming is good for you and can help people learn how to solve problems and multi-task, and there’s no denying games are a great stress relief too. Hyper-casual gaming is a blockbuster genre and they will continue to evolve, bringing unique experiences to all players.