Best 5 Mobile Gaming Genres In 2024

Mobile gaming is now bigger than ever. More people are choosing to play games on their phones because of the convenience—being able to play anytime, anywhere. With total mobile gaming revenue in the US reaching $5.71 billion.

What’s even more interesting is how popular mobile gaming is with younger generations. Gen Alpha (kids born after 2010) and Gen Z (those born between 1997 and 2012) love playing on their phones. In 2020, 79% of active mobile game players were Gen Z and Gen Alpha. This change toward mobile gaming is clear, and as phones get better, gaming on them becomes even more enjoyable. 

In this article, we will look at the top five mobile game genres in 2024, exploring what makes each one special and why they are so popular amongst players.

Casual Games

Casual games remain a massive hit in 2024. These games are designed for anyone to pick up and play, even if they only have a few minutes to spare. They’re simple, fun, and often free, making them a favorite for people of all ages.

Key Features of Casual Games:

Simple controls and mechanics

Short play sessions

Broad audience appeal

Usually free-to-play with in-app purchases

Why Are Casual Games Popular?

Casual games are designed to be easy to pick up and play. They’re designed to be easy and fun, even for people who don’t see themselves as “serious” gamers. The simple mechanics and straightforward gameplay mean that anyone, no matter their skill level, can jump in and start enjoying the game almost instantly. 

Classic hits like Candy Crush Saga and Subway Surfers continue to be favorites, while newer titles like Royal Match are quickly gaining popularity, keeping the casual gaming genre as one of the most played on mobile platforms.

Role-Playing Games (RPGs)

Role-playing games have only grown more popular and expansive on mobile devices. Players love RPGs for their deep storytelling, character development, and world-building. Many RPGs now come with console-level graphics, giving players a rich experience on their phones.

Key Features of RPG Games:

Rich storylines and world-building

Character development through leveling up and customization

Often turn-based or action-oriented combat systems

Strategic decision-making

Why Are RPG Games popular?

RPGs are incredibly popular because they offer a deep and immersive experience that keeps players engaged for the long term. One of the key reasons is character progression—players can level up, unlock new abilities, and customize their characters.

In 2024, Genshin Impact is considered one of the good mobile games that continue to thrive with stunning visuals, engaging combat, and frequent updates that keep players coming back. Newer titles like HonKai Star Rail is also bringing fresh energy to the genre, mixing turn-based combat with a sci-fi setting.

Battle Royale Games

Battle Royale games are action-packed, multiplayer experiences where players compete to be the last person (or team) standing in a shrinking play area. These games are fast-paced and often involve both shooting and survival elements.

Key Features of a Battle Royal Games:

Multiplayer-focused, often with large player counts

Shrinking play areas to force encounters

Fast-paced, high-adrenaline gameplay

Customizable characters and equipment

PUBG Mobile was one of the first and most successful battle royale games on mobile, where players parachute onto an island, collect weapons, and fight to be the last one standing. However, in recent years, Fortnite has surged in popularity in the mobile gaming space.

Why Do Battle Royale Games Stand Out?

Battle royale games have gained massive popularity due to their high-energy gameplay and competitive nature. They are easy to start playing but hard to master, making them addictive for players. For developers, this genre provides opportunities to build large, competitive communities.

Puzzle Games

Puzzle games are a consistent favorite because they combine fun with a bit of brainpower. In 2024, puzzle games have grown to offer more interactive and visually appealing experiences, but they still maintain the simple logic-based mechanics that made them so loved.

Key Features of a puzzle game:

Problem-solving mechanics

Often involve logic, matching, or spatial awareness

Can be played in short sessions

Appeals to a broad audience

Why Are Puzzle Games popular?

Puzzle games challenge the mind while being easy to play at any time. They’re perfect for players who enjoy problem-solving in short sessions.

Tetris was one of the earliest and most iconic puzzle games, while new titles that came up in the recent year like Monument Valley and Gardenscapes have taken the puzzle genre to new heights.

Play-to-Earn Games

Play-to-earn games are a relatively new and exciting genre that has gained popularity thanks to blockchain technology. These games allow players to earn real-world rewards, such as cryptocurrency or NFTs (non-fungible tokens), by playing the game.

Key Features of plat-to-earn games:

Rewards players with in-game assets that have real-world value

Often linked to blockchain technology

Requires investment in terms of time or money to maximize earnings

Community-driven with a focus on trading and collecting

What Makes Play-to-Earn Games Popular?

The appeal of play-to-earn games lies in the ability to earn money while playing. This genre is attracting both gamers and investors, making it one of the fastest-growing trends in the gaming industry. 

Some examples of play-to-earn games include Axie Infinity, where players can collect, breed, and battle creatures called Axies. Players earn cryptocurrency through in-game activities, which can then be traded for real money. Another popular title is The Sandbox, a virtual world where players can create, own, and monetize their gaming experiences using NFTs and the game’s native cryptocurrency, making it a favorite among play-to-earn gamers.

First-Person Shooter Games

First-person shooter (FPS) games are another highly popular genre in mobile gaming. In these games, players experience the action through the eyes of their character, making for an immersive and intense gaming experience. FPS games often focus on fast-paced combat, where players engage in shootouts, either in single-player missions or in multiplayer modes against other players.

Key Features of FPS Games:

Fast-paced, action-packed gameplay

First-person perspective for immersive experiences

Multiplayer modes, often with team-based combat

Customizable weapons and gear

Call of Duty: Mobile is One of the top FPS games franchises ported to mobile, and PUBG Mobile: While known for its battle royale mode, PUBG Mobile also has FPS gameplay elements that add to its intense combat experience.

Why Do FPS Games Stand Out?

FPS games are loved for their fast-paced action and competitive nature. Players enjoy the thrill of shootouts and the challenge of improving their skills to beat opponents. For developers, FPS games offer a chance to create highly engaging and competitive experiences that keep players coming back for more.

Devoted Studios' Success Stories

Devoted Studios has collaborated with industry leaders to deliver high-quality mobile games across various genres, contributing to a wide range of projects across different genres. From racing games to match-3 games and even Play-to-Earn Games. 

NASCAR Manager

Devoted Studios helped refresh this 1v1 racing game, focusing on 3D art and user-friendly design. 

Olympic Games: Beijing 2022

We contributed to both 2D/3D art, animations, and gameplay creation.

Cubiverse

We handled full-cycle development, transitioning it from iOS to Android, and even integrated wallet features for cryptocurrency.

Battlestar Galactica

Improving visuals and camera views, enhancing performance.

Forza Customs

We designed almost 1,500 levels, making sure the game had balanced difficulty and provided an enjoyable experience for all players.

What’s Next?

Whether you’re planning to develop an RPG or a casual game, it’s important to make sure your game is optimized for profitability in the mobile gaming industry. Choosing the right monetization model is just as important as deciding which type of game to create. To discover which monetization strategy will work best for your mobile game app, check out our mobile game development service.

If you're searching for tools to measure your app’s performance and marketing efforts, contact us to learn how Devoted Studios can support your mobile game’s growth and success.