Machine Learning has taken over the tech world in a major way, and the gaming industry has also made the most of it in the past few years. The process of game development has been impacted owing to its rise. So, how is it that this part of AI technology affects games as a whole? Let us see in the following lines.

The influence of Machine Learning on gaming technology

•   Making mobile games more engaging 

Mobile games are the most popular when it comes to gaming and has taken over 51% of the overall market share as far as players are concerned. Since they are more portable than consoles, mobile games have topped the popularity charts when compared to other tools for gaming. 

There are hundreds of thousands of such games and integrating Machine Learning into mobile games development gives a unique experience to the player, by making it more engaging. Since the new mobile devices are including AI chips in them, the processing power of the hardware is augmented, giving rise to an more immersive experience to the players.

•   Enhanced NPCs

Non-playable-characters or NPCs are quite significant features in gaming. The way they react to a player’s action during gameplay is already defined during game development. However, when the same is integrated with Machine Learning, the reactions cannot be predicted. For example, if the player has mastered a certain combat game, the gameplay automatically becomes more challenging and the NPCs respond in a novel manner as compared to before.

• Interactive gameplay

NPCs have become more interactive and these virtual interactions are not mundane. Since they are unscripted, the players get more engrossed in the games as their conversations/actions appear realistic.

• A more dynamic environment

The environment in which the gameplay happens is more dynamic. Since they are at their creative best owing to game Artificial Intelligence, players are transported to a unique and attractive world. Machine Learning makes it easier for developers to come up with such alternative worlds without much effort and these are meant to keep up the interest of the gamers on any given day.

• Development of games based on data

As mentioned earlier, Artificial Intelligence is all about data. Using this, the algorithms are able to deduce the behavior patterns of players over a period of time. Data driven game development produces the best games that are interactive. The outputs are more dynamic since they are based on previous data and since all this happens without any need for human intervention, there are no delays of any kind. Each player will be able to experience unique gameplay with enhanced game designs.

• Improved/Decreased response time

Based on the data collected, the response time decreases in the gameplay. The dynamic processing capabilities make this happen. There is no delay in getting a reaction to a player’s particular action and this gives rise to a better gaming experience. Since the outputs are faster, players are always on their feet as they cannot predict the reaction and will be more immersed in the game. It is more like a customized response time that depends on how good a player is in the said gameplay.

Machine Learning is a huge part of game development trends

Machine Learning is a major contributor to creating engrossing games in design as well as development perspectives. Whether it is the NPCs or the output results, this application has been recognized by video, mobile and console game developers. Generating responsive and faster outputs that are relevant to the players’ actions are unique and offer an experience that cannot be replaced. 

The fact that Machine Learning is able to create an undeniably realistic experience for players of all ages is one of the major reasons for its wide usage. Since the tool is self-learning and does not require any specific programming, it is being implemented successfully in different types of games. The future of the gaming industry lies in how well game developers are able to adapt to the AI Technology as a whole, and Machine Learning in particular.

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In addition to the games that are played physically in parties and gatherings, there are other avenues which offer scary entertainment. And since we are in the middle of a global pandemic that has us confined to our homes in an effort to stay healthy, Halloween mobile games can be your go-to solution this year. There are a number of mobile games that have Halloween themes and these can be pursued to get into the right ‘spirit’. 

It can be overwhelming to choose from among the options available. So, we are here to help you! Following are the top 3 Witch games that can be downloaded for free and which offer the best experience whenever you play them on your mobile devices:

3 games that best depict the Halloween world experience

1. Witchdom 
   This is amatch 3 game from 1Gamez and it is full of surprises. The graphics are eerie at their best. There is a Witch on her broom who guides you and keeps up the Halloween spirit throughout! The props are all pumpkins, candies and hats, and these will keep you close to the theme. Another thing that is worth a mention is the background music. It is quite rousing in its scary sense and is bound to keep the players on their feet at all times.  As far as the gameplay is concerned, it starts with simple match 3 games format and these get progressively  challenging as you go on. You have several boosters to help you in the advanced puzzles. There is a level of mystery that keeps you hooked to the game and with unlimited surprises and exciting adventures, you will have the best Halloween world in your hands. 1500 levels of fun and horror await you this season! 
2. Witchdom 2 –
   As the name suggests, it is part 2 of the aforementioned game. Another amazing production of 1Gamez, this is also a match 3 game with 1000 levels. The Witch is more playful in this and has a number of companions which makes it even more enjoyable. The music and graphics are a match to the Witch’s playfulness. There are candies and baked goods which you will need to collect by matching 3 or more and like the previous one, the levels become difficult as you progress further. There is help in the form of powerups and boosters. There are many players who play the first and second Witchdom versions simultaneously, and though they are match 3 games, there is a lot that makes them unique to each other.
3. Halloween Witch Connect 
   If you are looking for a connecting game based onHalloween themes, this is perhaps one of the best options. An offering from the Launchship Studios, this, as the name suggests, requires you to connect similar items and win levels. There are 2000 puzzles in all, and with the company of the witch flying on her magic broom and encouraging you to do your best, there is nothing better to enjoy in this season than play! As with the other two games mentioned above, the graphics and game are relevant and are equally enjoyed by people of all ages.

Enjoy Halloween mobile games this time around!

Though you are unable to meet all your friends and go from door to door looking for treats this Halloween, these 3 games will ensure that you have the best celebrations sitting at home. These are free to download with in-app purchases. So, get your scary costume on, have some candies and baked goods ready, and start playing these witch games. 

Be as close to a perfect Halloween season as possible by recommending the games to your friends and family and playing together. Share your high scores and brag as often as you can! Stay put, play these spooky games, and have a

happy Halloween, everyone!

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As the saying goes, the silver lining in all of this is the impact of coronavirus on the gaming industry, which has seen an unexpected boom in the past few days. Since most of the employees have been given a ‘Work from Home’ opportunity to curtail the spread of the virus, there has been a positive effect on mobile gaming as a whole.

Here is how the aforementioned industry has fared in the past few days:

• Owing to the lockdowns and curfew-like conditions in places from around the world, people are forced to stay indoors. This has been the situation for more than 3 weeks now and it is uncertain as to how long it will take for things to normalize. People are finding new ways to entertain themselves and mobile gaming is one avenue that they are pursuing. 

The games that are available for Android and iOS are mostly free to download with in-app purchases. Since there are no limitations of the use of the internet, players who love games can download whichever apps meet their interest and start playing whenever they find the time.

Before coronavirus, people used to play games in the break-times and during transit. Currently, they have more time on their hands and hence, the time that they spend playing has increased by a large margin, according to reports.

• As mentioned earlier, people have more time for relaxation. They are playing more and consequently, are willing to spend money as well for boosters, extra lives, etc. They are engrossed in the games and wish to stay ahead of the other players. This gives rise to more income for the game developers. According to gaming economy surveys, the spending pattern has seen a change in the past few weeks and it can be attributed to this reason.
• The mobile gaming industry is inclusive. There are different types of games such as puzzle, action, adventure, racing, sports, casual and arcade. People of all ages and from different walks of life can enjoy games of their respective choices, mostly for free. Therefore, most of the people prefer this avenue to relax their minds to others. It offers them an immersive experience that maybe, none of the other options provide. 

Though there is a positive coronavirus impact on the gaming business, everyone of us has to be aware of the current situation. Even when the affected countries are taking all the preventive measures, there are many people dying every day owing to the pandemic. It would take a long time for the whole world to recover from the crisis. Let us hope that it is only a matter of time until normalcy is restored and we are back to being a healthy and happy world!

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Let us take the example of mobile games. When every other avenue is being decorated in the Christmas spirit, why should games be left behind? There are many gaming development companies that have already introduced new themes in order to keep up with this time of the year. Here is a list of some of the games that you will find interesting:

• Christmas Bash – As the name suggests, this offering from Launchship Studios is Christmas based. There is Santa going, ‘Ho ho ho’, and many other happy characters in the app. It is a Match 3 game where players need to collect candies, cookies and cakes. There are several items such as the characters, graphics and the background board that have been changed for the upcoming holidays. A new theme has been added to keep up the Christmas spirit. This has made the game even more relevant to the festivities and players young and old can relate to it whenever they try this game.
• Candy World – It is such a wonderful feeling to see characters in games wearing Christmas caps and inviting you to play the game. Though Candy World is based on the Christmas holidays with sweetmeats galore, the latest update will keep the players come back for more.. There have been a few tweaks such as a new theme with regards to the graphics, designs, etc. which adds to the whole package. So, the next time you are playing this Match 3 puzzle game, get ready to be pleasantly surprised.
• Mike and Happy Glass – This is a draw a line and fill the cup game from Foghop that has Mike as the main character. He is happy when his cup is filled with coffee and not when it is empty. Players need to ensure that the coffee falls into the cup and does not spill by drawing lines around the obstacles. For this year’s upcoming Christmas festivities, there have been several changes. The theme and design are just a couple of them. 
• Crazy Story – What makes this game unique is a 3 mode play. Players can match, tap and connect their way up. This is another mobile app that has been refashioned owing to the approaching holidays. There are sweets along with a Christmas theme/background and players can ring in the festivities a lot earlier. Sophie, the main character in the game has also been given a new look as a part of the latest update.
• Spots Connect – This popular offering is known for its unlimited levels. The colorful spots need to be connected and the gameplay offers many challenges as you go up. It is one of the more popular games in the genre. As far as Christmas is concerned, there is a new theme which can be explored by players. There are several other changes in the board which are meant to ring in the festivities.
• Cookie Burst Mania – The colorful cookies and candies in this puzzle game await collecting. There are many changes that have been made for this Christmas season. These include a brand new theme and new accessories for the characters. The updated version is believed to offer a novel welcome to the upcoming holidays.
• Zig Zag Santa – Christmas is not complete without giving and receiving gifts. This game is all about helping Santa deliver gifts to everyone. Help him by avoiding any obstacles and sliding across the snow so he collects all the gifts to be delivered. There are trees, houses and other characters that players need to look out for. Although it is a Christmas based game, there have been a few changes made to the overall graphics and this has given a new look to it.

There is nothing more fun than enjoying the imminent gaiety early on by playing these games. Have a wonderful time with the modified versions and we are sure you will have the best gaming experience ever!

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Similarly, games, and more specifically, mobile games, have opened the doors for a number of enthusiasts to venture into an exciting world that offers simulation, relaxation and a sense of achievement, along with a colorful experience. These are ideally available for free in App Stores and can be downloaded onto almost any smart phones. The genres of games that are hugely popular include matching puzzles, casual, cooking and massively multiplayer online games.

Most of these games have spots as their props. There are several connecting the props games that are immersive and offer hours of entertainment to mobile gamers from around the world. For the sake of brevity, let us discuss matching puzzles in order to understand the topic at hand.

These can be played by all age groups – from children to the elderly. Gaming companies use different props such as candies, fruits, vegetables, etc. that need to be matched in order to progress further in the game. However, it is the spots that take the top position as far as popularity is concerned. Connecting the spots and accomplishing specific targets in the respective levels can offer varied challenges to players without them feeling bored. 

The thing that sets such games apart is the vibrancy associated with the colorful spots. Here are a few other reasons why colorful spots attract players from different walks of life:

• Ubiquitous spots design – People who love mobile games relate to them on a personal level as they play almost every day. Since the props used (Spots) are balanced and are not intended to hurt the sentiments of people based on color, region, gender, class, religion and other attributes, these are highly popular as far as casual games as concerned. Connecting these neutral spots is addictive and can create a gameplay that is inclusive for children, youngsters, men and women.
• Fanciful colors that appeal to everyone- Each color has a specific meaning attached to it. For example, black is known for absorbing everything. Red is the color of passion and dynamism, and green is refreshing. Yellow is said to spread happiness and blue is the color for relaxation. All these basic colors are included in ‘spots connecting’ games. Most of them offer customization options to players in which they can choose different hues in the specific colored spots that have been included.
• Riveting Gameplay – Though it appears that just connecting spots can get boring after a while in theory, it is not so in practicality. Game developers make sure to include diverse challenges in progression so as to keep up the interest of the players. Another thing that adds to the whole gaming experience is the colors. These colors give an impression to the players that they are being presented with multiple gameplays in a single app because of their vividness. The contrast that is created when such vibrant colored spots are placed on a neutral UI base is equally important. This creates a pleasing effect on the eyes and does not tire the players’ eyes in any way.
• Intrigues the target demographic of female players – Women love radiant graphics, and what can be better than colored spots to attract their attention! Reports prove that female players make almost 50% of the total mobile gamers in the world and the percentage is increasing on a daily basis. Therefore, offering ‘connecting the spots’ games with effervescent props is bound to provide this demographic with the most relevant options.

All the aforementioned reasons make mobile games with colorful spots the most popular choice when compared to other props. The fact that these are easily relatable and can be enjoyed for a longer time period also play an important role. 

There are many enjoyable games such as Spots Connect which has the most downloads and continue to top the charts even after a long time. An offering from the Launchship Studios, this happens to be a popular choice amongst players who love playing with splendent spots. It’s time to make these spots an important part of your mobile gaming life, and how!

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In order to understand this phenomenon better, let us first define fantasy gaming.

What are live fantasy games?

Live fantasy online games/sports is a genre in which players form their own virtual teams with real players involved in the relevant sports. These teams play against one another and accrue points based on the real-time performance of the actual players in specific championships. Based on the players’ performance in the live matches, the virtual teams get points/rewards. 

To make is easier, let us take the example of cricket, and more specifically, the Indian Premier League (IPL). Famous players from around the world are auctioned and bought by varied clubs. They then play against each other in a series of matches. In live fantasy gaming, players who love cricket can create their own virtual teams with the players available and get them to play with each other. As per the performance of the players in the real matches, the results in the virtual matches are arrived at.

Now that we all understand the idea behind fantasy league matches, let us look at the reasons for their popularity:

Why are fantasy games being pursued by the gaming industry?

• Appeals to a large demographic – As mentioned earlier, there are many options available in the sports industry that can form the basis for fantasy league matches. These include cricket, football, volleyball, tennis, table tennis, badminton, etc. Each game has players that are renowned amongst people from around the world. These are famous personalities whose careers are followed by a large number of people who love sports.If a live fantasy game is being offered, it is imperative that such enthusiasts would want to partake in them. There is a sense of accomplishment that is associated with such games and people who idolize sports persons will not think twice before enrolling in such sports/games.
• Revenue-generating – The sports industry is universal. It is not divided into regions. People from a certain part of the world enjoy games that originate from other countries. Therefore, the opportunities that the industry presents are huge. Game developers can capitalize on this aspect and create fantasy games that are immersive. If the gameplay offers them an experience that matters, people who like a particular sport/game will not shy away from paying for it.

• A chance to implement futuristic technology – There are only a handful of such games which players can enjoy along with their sport icons. Using the latest technology, it is possible to create unique games that can take fantasy gaming to great heights. Tools such as AR and/or VR can be used for the perfect gaming experience.

Tools such as big data and Google Analytics can be used in the fantasy gaming field. There are billions of people of varied age groups who play online games and such data can be used to streamline their activities and create games that are relevant and inclusive. Google Analytics can optimize the pattern of spending, the regions that generate more income and the best time to introduce such games to the market. Developers can make the most of this information whilst creating their games.

Barring a few, fantasy sports is considered to be legal in most countries. Asia is one of the regions where it is legal and the market is enormous in terms of gamers. The ROI would also be immense. In addition to the big names in the gaming industry, there are many Indie developers who can work towards building games that matter to players who like sports. 

People who play online games are always looking for more and live fantasy sports has a huge untapped market that can be exploited. Gaming companies need to realize this and take up projects that are relevant to their goals. The number of such games should increase substantially in the coming years so as to provide gamers the variety that they wish for.

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Based on various studies, here is a list of some of the technology trends that can be considered by game developers for their future projects:

• Cloud for gaming

Gaming is all about speed. Whether it is the gameplay, the download or the time taken to switch from one level to the other, players are looking for new avenues so that they do not have to worry about internet/data. With cloud computing, they can play games with the same experience as streaming an audio/video file, without a PC or Console. A lot of time will be saved with this futuristic technology since there is no need to download specific games. Whenever someone signs up for a specific cloud service and chooses a game, it is streamed live onto the device without any lag time. The whole process is faster because of the remote hardware.

As far as the developers are concerned, the whole process of building a game will become easier. There are guides to refer to, platforms that are ideal for any game ideas and resources to produce an inclusive app. Another advantage is an integrated system. Everyone who is working on a particular project will be able to catch up with the whole team on a real-time basis. 

It is time to consider cloud for gaming to make it better for players as well as developers.

• AR/VR

There are several games that are based on Augmented Reality(AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies. With AR, the camera on a smartphone is enabled to make use of the player’s immediate surroundings and integrate them in the gameplay. This happens on a real time basis and hence, offers gamers a more dynamic experience. Pokemon Go is a classic example of the optimum use of AR in a game.

As far as VR is concerned, the player uses wearable and other suitable devices, and are completely immersed in the respective game that is being played. There is no distraction of any kind and players will be able to experience the maximum enjoyment levels that such games have been designed to offer.

These smarter & innovative trends will define the future of games. The experience that comes out of games based on AR and VR is unique. Players will be able to pursue new features that will take gaming to the next level. With wearable games and devices, the industry has a lot more to offer to the community of enthusiastic gamers.

• 5G

5G is all set to take over in the next year. There are a few countries that have already started testing this service. Compared to 4G, 5G uses higher radio frequencies which results in an increased speed and lower latency. It is estimated that 5G’s speed is 100 times faster than its predecessor. The download speeds are also reported as being 3 times faster than 4G LTE. 

Once 5G is established, online gamers can make the most of these benefits. A significant decrease in lag time can improve the gaming experience. Moreover, they will be able to access games on the go, without having to think about the signal strength.

• Secondary Screen for Gaming

Anyone who loves to play online games will agree that an additional screen such as a      tablet will take the experience up by several notches. A larger screen makes everything bigger and better. Whether it is the graphics, the sound quality or the overall gameplay, there is a substantial improvement when there is a second screen available. Also, if players have to access two screens at the same time, they can multitask whenever there is a need. So, the device that you play on becomes the primary screen and the second one can be used for any other purposes.

• Novelty

Nothing beats novelty. Players look for immersive games that offer something new to them. There are many game types such as puzzle, Match 3, MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online), AR, VR, Simulation, etc, that are available to be pursued. However, the basic design and tasks are more or less similar. Instead of tweaking the available ideas, developing a new idea from scratch and making a game that offers a unique experience is something that should be taken up in the coming year by gaming companies.

In addition to the above, disruptive technologies such as big data and voice recognition can be integrated by major players in the gaming industry. Let us take the example of big data. There 

are hundreds of thousands of players who are into online gaming. The data that is available is huge and collating the same and streamlining it would take a lot of time. However with big data and the tools therein, developers can make the most of the available information and use it to their advantage.

Voice recognition is another tool that can make gaming more interesting. If there is a tool that allows users a hands-free experience for a few actions in the gameplay, it can help them multi-task.

Using Google Analytics, game developers can learn about the behavioral patterns of players and offer them games that beguile their respective interests. 

So, there is a lot to look forward to in 2020 for game lovers, and we are hopeful that there are many immersive games to be pursued.

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However, just translating the game name, messages and tutorials is not going to get the job done. In the following lines, let us understand games localization and its benefits for developers as well as global gamers.

What is Games Localization?

To put it in simple words, the process of making a game understandable, relevant, relatable and playable by people belonging to diverse regions from around the world is known as Game Localization. This includes the language, the cultural sensitivities, authenticity and content, amongst others. Developers have been focussing on creating games that have a global presence and localizing them is one of the better prospects that should be undertaken.

Advantages of Game Localization

• Ideal for creating a global presence – Creating games that can be played by only a certain number of people in the country of its origin is a thing of the past. Gaming is such a huge niche that many developers are seeking ways to enter the global market in order to make their presence felt. To accomplish this, the said games need to be available in all the target languages so that people can relate to each of them as a whole.Right from the game name to its characters and their dialogue, there are many aspects that have to be taken into account. Using a professional translator for the purpose makes sense. There are many failed attempts at localizing games owing to poor translation and this has made the developers cautious. Investing capital in getting a professional to do the job is significant.
• Increase in ROI – If a certain game is downloaded by game lovers from various countries, the ROI is bound to increase by a high degree. It has become a norm to release a new game in languages such as Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, Brazilian and French, amongst others. These are some of the countries which have enthusiastic gamers who do not hesitate to download a game that is in their respective native languages. As the number of installs goes up, so does the ROI and the game becomes successful in multiple locations.
• Gives rise to satisfied gamers – Let’s say that you have developed a great game that has all the ingredients to make it successful and create a mark in the gaming industry. However, it is available only in the English language. Gamers who have heard about your new game and it’s features wish to download it. However, some of them are unable to understand it owing to language limitations. If at the time of the release, you had thought about all the target demographics, you would have gained a larger number of satisfied customers from around the world.
• Addressing the competitive market – There are hundreds of thousands of game developers that are striving hard to make a mark in the industry. By creating a brand that is able to produce games which are immersive, interactive and interesting, half of your job is done. The other half is taken care of by games localization, continual player engagement and regular updates. Amongst the latter, the localization part is very effective. As soon as you develop a game that can be released across multiple locations, you have met the requirements of the maximum number of players who would love to play the game in question.

Tools that are available to help you in games localization:

Using the Sony Play Station’s Localization Assets Management System (LAMS), gaming companies can optimize their policy on a real-time basis. There are many features such as language support, testing, audio and video text generation and identifying inappropriate text that are available in it. Those involved in the software development part of gaming can make use of the management of data, security details, quality analysis, filters and APIs using the LAMS.

In this year’s GDC that was held in March, one of the hot topics of discussion was game localization and its effectiveness in being able to connect with the global community of gamers. A number of industry experts reiterated the fact that this phenomenon needs to be taken up by every game developer who wishes to attract their target audiences on a large scale. 

As far as Unity game localization is concerned, they have a separate Plugin that is meant to help game developers take care of their translation needs. It is simple to use and can be mastered without any glitches.

Summing it up, if you a part of the gaming industry, you should be aware of the benefits of games localization and take it up before you are left behind in competition. 

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In the following lines, let us take a look at both of these individually so as to gain an understanding of how they can affect the gaming industry:

Apple Arcade

After Apple’s announcement in late March this year, there have been numerous speculations about how it’s Arcade is going to influence the gaming segment. Following are some of the features which make it a novel offering by this technology giant:

• Subscription Model – Based on the Amazon Prime/Netflix model, this service is to be made available on a monthly subscription basis. It is compatible with any iOS devices, mobiles, iPads and televisions included. People who own them can download over 100 top-end games from renowned studios. Since this is a paid version, there will be no ads and IAP (in-app purchases). 
• Games that matter – It is said that there is a lot of work behind the games that are being included as part of the subscription. These are meant to offer better gaming experience so that users do not have to search for any other avenues for their needs. Many industry experts involved in game development are a part of this process and this shows to prove that Apple is considering all aspects of games for redefining user-engagement.
• Importance to privacy – As with most of their products/services, this Apple gaming Arcade comes with stringent privacy policies. Safety is a major concern in any such models and hence, steps are being taken to ensure that user information is kept secure at all times.
• Widespread – According to the initial plan, Apple Arcade is set to be launched in over 150 countries including Asian countries as well. Therefore, most of the game lovers from around the world will not be left out in the bargain.

Google Stadia

Google was the first one to announce Stadia in the GDC held this year in March, before Apple came up with Arcade a week later. The beta version of Google Stadia is out and this is a ‘cloud to live streaming’ model. Here is a list of the vital features which are meant to make it unique:

• Cloud based – As mentioned earlier, this is a cloud game streaming service. Using Google Chrome or YouTube, gamers can live stream the games that they wish to play on multiple devices such as mobile, PC, console, tablet, etc. that run on Chrome. They have promised streaming at 4K which is impressive. 
• Offline mode available – Users can download games of their choice and play them offline too. This is something which has met with a lot of cheers from players who are constantly on the move.
• Limited release – The Google Stadia is expected to be released only in the US, UK, Europe and Canada. This makes it less accessible when compared to the Arcade as the players in Asia and several other countries will not be able to make use of the said services.
• Pay for games as you go – Users will have to pay for the games that they wish to download and stream on Stadia. There is a plan to release a library of free games in the future. However, the timelines are not defined.

Comparative study

As far as the Apple Arcade is concerned, the game developers are not allowed to release the 100 odd games anywhere else, as of now. The representatives have mentioned that this will change over time, though the dates aren’t yet specified. However, with Google Stadia, the entire games’ list can be played on other platforms. Another notable feature is device compatibility. The Arcade is being designed for iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple TVs, whilst Stadia can be used by anyone who has a device running on Chrome.

Gamers who are looking for an experience that takes them to a different strata can consider one of the aforementioned services/platforms. They are bound to bring about a sea of change to the way games are pursed and the industry needs to wait and watch for its effectiveness in attracting the target audience and retaining it for a considerable amount of time. The commencement of these two can prove to be pioneering in gaming as a whole.

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Coming to the types of games, the mobile gaming industry is one of the fastest growing amongst the lot, owing to the ubiquity of smartphones. Right from a young age, users have access to sources that offer them free games. This develops an interest in the players which grows with time. As far as mobile games for women are concerned, they prefer puzzle, Match 3, cooking and family board/arcade games. Women find them stress-relieving. These games can be designed to offer an immersive experience along with hours of entertainment. The young girls love the imaginary world that has been created to entertain them. In fact there are specific games designed for girls for the purpose. Players in the said demographic are between the ages of 12 and 45.

In addition to the above, let us look at a few other reasons for giving women their due in the gaming industry and why developers should be aware of the opportunities that this segment presents:

1. Women do not hesitate to spend money – Most of the popular games played worldwide are free to download, with in-app purchases. These are packs that give the players powerups, boosters, extra lives and many other enticing offerings. When women start playing a game and develop a liking towards it, they do not hesitate to use the ‘Shop’ option to better their chances at beating a level or getting a higher score. This means an increased ROI for the Game Studios. Developers need to tap this potential and increase the earnings by a significant margin.
2. Publicity – If women find a certain mobile game interesting, they are likely to talk about it with their friends and family. They share their experiences with others and in most cases, encourage them to start playing the said game. This leads to more downloads. In addition to the word-of-mouth publicity, there are other sources such as social media platforms, App Stores, etc, which play a vital role. Women are known to use these avenues to make their ilk aware that such a game exists and offers an amusing experience. This prompts the other players to pursue it.
3. Women are frequent players when compared to men – Games offer a sense of achievement as women can share their scores with friends and family members who play the same games. They offer relaxation and provide an immersive experience on any given day. Therefore, a large section of women players come back to play the games that they like. This decreases the chances of apps getting uninstalled by a considerable margin.
4. Make women feel inclusive – Despite the fact that half of the world’s total mobile gamers are women, there are only a handful of games that can be considered as inclusive for them. They are able to relate to only a handful of apps. Those games that have prominent female characters are downgraded by lieu of the apparel, the way they are projected and their strength. There is an immense amount of developer opportunity to create exclusive games using pioneering gaming technology. Women need to feel important and for this to materialize, the games have to be distinctive and relevant.

Mobile games give ample opportunities for players from around the world to connect with their fellow-players and be a part of the community, even on the go. They are known for offering a world that is ethereal and engaging at the same time. As discussed earlier, women need to feel the same way about the games that they frequently play. This can be made possible by offering them apps that they are able to relate to, and charm them into a different zone simultaneously.

Using gaming technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, gaming companies need to address the needs of the female demographic, right here and right now! There is a huge potential to earn money from the said players as they are more than willing to do their bit to the industry as a whole. Use women developers and designers to conceptualize and create games that are pertinent. Make the women gamers feel inclusive and the way they are perceived in the gaming world will change for the better. There is also bound to be a considerable increase in the ROI as a result.

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