Despite a challenging year due to a 2.1 per cent drop in mobile gaming revenue and numerous layoffs, about 81 per cent of mobile game developers have demonstrated resilience and confidence, according to a report by Sandsoft, a global company engaged in mobile games development, publishing and investment.
According to the report, which questioned 454 senior mobile game developers in the United States, Spain and France, an impressive 81 per cent are actively developing new titles, indicating a forward-thinking mentality despite the current slowdown. While the gaming industry had over 10,000 layoffs in 2024, more than half of developers believe the worst is behind them, with 51 per cent reporting that the wave of layoffs is largely done.
Access to cash remains a major issue, with 83 per cent of developers successfully obtaining funding for their projects. Interestingly, publishers are highlighted as a critical source of this cash, ranking second only to strategic investors. This demonstrates the continued importance of publishers in a more self-publishing-driven world, with 34 per cent of developers recognising the value publishers bring. However, not all developers agree, with 27 per cent expressing concern about unfavourable transaction terms and a perceived imbalance in the publisher-developer relationship.
Sandsoft CEO David Fernández Remesal emphasised the need of industry collaboration, saying, "In a market where launching new games is extremely difficult, publishers must be a force for good." We wanted to better understand the needs, hopes and concerns of mobile game developers around the world. The findings show that despite clear problems, developers remain positive and optimistic. Nothing is more crucial than creating enjoyable and interesting experiences."
The paper also highlights growing market trends and difficulties. Latin America is seen as an important rising market for game publication, whereas Southeast Asia is renowned for its unique content. Hybrid-casual games are regarded as the most feasible in the present market, with 43 per cent of developers preferring this genre to others. 90 per cent of developers emphasise the significance of delivering AAA-quality gaming on mobile devices, with an increasing reliance on AI and blockchain technology during the development process.
Despite a positive outlook for new projects, developers remain cautious. Only 9 per cent of those working on new games have made it to the soft launch stage, and over half expect more layoffs. Concerns regarding job security are widespread, with 67 per cent of developers concerned about their current positions. As the industry faces these issues, the analysis emphasises the need of publishers adjusting to developers' needs and cultivating a more balanced and collaborative relationship. The findings are a barometer of the mobile gaming industry's health and future orientation.
