In today’s world, almost everyone has access to a smartphone. Game companies give us access to endless mobile games varying from battle royales to puzzle games. Millions upon millions play these games leaving the question of why people become so addicted to these games. I think it has to do with the brightness of many of these games and the easiness that comes with them to keep the player from getting mad and quitting. Another reason I think people get hooked is the award-based systems praising the player for every little accomplishment they make.
I think a fine example of this is matching games, such as Block Blast or Candy Crush Saga. Candy Crush Saga, not only is one of the most colorful games that even has a “candy bomb” that bursts into rainbows when used, but it is extremely easy the first couple of rounds. After playing for a while with these factors along with getting rewarded after finishing rounds you’re too far in and attached to the game to quit as it becomes harder. Many games follow this copy-and-paste style of mobile games, with little to no creativity put into games making them bland.
Another factor I believe goes into it is the mobility of mobile games. Unlike computer or PC games, mobile games provide entertainment on the go. Going to the doctor? School? Or even just a walk? You can take mobile games anywhere you go, and some games such as Pokemon Go encourage getting out and playing their games. While it may be good for games to encourage you to get outside, Pokemon Go led to many people not paying attention to their environment or where they were going leading many to danger, which can happen with about any mobile game.
With all these factors together I believe that mobile games are extremely addictive and possibly dangerous to some extent. As mobile games continue to grow so will the amount of players and the addictive cycle will continue through generations.
