subject: Droid Does Games [print this page] Move over DSMove over DS. So long PSP. The handheld gaming market has officially been taken over by the android. In the first two quarters of 2010 Android Game Development has blown past all 2009 records and has outpaced 2010 expectations altogether. In Q2 the android market grew an astonishing 900% according to analyst firm Canalys. With trends of each quarter virtually doubling the previous the message is clear. Android is the future of the mobile gaming market.
Ill admit Im not the worlds foremost expert in video game economics. But from a laypersons perspective it only makes sense.
First, I feel like the handheld gaming industry has largely missed a major market segment, working class adults. Like so many others, I enjoy playing a quick game of bejewled to pass the time while Im waiting in line at the bank. And when I have a little more free time bejewled quickly gets tossed aside for the thrills of Call of Duty. Having the ability to play both right at my fingertips, regardless of where I may be would be incredible. But, like so many other responsible working adults, Im not to keen on carrying a bulky PSP in my pocket or 3DS in my briefcase. Android Games Development gives me the option of enjoying some of my favorite games, right from a device Im already carrying.
Apparently Sony Ericsson agrees. Word has it the folks at Sony are in the process of developing a hybrid PSP/cell phone if you will. Destined to run off the android platform, the Sony gaming phone has been received with much anticipation and excitement in gaming circles. The buzz is at full volume. Apparently the thought of fragging Nazi Germans, while checking email and catching up with siblings on the opposite coast is enough to warrant great anticipation. Early estimates suggest the new possible Playstation brand phone will be released early fourth quarter 2010.
Another reason the android is excelling in the world of mobile gaming is due to the linux based platform android is based off. I confess, Im no linux expert either. But heres what it means to the common person like you or me. Unlike blackberry and iPhone, which place limitations and restrictions on development, Android Application Development is a multithreaded, multitasking environment. Meaning it is much more wide open, allowing developers to really control the content they create. The open platform fosters creativity and innovation and ultimately seems to bring the best out in developers.
In fact, by many accounts there are more android applications currently in development than any other mobile medium. As the number of android users multiplies, so too will the available content. And with android coming into its own in 2010, we can expect a variable onslaught of android applications to become available through 2011 and beyond.
You might as well go check now because Im almost positive your cell phone plan is up for renewal. And if you love multitasking, making and receiving calls, and above all else gaming, youre not alone. Either way the android is the right phone for you. And if you have the next million dollar android gaming application in mind, there are a number of companies such as Sourcebits.com you can contact to get your game out of your head and into the hands of millions of android users.
