Successful mobile gaming companies rely on a foundation of cross-functional collaboration, continuous learning, and adaptable strategies. As the industry continues to evolve, growth leaders must embrace emerging trends to foster future innovators. 

Key Insights

• Cross-functional collaboration is crucial in driving growth success in gaming
• Inside emerging trends and future predictions for the mobile gaming industry
• Key qualities considerations when investing in early-stage gaming startups

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Cross-Functional Collaboration = Growth

Creating a unified and collaborative team environment is one of the keys to success in the mobile gaming industry. In the same way that  nurturing a plant requires careful attention to various elements like soil and water, fostering gaming company growth involves striking a balance of team dynamics and shared objectives.  By bringing functions like product management and user acquisition into the same room, your team can better understand each other’s complexities and challenges, especially when dealing with live-ops and rapidly changing market dynamics.

The Future of Mobile Gaming

Staying ahead of industry trends is paramount as mobile gaming influence continues to rise. The hybridization of casual and complex gaming elements is a great example of this. By integrating deeper systems into user-friendly mechanics, these games manage to broaden their appeal and increase retention. “Casual gamers have now matured and can handle more complex controls and systems…”, says mobile gaming expert Josh Lu. 

Josh also foresees a resurgence in social and viral elements within mobile gaming, inspired by successful consumer applications. “Games have a lot to learn from innovative referral systems… and the potential for building social-oriented features is tremendous,” says Lu. World of Warcraft’s guild system serves as a timeless example of how social dynamics can drive sustained engagement.

Criteria for Assessing Early-Stage Gaming Startups

Understanding key investment criteria is crucial for those looking to invest in the growing mobile gaming industry. A team-first approach rooted in the principles of agility, conviction, and storytelling ability can significantly influence a startup’s potential. If you can emphasize  team quality (e.g.  looking to hire the right  personnel fits, even from non-gaming backgrounds) over specific market conditions or trends, the more adaptable and visionary teams will always prevail.