Have Smartphones Made The Gaming Console Obsolete?

SOURCE: Famigo

Just two years ago, gaming consoles were rooted in almost every kid’s childhood. They were a way to escape reality and let your imagination soar as you engaged with the video game world.  Some of my fondest childhood memories were from staying in the basement for days at a time as I attempted to beat every level of Super Mario Bros. and Zelda. Racing to get the newest Halo game, or to buy the new Madden football game has been the norm for years.

Now, because of the rise of mobile devices and apps, the newest games can be conveniently purchased from wherever you’re located. It is this ease and convenience factor that has suddenly shifted gaming from at home consoles to on-the-go devices.

To date, there are more smartphones in the world than total gaming consoles sold in history. $1.00 apps are in, $400 consoles and $50 games are out. To really illustrate the point, consider this: just five years ago, Nintendo’s newly released Wii and DS consoles helped Nintendo to become the world’s most profitable company per capita. Now, just five years later, Nintendo posted its first ever annual loss. This year will be the first generation of gaming consoles that won’t outsell their previous versions.

It’s not just technological advances that are changing the world of gaming. Kids gaming habits are changing as well. There is a new social aspect involved that we have never seen before. Sitting on the couch all day is no longer encouraged. Smartphones, tablets, and mobile apps allow for the ability to be connected to friends and fellow gamers while on the go, while traditional consoles force you to be parked in front of the television all day.

The digital graphics and gameplay features on past mobile platforms have not been comparable to the advanced features of consoles such as Xbox, but the quality of mobile gaming is rapidly improving with high resolution, HD screens. Whether it is the ability to game on-the-go or the much cheaper prices, traditional gaming consoles are becoming a thing of the past and consumers are moving more and more towards their mobile and tablet devices for gaming. It is sad to see such classic, fantasy-filled digital worlds being left behind, but luckily classic games can continue to entertain. For those who don’t want to let go of the past just yet, here’s some great app recommendations for classics such as Sonic the Hedgehog, Tetris, and Minecraft.

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Born and raised in Chicago, IL, Josh is currently a student at The University of Texas. Before joining Famigo, Josh started a day camp back home and he is excited to spread the fun throughout Austin! When Josh isn’t doing app reviews, he loves to play sports and enjoy the great outdoors.