Mobile games have become so ingrained into the daily lives of U.S. consumers that the majority of them are willing to give up other popular pastimes in favor of gaming. According to a study, conducted by mobile ad firm Tapjoy, 69 percent of U.S. consumers now prefer playing their favorite mobile games rather than navigating through social media apps or watching television. In fact, gaming was second only to texting in terms of mobile usage.
Bringing the conversation to our Rewarded Play community, we found that there were three common reasons why this shift is taking place.
Games provide an escape from reality.
For many people, the world of mobile gaming is the perfect break from a reality filled with stress, deadlines, and animosity. For 30-minutes players might lose themselves in a game where they can have fun, challenge friends, and even earn some extra spending money. While there are those that will argue that scrolling through social media or flipping on the news can provide that same escape. You have to ask yourself, is it truly a place you want to run away to?
For Rewarded Play user Bobby McKim, the clear answer was no. About a year ago, he made the decision to delete all of his social media accounts and limit his daily news consumption. With the current state of the world and the negative environment that looms over social media, he turned to gaming in hopes of finding an entertainment outlet that could raise his spirits, instead of leaving him feeling down in the dumps after an evening of scrolling.
“I just got tired of Facebook becoming so negative, I couldn’t scroll through my feed or post a status without being attacked for simply sharing a different opinion,” said McKim. “It often left me feeling anxious and sad. After I had my surgery, I knew I needed to find a new way to entertain myself while recovering, and that is when I ran across Rewarded Play. ”
Games keep your brain young.
According to experts, certain mobile games help support your overall brain health. Games that require solving puzzles or problem-solving skills can challenge the brain and help stall the loss of cognitive function over time. One member of our Rewarded Play community shared that mobile games have been a key part of her strategy to remain sharp-witted as she ages.
“Unfortunately, both of my parents have suffered from a dementia diagnosis,” said Carol Mackey, Rewarded Play user. “While my mom was still cognitive, she told me it was important to actively participate in activities that promote mental stimulus so that I don’t suffer the same fate. Through Rewarded Play I have found a great platform to do just that! I’m just so happy that I can earn rewards and keep my mind active at the same time.”
Mackey shared that her favorite mobile game is currently Mahjong City Tours which allows her to explore the world’s best cities while tackling challenging puzzles. Mahjong City Tours is only one of many games offered through Rewarded Play that can challenge users to think outside the box. Wordle was listed as another great option among users.
You can earn exciting rewards.
If mobile gaming is indeed your pastime of choice, you have the unique opportunity to monetize your hobby. Through Rewarded Play, you’ll be introduced to the newest trending games where you can earn points as you play and then cash those points in for exciting rewards. On average, Rewarded Play users who casually game an hour a day will receive $40 per month. So you tell me, is mobile gaming consumers past time of choice or an ingenious side hustle?
“I’m a stay at home mom and hop on the app whenever I have downtime,” said Melissa Rodriquez, Rewarded Play user. “ When I am waiting in the pick-up line at school or waiting for my kids to finish practice, I play some games on my phone and can feel accomplished that I earned points toward my next gift card!”
Rewarded Play and sister apps have awarded over $24 million in total rewards to users. Since we introduced Rewarded Play to the Google Play store in 2019, it has received over 5 million installs, and has quickly become the largest loyalty platform for mobile gamers in the U.S. While no purchases are required to earn gift cards, we're proud to say that users who choose to spend money earn greater rewards than they could on any competing play-to-earn app.
With all of these great incentives, it’s no surprise that mobile games are becoming the consumer's pastime of choice. Do you have additional insight why this shift is taking place? Shoot us a message at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you!