Mobile gaming surges in 2024 with hits like Balatro+ and upcoming releases such as 'Hidden in My Paradise,' Age of Empires Mobile, and Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket. EA Sports FC Tactical and Sonic Rumble are also set to expand the market, promising diverse and engaging gameplay experiences.

The TON blockchain gaming sector surged by 320% with 385 titles but minimal token benefits, while Gunzilla Games' Off The Grid begins playtesting on Xbox ahead of its Q4 2024 release. Meanwhile, Lamborghini and Animoca debut a hub for interoperable game assets, and various other gaming initiatives, including Sky Mavis's Tatsumeeko, continue to shape the evolving blockchain gaming landscape.

The latest PocketGamer.biz Podcast dives into the Top 50 Mobile Game Makers 2024 list and discusses industry trends. The team also highlights key takeaways from Pocket Gamer Connects Helsinki, Finnish Games Week, and new fees from Epic Games.

Moonray Studio is set to launch a mobile auto-battler game in Q1 2025, expanding its universe beyond PC and console platforms. Leveraging blockchain technology, the game will offer asset ownership and token rewards, aiming to broaden its audience and enhance engagement.

EA's new mobile game, The Sims Labs: Town Stories, has been uncovered on the Google Play Store, focusing on playtesting new gameplay types within the franchise. Currently in its early development phase, the game has sparked fan concerns over graphics and microtransactions but also shows promise with semi-open-world features and beloved characters.

KRAFTON, Inc. will unveil new games, including Project ARC, at G-STAR 2024 in Busan this November. The event will also feature inZOI, Dinkum Mobile, and initiatives from Better Ground, their CSR program.

Xsolla's Web Shop 2.0 and Instant Web Shop are revolutionizing game monetization, boosting revenue by 10-16% and achieving conversion rates of 40-60%. As direct-to-consumer sales become vital, developers are leveraging these tools to cater to high-value players and optimize revenue through personalized offers and seamless user experiences.

"The Sims Labs: Town Stories, a new semi-open-world mobile game set in Plumbrook, has surfaced on the Google Play Store. Featuring assets from The Sims Mobile and The Sims FreePlay, the game includes interactions with iconic character Bella Goth but shows signs of early development with visual bugs and animation issues."

Dentsu has named Dan Pantumsinchai as the managing director of gaming for the Asia Pacific region, effective immediately. With a rich background at Riot Games, Twitch, Capcom, Bandai, and Google, Dan will spearhead dentsu's gaming strategy from Singapore, reporting to APAC chief business officer Yusuke Kasahara.

Epic Games Store will launch on mobile platforms in late 2024, aiming to rival Apple and Google with free games and lower developer fees. The rollout faces potential delays due to ongoing payment solution development, but Epic remains optimistic about its mobile market entry.

The mobile gaming industry has experienced significant shifts, with SayGames, Azur Games, and Netmarble showing notable growth, while Jam City faces revenue challenges. Epic Games plans a comeback with its own platform, and Sega's acquisition of Rovio highlights strategic expansions.

The Philippine online gaming sector is booming post-pandemic, driven by increased mobile gaming and a shift towards digital entertainment, according to a study by 188BET. This growth has spurred job creation, economic recovery, and substantial government revenue, with platforms innovating through live streaming, AR, and VR to meet rising user demands.

Shiba Inu's gaming division has launched Shiboshi Rush, a new mobile tower defense game featuring Shiboshi characters. Despite its inclusive and fun emphasis, technical issues have marred its Android launch, while the iOS version remains pending.