How can you adapt game genres to different devices?

1 Platform features

The first thing you should consider when adapting game genres to different devices is the platform features, such as the screen size, resolution, input methods, audio quality, and performance. For example, a game that relies on precise aiming and shooting might not work well on a small touchscreen, while a game that requires complex keyboard commands might not be feasible on a console controller. You should also think about how the platform features affect the user experience, such as the immersion, comfort, accessibility, and feedback. For example, a game that uses VR or AR might create a more immersive and realistic experience, but also pose some challenges for comfort and accessibility.

3 User preferences

The third thing you should consider when adapting game genres to different devices is the user preferences, such as the demographics, the behaviors, the expectations, and the feedback. For example, a game that targets a younger audience might need to have a more colorful and cartoonish style, while a game that targets a more mature audience might need to have a more realistic and gritty style. You should also think about how the user preferences affect the game value proposition, the marketing strategy, and the monetization model. For example, a game that offers a premium or subscription-based service might attract more PC or console players, who are willing to pay upfront or regularly for a high-quality game, while a game that offers a free-to-play or ad-supported service might attract more mobile players, who are more sensitive to price and convenience.

4 Genre adaptation

The fourth thing you should consider when adapting game genres to different devices is the genre adaptation, which is the process of modifying or creating game genres and mechanics to suit the specific platform and audience. For example, a game that belongs to the platformer genre might need to adapt its controls, camera, level design, and physics to fit the touchscreen or motion sensor input of a mobile device, while a game that belongs to the strategy genre might need to adapt its interface, complexity, pace, and feedback to fit the limited screen and performance of a mobile device. You should also think about how the genre adaptation affects the game innovation, differentiation, and quality. For example, a game that adapts a popular genre to a new device might create a new and unique experience, but also face some risks of losing the original appeal or failing to meet the standards.

5 Testing and evaluation

The fifth thing you should consider when adapting game genres to different devices is the testing and evaluation, which is the process of checking and improving the game functionality, usability, and quality across different platforms and audiences. For example, a game that runs on multiple devices might need to test its compatibility, performance, and scalability on various hardware and software configurations, while a game that targets multiple audiences might need to test its appeal, accessibility, and satisfaction on various user groups and feedback channels. You should also think about how the testing and evaluation affects the game development, launch, and update. For example, a game that adapts to different devices might require more time, resources, and expertise to develop, launch, and update, but also offer more opportunities, reach, and revenue.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?