Why Simple Mobile Games Entertain Us More Than Complex Ones
From pixelated arcade games and clunky consoles to online streaming and now mobile apps, gaming has certainly evolved over the years. Mobile games in particular are leaving their mark on the industry, with recent years seeing them become a $28 billion industry and a community of over 10 million gamers in the UK alone.
More often than not, it’s the simpler apps that entertain us more than their intricate counterparts. Even in the face of deep narratives and enhanced immersive worlds, we love games with seemingly basic concepts and controls – but why?
Let’s explore the psychology behind this trend and why simplicity reigns supreme.
The Appeal of Simplicity
Cognitive ease is at the heart of this popularity, and this is the theory that our brains tend to gravitate toward activities that require less mental effort. In gaming, this translates into straightforward mechanics that don’t demand extensive concentration or problem-solving.
Games like the Candy Crash Saga and Flappy Bird focus on basic, repetitive actions that are easy to grasp but hard to master. Gameplay is inherently satisfying thanks to the relaxing rhythm that can be enjoyed without feeling overwhelmed.
The Limitations of Complexity
Complex apps with extensive rule sets, vast in-game systems, and steep learning curves can sometimes feel more like work than fun. This creates a cognitive overload that frustrates players when they’re bombarded with micro-mechanics and too many missions.
While world-building or strategy games with numerous menus and endless customisation appeal to certain players, many gamers are looking for something that fits easily into a busy lifestyle. Burnout is another risk with more complex titles — when a game feels too demanding, players may eventually disengage.
The Power of Nostalgia
Nostalgia plays a huge role in why adults are drawn to simple games. For many, mobile games evoke the same feelings they experienced as children playing early video games. Simple designs, retro aesthetics and straightforward mechanics harken back to the golden age of gaming.
These games may not have the visual grandeur of modern blockbusters, but their simplicity resonates with older players who grew up during a time when gaming was less about complexity and more about quick, enjoyable experiences.
The Rise of Casual Gaming
As established, gamers are looking for low-commitment entertainment so games like mobile slots have surged among adult players. You simply spin and wait for the result so there’s no need to memorise elaborate rules or invest hours into building up a character or story.
In this way, casual games offer a form of instant gratification that’s perfect for the mobile platform, allowing users to jump in and out of the game whenever they have a spare moment.