1. Candy Crush Saga: Developed by King in 2012, Candy Crush Saga quickly became a global phenomenon. By combining simple gameplay mechanics with vibrant visuals and challenging levels, the game attracted millions of players worldwide. Its success led to the creation of numerous sequels and spin-offs, making Candy Crush Saga one of the highest-grossing mobile game franchises to date.
2. Angry Birds: Rovio Entertainment introduced the world to Angry Birds back in 2009, and the franchise has since amassed over 4.5 billion downloads. The game’s addictive slingshot mechanics and adorable bird characters captured the hearts of players globally. Expanding beyond the original game, the Angry Birds franchise now encompasses various spin-offs, merchandise, and even an animated movie.
3. Pokémon Go: Released in 2016 by Niantic, Pokémon Go took the world by storm, introducing millions of players to the thrill of augmented reality (AR) gaming. This innovative game allowed players to explore the real world while capturing their favorite Pokémon using their smartphones. The game’s unique concept and nostalgic appeal made it an instant hit, generating over a billion dollars in revenue within its first year.
4. Subway Surfers: Launched in 2012 by Kiloo and SYBO Games, Subway Surfers quickly became one of the most popular endless runner games on mobile devices. With its colorful graphics, smooth gameplay, and frequent updates, the game has retained a massive player base even after almost a decade. Its success led to various collaborations with other franchises and brands, further increasing its popularity.
5. Clash of Clans: Developed by Supercell, Clash of Clans was released in 2012 and remains one of the highest-grossing mobile games of all time. The game’s strategy and multiplayer components captivated players, allowing them to build and defend their own villages, join clans, and engage in epic battles. With an active and dedicated player base, Clash of Clans continues to thrive, generating substantial revenues through in-app purchases.
6. Minecraft: Initially released for PC in 2011, Minecraft expanded to mobile platforms in 2011, gaining immense popularity among gamers of all ages. The game’s open-ended gameplay and limitless creativity attracted a massive following, leading to millions of downloads on mobile devices. The franchise’s success extended beyond gaming, with merchandise, adaptations, and educational versions helping it become one of the best-selling games of all time.
7. Fruit Ninja: Developed by Halfbrick Studios, Fruit Ninja is a simple yet addictive game that tasks players with slashing flying fruits using touch and swipe controls. Released in 2010, the game’s satisfying fruit-slicing mechanics and enjoyable gameplay made it an instant hit. Fruit Ninja’s success led to the release of multiple sequels, merchandise, and even a live-action movie in development.
These mobile game franchises have achieved tremendous success, captivating audiences with their unique gameplay, captivating visuals, and addictive mechanics. They have not only garnered millions of downloads but also revolutionized the way people perceive and engage with mobile gaming. As technology continues to advance and new innovations emerge, it will be exciting to see how these franchises evolve and what new mobile game franchises will rise to fame in the future.
