Web browser games have a rich history dating back to the late 1990s. We all remember sitting down to play Miniclip on an early desktop, but their popularity soon declined in the early 2010s with the rise of mobile gaming.
Mobile gaming has since taken over as the most dominant device, with it now being more popular than console. But, browser-based gaming is far from dead, and is in fact making a resurgence thanks to technological advancements. While you may be used to arcade games being on mobile, you can play bubble shooter without an app as easily as you can check the news.
Technological AdvancementsÂ
The advent of HTML5, WebGL and WebAssembly have really kicked up the possibilities for web gaming. It’s enabling developers to create games with better graphics and performance, and cut down on development time.
These technologies allow for improved cross-platform compatibility, meaning games can be played seamlessly across devices, from desktops to smartphones. This is important, because before now it wasn’t responsive enough to reliably play web-based games on mobile, and so the two-in-one audience has made it more lucrative.
Faster internet speeds have made the experience smoother, and cloud gaming has something to say about that too. It allows players to stream games directly in their browsers without the need for powerful hardware. While not a true web-based game, it’s worth considering because from the user’s perspective, you can actually play them inside a browser.
Accessibility and ConvenienceÂ
One advantage of these browser games is their accessibility. Players can play these games without the need for downloads – no installations or any resistance between the moment of wanting to play, and finally experiencing it. In most cases, there isn’t even a login.
This eliminates storage concerns (although they’re not big concerns with modern smartphones) and makes it easy for players to pick up and play games in short sessions. The cross-platform nature of browser games means that players can seamlessly switch between devices, enjoying the same game on their desktop, smartphone or tablet.
Ultimately, it was being internet-dependent that held back web games, but this is less of a concern as coverage improves around the world.
Indie Developer OpportunitiesÂ
Browser games present unique opportunities for indie developers. Compared to native apps, browser games have far smaller development costs – they’re quick to make and easy to publish. This allows indie developers to bring their creative visions to life without the large investments, and this actually makes them more experimental, because failing has a lower cost. Because of this experimental environment, they’re more likely to go viral on places like Hacker News than large mobile apps, which tend to be quite safe and repetitive.
The ability to iterate on games quickly is another advantage, as developers can respond to player feedback and make improvements in real time. Browser games also have the potential for viral growth through social media shares and embeds, so exposure comes cheaply too.
Unique Multiplayer ExperiencesÂ
Browser games are using the latest web technologies to create unique multiplayer experiences. Real-time multiplayer functionality means that players can compete (or collaborate) with global friends, much like the 8 Ball pool game and online chess. But, these are going a step further into large-scale, massively multiplayer online (MMO) experiences.
ConclusionÂ
As browser games continue to improve, they’re surprisingly well-positioned. They lure us in with their nostalgia, but keep us playing thanks to the improvements in graphics, performance, accessibility, and sociability.
