Genres

 

Genre: Simulation

Simulation games are a broad and popular genre in the mobile gaming space, designed to mimic real-world activities, systems, or environments. These games allow players to experience, manage, or experiment with scenarios that reflect aspects of real life, often with a focus on creativity, strategy, and resource management. Can support solo or co-op play. 

Example mobile simulation games with some of the above features: Pet Simulator 99 (Roblox), Idle City (Horizon Worlds), Aura Craft (Roblox), Seapet Go! (Zepeto), Supermarket Simulator (Roblox), Be a Tornado (Roblox), Pizza Kitchen (Horizon Worlds), Gym League (Roblox)

 

Sub-Genre: Tycoon

Tycoon games are a popular subgenre of strategy and simulation games on mobile platforms. In these games, players take on the role of a business owner or manager, tasked with building, expanding, and optimizing a virtual enterprise to maximize profits and achieve success. The gameplay typically revolves around resource management, strategic decision-making, and incremental growth.

Consider including some common features of tycoon games and design advice below:

  • Business Management Simulation
    • Players oversee various aspects of a business or empire, such as hiring staff, setting prices, managing inventory, and expanding operations.
  • Incremental Progression
    • Growth is often gradual, with players unlocking new features, locations, or upgrades as their business becomes more profitable.
    • Make core mechanics easy to understand, but provide depth for players who want to optimize and strategize.
  • Reward Progression
    • Use unlocks, achievements, and visible growth to motivate players and provide a sense of accomplishment.
  • Resource & Financial Management
    • Core gameplay involves managing money, assets, and other resources to ensure profitability and sustainability.
  • Automation & Idle Mechanics
    • Many tycoon games incorporate idle mechanics, allowing businesses to generate income even when the player is not actively playing.
    • Allow for passive income generation, but ensure active play remains rewarding and engaging.
  • Upgrade Systems
    • Players can invest in upgrades to improve efficiency, increase revenue, or unlock new capabilities.
  • Strategic Decision-Making
    • Choices about investments, expansions, and optimizations impact the success of the business.
    • Present players with strategic decisions that have clear impacts on their business’s success.
  • Competition & Market Dynamics
    • Some games feature AI competitors, fluctuating market conditions, or events that challenge the player’s strategy.
  • Customization & Expansion
    • Players can personalize their business, expand into new markets, or diversify their operations.
    • Provide options for players to personalize their business, fostering a sense of ownership.
  • Time-Based Events
    • Special events, limited-time offers, or seasonal content encourage ongoing engagement.
    • Implement events and challenges to drive retention, but avoid overwhelming players with too many simultaneous tasks.
  • Accessible Controls & UI
    • Designed for mobile devices, with intuitive touch controls and clear visual feedback.
    • Ensure controls, menus, and feedback are intuitive and responsive for mobile play.
  • Foster a Sense of Growth and Achievement
    • Make sure players can see and feel the impact of their decisions and investments as their business expands.

Example mobile games with some of the above features: Game Dev Tycoon, RollerCoaster Tycoon Classic, Prison Architect, Papa's Freezeria, Idle Cinema Tycoon, and Car Industry Tycoon: Idle Sim.

 

Sub-Genre: Incremental 

Incremental Simulator games, also known as idle games or clicker games, are a subgenre of simulation and incremental games designed for mobile platforms. These games focus on minimal player interaction—often simple actions like tapping or clicking—to generate resources or currency. As players progress, they unlock upgrades and automation features that accelerate resource generation, allowing the game to continue and evolve even when the player is not actively engaged.

Consider including some common features of incremental simulation games and design advice below:

  • Simple Core Interaction
    • Players perform basic actions (e.g., tapping, clicking) to generate resources.
    • Early gameplay is highly accessible and easy to understand.
  • Resource Generation & Accumulation
    • The main goal is to accumulate resources (money, points, energy, etc.) over time.
    • Resource generation can be manual (active play) or automated (idle play).
  • Balance Active and Idle Play
    • Ensure both manual and automated gameplay are rewarding. Let players feel progress whether they’re actively playing or away
  • Upgrades & Automation
    • Players spend resources to unlock upgrades that increase efficiency or automate tasks.
    • Automation allows the game to progress even when the player is offline.
    • Use upgrades, unlocks, and milestones to guide players and provide a sense of accomplishment.
  • Exponential Progression
    • Growth curves are often exponential, with each upgrade or unlock dramatically increasing resource generation.
    • Make sure progression feels satisfying but not overwhelming. Use soft caps or diminishing returns to maintain balance.
  • Layered Systems
    • Multiple systems (e.g., buildings, units, production chains) interact to create complex progression paths.
    • Add complexity through interacting systems (e.g., production chains, multiple currencies) to keep advanced players engaged.
  • Prestige & Reset Mechanics
    • Some games feature “prestige” or reset systems, where players start over with bonuses, encouraging replayability.
    • Offer meaningful rewards for resets to encourage replayability without making early game repetitive.
  • Minimalistic UI/UX
    • Interfaces are designed for clarity and ease of use, optimized for mobile touchscreens.
    • Keep controls and UI simple and intuitive for all players, including those new to the genre.
  • Passive & Active Play
    • Players are rewarded for both active engagement and passive, idle progression.
  • Monetization
    • In-app purchases for time-savers, boosts, or cosmetic upgrades are common, but core progression is typically accessible for free.
    • Focus on convenience and cosmetic purchases, avoiding pay-to-win mechanics or excessive gating of core content.
  • Progress Feedback
    • Visual and audio cues highlight achievements, milestones, and resource gains to keep players motivated.
  • Encourage Short and Long Sessions
    • Design for both quick check-ins and longer play periods, accommodating different player habits.

Example mobile games with some of the above features: AdVenture Capitalist, Cookie Clicker, Egg Inc., Melvor Idle, Progress Knight, and Realm Grinder.

 

Genre: Roleplay & Avatar Sim

Roleplay & Avatar Sim games are a dynamic genre on mobile platforms, blending the immersive aspects of role-playing games (RPGs) with the creative and expressive features of simulation games. In these games, players create and customize avatars, assume various roles, and interact within virtual worlds that mimic real-life or fictional scenarios. The genre emphasizes personal expression, social interaction, and narrative-driven gameplay, allowing players to shape their own stories and experiences.

 

Example roleplaying games with some of the above features: Brookhaven RP (Roblox), McdonaldWorkRP (Rec Room), Beauty and the Beast (Zepeto), Jailbreak (Roblox), Fury Friends Pet Veterinary (Horizon Worlds), Kawaii’s Valentine Daycare (Horizon Worlds)

Sub-Genre: Dress Up / Life Sim

Dress Up/Life Simulator games are a vibrant subgenre of casual simulation games on mobile platforms. These games center around character customization—especially fashion and aesthetics—while integrating broader life simulation elements such as social interaction, role-playing, and virtual living. Players immerse themselves in a digital world where they can express creativity, build relationships, and manage various aspects of their avatar’s life.

Consider including some common features of Dress Up / Life Sim games and design advice below:

  • Extensive Character Customization
    • Players can personalize their avatar’s appearance, including clothing, hairstyles, accessories, makeup, and more.
    • Often features a wide variety of fashion items, with frequent updates and seasonal collections.
  • Virtual Living & Life Simulation
    • Beyond dress-up, players manage aspects of their avatar’s daily life—such as work, hobbies, relationships, and home decoration.
    • May include routines, goals, and events that mirror real-life experiences.
    • Blend dress-up mechanics with engaging life sim features, such as career progression, relationships, and home decoration.
  • Prioritize Customization Depth
    • Offer a wide range of fashion and aesthetic options, with frequent updates to keep content fresh and appealing.
  • Social Interaction
    • Players can interact with other avatars, form friendships, join clubs, or participate in community events.
    • Features like chat, gifting, and visiting friends’ virtual spaces foster a sense of community.
    • Build robust social features that encourage interaction, collaboration, and friendly competition among players.
  • Role-Playing Elements
    • Storylines, quests, or missions provide context and motivation for customization and life management.
    • Players may make choices that affect their avatar’s relationships, career, or reputation.
  • Encourage Creativity and Expression
    • Provide tools and opportunities for players to showcase their style, participate in contests, and share their creations.
  • Progression & Rewards
    • Unlockable outfits, furniture, and other items through gameplay achievements, events, or in-app purchases.
    • Progression systems such as leveling up, earning currency, or completing collections.
    • Create meaningful progression by using achievements, unlocks, and collections to motivate continued play and reward creativity.
  • Events & Challenges
    • Regular fashion contests, themed events, or limited-time challenges encourage ongoing engagement and creativity.
  • Accessible, Casual Gameplay
    • Designed for short, frequent play sessions with intuitive touch controls and a friendly user interface.
    • Ensure controls and UI are intuitive and welcoming for players of all ages and experience levels.
  • Leverage Events and Updates
    • Regularly introduce new themes, challenges, and items to maintain engagement and excitement.
  • Balance Active and Passive Play
    • Allow for both short, casual sessions and deeper engagement for players who want to invest more time.
  • Monetization
    • In-app purchases for premium fashion items, customization options, or time-saving features.
    • Often includes free-to-play mechanics with optional cosmetic upgrades.
    • Focus on cosmetic and convenience purchases, avoiding pay-to-win mechanics or excessive gating of core content.

Example mobile games with some of the above features: The Sims Mobile, Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp, Disney Dreamlight Valley, Everskies, and Life Makeover.

 

Sub-Genre: Pet Care / Animal

Pet Care / Animal Sim games are a subgenre of simulation games on mobile platforms, often categorized under life simulation. These games immerse players in the experience of nurturing, managing, and bonding with virtual animals. The gameplay mirrors real-world pet care activities, requiring players to attend to their pets’ needs, foster relationships, and sometimes even build a thriving animal community.

Consider including some common features of Pet Care / Animal games and design advice below:

  • Virtual Pet Management
    • Players adopt, name, and care for one or more virtual animals.
    • Core activities include feeding, grooming, playing, training, and health management.
  • Interactive & Nurturing Gameplay
    • Regular interaction is required to keep pets happy and healthy.
    • Neglecting pets may result in visible changes in mood, health, or behavior.
    • Foster learning and growth by allowing pets to develop new skills, personalities, or relationships over time.
  • Customization
    • Options to personalize pets’ appearance, accessories, and sometimes living environments.
    • Unlockable items and upgrades for pets and habitats.
    • Provide a wide range of options for pet appearance, accessories, and habitats.
  • Progression & Growth
    • Pets can grow, learn new tricks, or develop unique personalities over time.
    • Players may unlock new animals, habitats, or features as they progress.
    • Use progression systems, unlocks, and achievements to motivate regular play.
  • Balance Routine and Variety
    • Mix daily care tasks with mini-games, events, and new content to keep gameplay fresh.
    • Use mini-games & activities  (fetch, agility courses, puzzles) to add variety and rewards
    • Activities often tie into pet happiness or skill development.
  • Social Features
    • Players can visit friends’ pets, participate in competitions, or share achievements.
    • Community events or leaderboards may encourage friendly competition.
    • Encourage sharing, visiting, and friendly competition to build community.
  • Emotional Engagement
    • Games foster emotional bonds between players and their virtual pets, often using expressive animations and feedback.
    • Emphasize emotional connection by using expressive animations, sounds, and feedback to help players bond with their pets.
  • Accessible, Casual Gameplay
    • Designed for short, frequent play sessions with intuitive touch controls.
    • Ensure controls and UI are intuitive and welcoming for all ages.
  • Monetization
    • In-app purchases for cosmetic items, premium pets, or time-saving features.
    • Free-to-play mechanics with optional upgrades.
    • Focus on cosmetic and convenience purchases, avoiding pay-to-win mechanics.

Example mobile games with some of the above features: My Talking Tom series, Dogotchi and Bubbu – My Virtual Pet Cat.

Other Genres

Action

Action games are characterized by fast-paced gameplay that tests players’ reflexes, timing, and hand-eye coordination. These games often involve combat, dodging obstacles, or navigating hazardous environments. The focus is on immediate, skill-based challenges, with players frequently required to make split-second decisions. Action games can be single-player or multiplayer, and often feature escalating difficulty, power-ups, and combo systems.

  • Examples: 
    • Subway Surfers, Temple Run, Shadow Fight 3 
  • Key Features:
    • Real-time controls and rapid reactions
    • Combat, dodging, or obstacle navigation
    • Power-ups, combos, and special moves
    • Increasing difficulty and replayability
    • Often includes leaderboards and achievements

Adventure

Adventure games immerse players in narrative-driven experiences, often combining exploration, puzzle-solving, and character interaction. These games encourage players to discover new environments, unravel mysteries, and make choices that influence the story. Adventure games can range from point-and-click mysteries to atmospheric journeys, and often emphasize emotional engagement and world-building.

  • Examples:
    • Monument Valley, The Room, Life is Strange: Before the Storm
  • Key Features:
    • Story-driven gameplay and rich narratives
    • Exploration of diverse, often visually striking environments
    • Puzzle-solving and discovery
    • Character interaction and branching choices
    • Emphasis on atmosphere and immersion

Hangout

Hangout games are designed as virtual social spaces where players can relax, chat, and engage in light activities with friends or other players. These games often feature customizable avatars, open-ended environments, and a variety of mini-games or events. The focus is on social interaction, creativity, and self-expression rather than competition or high-stakes gameplay.

  • Examples:
    • Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp, Avakin Life, Club Cooee
  • Key Features:
    • Social interaction and real-time chat
    • Customizable avatars and environments
    • Mini-games, events, and group activities
    • Emphasis on creativity, relaxation, and self-expression
    • Often includes virtual economies and collectibles

Party Game

Party games are designed for group entertainment, featuring a collection of mini-games, trivia, or challenges that are easy to learn and play. These games are ideal for gatherings, whether in-person or online, and often encourage laughter, competition, and social interaction. Many party games support local or online multiplayer, and are accessible to players of all ages.

  • Examples:
    • Heads Up!, Psych!, Just Dance Now
  • Key Features:
    • Multiple mini-games or trivia challenges
    • Local or online multiplayer support
    • Simple, intuitive controls
    • Social and competitive elements
    • Quick rounds and easy onboarding

Puzzle

Puzzle games challenge players’ logic, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. They range from match-3 games to brain teasers, physics-based challenges, and narrative-driven puzzles. Puzzle games are often designed for casual play, with levels that gradually increase in difficulty and introduce new mechanics. Many puzzle games feature daily challenges, leaderboards, and social sharing.

  • Examples:
    • Candy Crush Saga, Cut the Rope, Monument Valley
  • Key Features:
    • Logic and problem-solving focus
    • Increasing difficulty and new mechanics
    • Variety of puzzle types (match-3, physics, logic, word)
    • Casual, accessible gameplay
    • Progression systems, achievements, and social features

Role Playing (RPG)

RPGs allow players to assume the roles of characters in a fictional world, often featuring deep character progression, branching storylines, and strategic combat. Players develop their characters by leveling up, acquiring new skills, and collecting equipment. RPGs can be turn-based or real-time, and often include party management, exploration, and rich lore. Many mobile RPGs feature gacha mechanics, multiplayer modes, and ongoing events.

  • Examples:
    • Genshin Impact, Final Fantasy Brave Exvius, AFK Arena
  • Key Features:
    • Character development and leveling
    • Story-driven quests and exploration
    • Turn-based or real-time combat
    • Equipment, skills, and party management
    • Rich lore, world-building, and ongoing events

Simulation

Simulation games mimic real-world activities or systems, allowing players to manage, build, or experience scenarios such as running a business, farming, or life management. These games often feature resource management, customization, and open-ended gameplay. Simulation games can be realistic or stylized, and may include social features, progression systems, and creative tools.

  • Examples:
    • The Sims Mobile, SimCity BuildIt, Stardew Valley
  • Key Features:
    • Resource and time management
    • Customization and creativity
    • Realistic or stylized systems
    • Open-ended or goal-oriented play
    • Progression, unlocks, and social features

Sports

Sports games simulate real-world sports, letting players compete in matches, tournaments, or leagues. These games can be realistic, with accurate physics and team management, or arcade-style, focusing on fast-paced action and simplified controls. Sports games often feature multiplayer modes, player progression, and customization.

  • Examples:
    • FIFA Mobile, NBA Live Mobile, 8 Ball Pool
  • Key Features:
    • Realistic or arcade-style gameplay
    • Team and player management
    • Competitive multiplayer and tournaments
    • Skill-based controls and progression
    • Customization and unlockable content

Strategy

Strategy games require players to plan, manage resources, and make tactical decisions to achieve victory. These games can be real-time or turn-based, and often involve base building, unit management, and competitive play against other players or AI. Strategy games reward foresight, adaptability, and efficient resource use.

  • Examples:
    • Clash Royale, Clash of Clans, Plague Inc.
  • Key Features:
    • Resource and base management
    • Tactical planning and execution
    • Real-time or turn-based gameplay
    • Competitive and cooperative modes
    • Progression, upgrades, and events

Survival

Survival games challenge players to endure in hostile environments by managing resources, crafting, and overcoming threats such as hunger, enemies, or the elements. These games often feature open-world exploration, base building, and dynamic challenges that require adaptability and strategic thinking.

  • Examples:
    • Last Day on Earth: Survival, Don’t Starve: Pocket Edition, ARK: Survival Evolved
  • Key Features:
    • Resource gathering and crafting
    • Health, hunger, and stamina management
    • Exploration and base building
    • Dynamic threats and environmental challenges
    • Progression, unlocks, and multiplayer options

Rhythm

Rhythm games test players’ sense of timing and coordination, requiring them to tap, swipe, or perform actions in sync with music or beats. These games often feature a wide variety of songs, difficulty levels, and visual effects that enhance the musical experience. Rhythm games can be competitive or solo, and often include leaderboards and achievements.

  • Examples:
    • Cytus, Beat Fever, Piano Tiles 2
  • Key Features:
    • Music-driven gameplay
    • Timing and reflex challenges
    • Wide variety of songs and difficulty levels
    • Visual and audio feedback
    • Leaderboards, achievements, and social sharing