Latest news with #mobilegaming
CNET
21 hours ago
- Business
- CNET
The Best Strategy Mobile Game I Ever Played Just Came Back After a Decade
Battle Nations, a free-to-play turn-based military strategy game for phones developed by studio Z2Live, was taken from us too soon on Sept. 28, 2016. And I'm obviously not the only person who feels like the game didn't have enough time in the sun, because a new version of the game came back to mobile game stores on May 30, 2025 -- nearly a decade after the servers shut down for the last time. I formed a Battle Nations guild with my friends back in middle school to take on some of the game's raids, but we were always severely under-leveled and outnumbered by our enemies. Battle Nations was released during the heyday of mobile gaming, completely revolutionizing what I believed the platform could do. Endless runners like Jetpack Joyride and Subway Surfers gave way to Battle Nations afternoons, filled with planning our group conquests, and it was glorious. The new iteration of the game, called Battle Nations Rewritten, was completely remade by a group of fans who came together to form their own game studio, Madrona Games. This team of developers has spent the last several years ironing out legal proceedings with the game's original publisher, King, to gain the rights to use the Battle Nations trademark. Madrona's developers honed their skills with the release of another game, Tank Tactics, while publishing beta builds for their Patreon subscribers. A tight-knit community of Battle Nations fans approached a major corporation with their own take on an old property and didn't have their fan project taken down. Z2Live was acquired by King in 2015, which is a company that was acquired by Activision Blizzard in 2016, which itself was later acquired by Microsoft in 2023 -- and despite this, Madrona Games was able to make peace with Battle Nations' parent company regardless of large gaming corporations' penchant for suing fan projects using their IP. Now Battle Nations is back in all its former glory, allowing a whole new generation of players to build an outpost and expand their military forces in the name of the emperor. The native wildlife is positively prehistoric and downright dangerous. Madrona Games/Screenshot by CNET What is Battle Nations about? Battle Nations was lampooning fascistic empires before Helldivers 2 made it cool. You're the captain of the 95th Rifle Company of the Imperial Army, a once-renowned military presence that is starting to crack under siege from a rebel army. As flames of conflict approach the capital, the teenage emperor sends your unit to a far-flung continent in search of resources to create a new superweapon. It's your job to grow a budding outpost into a massive military complex, fighting off rebels, vicious local fauna and gas-mask clad warriors that your chauvinistic lieutenant has deemed as "raiders." Your allies are all pretty atrocious people, but their ignorance is constantly made the butt of the joke in Battle Nations' narrative writing. Raiders and rebels are consistently better outfitted and more competent than your team, which forces you to work even harder to stay combat-ready as you advance further into the game. Part city-building simulator and part grid-based tactical battler, Battle Nations appeals to many different types of strategy gamers. I personally enjoyed crafting zany units and utilizing them to defend my outpost as I grew my city-state's economy. Once players reach a high enough level, they'll be able to learn from raider allies to master mammoths and raptors, conduct medical experiments to turn their basic units into zombies and even hire the Team Fortress 2 mercenaries in a bizarre crossover with Valve. (The launch trailer seems to suggest that the famed mercenaries will return in the fan version.) Battle Nations base building will make city sim players feel right at home. Madrona Games/Screenshot by CNET These advances are only made possible through economic prosperity and strong supply lines. Players need to create warehouses, expand their borders to resource deposits and build facilities to process raw materials into stronger forms if they want to build the best units. I've never been gifted at planning out my builds, but the best urban planners will find a great framework to create efficient (and pretty-looking) army bases. As your outpost grows strong enough, you'll start to supplement your foot troops with tanks, helicopters and other heavy vehicles. I remember feeling like I was a true military power by the time Battle Nations shut down. I can't wait to dive back into Battle Nations' take on turn-based combat, even if it means I have to start all over with the bog-standard riflemen. As Battle Nations Rewritten grows and develops, player-versus-player occupations will likely return. Madrona Games/Screenshot by CNET What's next for Battle Nations Rewritten? The new Battle Nations isn't shipping with every multiplayer feature included in the original game quite yet. Madrona Games has promised that subsequent updates will restore many of the social elements missing from the launch build. That means the friends list and guilds will be added soon. One of my favorite features from the original Battle Nations was the ability to let an ally raid resource deposits on your outpost to help them resupply materials they were low on, and it'll be great to see that collaborative gameplay make a return. Boss strikes are also on the docket for a swift return, allowing players to combine their military might to chip away at a boss enemy's health bar (and earning sweet rewards if they're able to fully defeat it). Beyond returning features, the developers plan to add "new narrative arcs, seasonal operations, time-limited events and more to keep the world of Battle Nations evolving." Madrona Games' Battle Nations Rewritten is launching on every platform that the original Battle Nations was on. That means you're able to download the game from the App Store, Google Play Store and Steam for free now.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Markets, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2030 - Explosive Growth in Mobile Gaming Sector, Smartphones Dominate with 60% Revenue Share
Key opportunities in the Saudi Arabia electronic games market include exploiting the surge in mobile gaming, driven by high smartphone and internet penetration. The growing popularity of eSports and online multiplayer games offers potential, especially in urban centers like Riyadh, supported by government initiatives under Vision 2030. Saudi Arabian Electronic Games Market Dublin, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to offering. The Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market was valued at USD 4.59 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 11.06 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 15.80% The Saudi Arabia electronic games market has witnessed significant growth from 2020 to 2030, driven by increasing internet penetration, a young and tech-savvy population, and rising disposable incomes. The market is segmented by platform, player type, distribution channel, and region. Platforms include smartphones, tablets, laptops, console games, and portable gaming devices, with smartphones dominating due to their widespread accessibility and affordability. Console games are also gaining traction, supported by the popularity of high-quality gaming experiences. By player type, the market is divided into single-player and multi-player games, with multi-player games experiencing rapid growth due to the rise of online gaming communities and competitive eSports. Distribution channels are categorized into online and offline, with online platforms, including app stores and digital downloads, leading the market due to convenience and a wide variety of options. Offline channels, such as retail stores, remain relevant for physical game purchases and consoles. Regionally, urban centers like Riyadh and Jeddah are the primary hubs for gaming activity, driven by higher disposable incomes and better infrastructure. Key growth factors include government initiatives to promote the gaming industry, such as the Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and foster innovation in the entertainment sector. Additionally, the increasing popularity of eSports and gaming tournaments is further propelling market growth. Key Market Drivers Saudi Arabia has been undergoing a massive digital transformation as part of its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. This transformation has led to a surge in internet penetration and smartphone adoption across the country. With over 90% of the population having access to the internet and a high smartphone ownership rate, the demand for mobile gaming has skyrocketed. Smartphones and tablets have become the most accessible platforms for gaming, especially among the younger population. Internet penetration in Saudi Arabia is 98%, with smartphone penetration at 95%. Mobile gaming accounts for 60% of the total gaming revenue in the region. Additionally, the rollout of 5G technology has further enhanced the gaming experience by enabling faster download speeds and seamless online multiplayer gaming. This digital shift has created a fertile ground for the growth of the electronic games market, making it one of the most significant drivers. Key Market Challenges Saudi Arabia's conservative cultural and regulatory environment poses a challenge to the electronic games market. While the government has been actively working to diversify the economy and promote the entertainment sector, certain cultural sensitivities and regulatory restrictions still exist. For instance, games with content deemed inappropriate or inconsistent with local values may face bans or require significant modifications. This limits the variety of games available to consumers and could deter international game developers from entering the market. Additionally, the lack of a clear regulatory framework for online gaming and digital content distribution can create uncertainty for businesses, impacting investment and innovation in the sector. Key Market Trends Esports has emerged as a major trend in Saudi Arabia, transforming gaming from a casual hobby into a professional and competitive industry. The Saudi government has been actively promoting esports as part of its Vision 2030 initiative to diversify the economy and create new entertainment opportunities. The establishment of the Saudi Esports Federation and the hosting of international tournaments, such as Gamers8, have positioned the country as a regional hub for competitive gaming. Esports has also gained significant traction among the youth, with many aspiring to become professional gamers or content creators. This trend has led to increased investments in gaming infrastructure, including esports arenas, training facilities, and sponsorship deals, further boosting the market. Report Scope Key Market Players Sony Corporation Microsoft Corporation Apple Inc. Google LLC (Alphabet Inc.) Electronic Arts Inc. NetEase Inc. Ltd. Tencent Holdings Ltd. Ubisoft entertainment Square Enix Co. Ltd. Blizzard Entertainment Inc. Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Platform: Smartphones Tablets Laptops Console Games Portable Gaming Devices Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Player: Single player Multi-player Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Distribution Channel: Online Offline Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Region: Western Northern & Central Eastern Southern Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 82 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $4.59 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $11.06 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 15.8% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Saudi Arabian Electronic Games Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Android Authority
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Android Authority
Samsung prepares Game Booster for One UI 8 with huge feature-packed update
Hadlee Simons / Android Authority TL;DR Samsung has released a major update for the Game Booster app. The update brings over 10 new features, including Game Sound, Max boost, Respawn timer, and 4D Vibration. A few of the new features mentioned in the changelog may not be available yet. Samsung's Game Booster app is a useful tool for hardcore mobile gamers. It allows you to change various settings for the purpose of optimizing your gaming experience. While it already offers numerous options for tweaking everything from performance to battery life, Samsung has now stuffed the app with even more features. Likely in preparation for One UI 8, the Game Booster app has just received a significant update (version 7.0.51.13) that introduces over 10 new features. First spotted by X (formerly Twitter) user Galaxy Techie, these features include AI Mute, Bluetooth microphone support, Game Sound, Dash notifications, Game Controller, Max boost, Respawn timer, Super Microphone, Virtual Gamepad, Voice Changer, and 4D Vibration. Max boost If you have updated the Game Booster app, 'Max boost' will be the first new feature you see when you open the app. It appears as a toggle at the bottom of the welcome screen. The app doesn't explain what this feature does, but it does offer a message that says, 'In some games, your phone could use more battery or get a little hotter than normal.' Presumably, toggling this feature on will adjust your settings for maximum performance during gaming. Respawn timer and Game Sound When you go into the settings page, you'll see new additions like 'Game Sound' and 'Respawn timer.' According to the description, Respawn timer will display a floating timer on the screen so you know how long it will take before you can rejoin your game. As for Game Sound, it works just as you would think. It gives you control over whether or not you hear the sound of the game. However, it also offers an 'AI Mute' option that allows the device to 'Identify the game screen, implement intelligent mute and volume recovery when you launch the game.' We imagine this means AI Mute will mute game audio when it detects that you're in a game but not actively playing. Dash notifications, Super Microphone, and Voice changer If you tap on the Reorder tools section in the settings page, there are three new options waiting for you. The first of these new options is 'Dash notifications.' The description for this feature reads, 'Stay updated while you're immersed in your game with notifications that disappear after crossing the screen.' With this setting, notifications will appear semi-transparent in a pill-shaped casing that slides across the screen before disappearing. You'll be able to adjust how fast the notification moves and its transparency. Next up, there is a feature called 'Super Microphone.' This feature provides two options: 'Always Keep Mic Available In Game' and 'Switch Bluetooth Mic On.' The former allows you to continue using the microphone for your game, even if other applications are using it. While the latter allows you to turn on the microphone of a connected Bluetooth device to improve voice calls. Just as its name suggests, 'Voice changer' allows you to change the sound of your voice. There are multiple types of voices to pick from, including Little girl, Middle-aged man, Sci-fi horror, Ethereal, Warbling, Lo-fi landline, Baby, and Robot. The changelog also mentions the addition of 'Game Controller,' 'Virtual Gamepad,' and '4D Vibration.' However, it seems that these features are currently inaccessible at the moment. It's unclear if these features require the installation of One UI 8. Regardless, this is a pretty hefty update that will give gamers even more ways to customize their gaming experience on Galaxy devices. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 19 (iOS 26) New GAMING App & More LEAKED
Apple's highly anticipated iOS 19 update is sparking widespread interest, with leaks hinting at a range of new features and enhancements. From a dedicated gaming app to entertainment upgrades and system-wide refinements, this update could redefine how you interact with your Apple devices. Here's an in-depth look at the rumored features and their potential impact on your daily experience in a new video from iReviews. Watch this video on YouTube. Transforming Mobile Gaming One of the most talked-about leaks is the introduction of a dedicated gaming app, designed to serve as a centralized hub for all gaming activities. This app is expected to streamline how you access, manage, and discover games, offering a more cohesive gaming experience. The rumored features of this app include: Advanced graphics rendering for more immersive and visually stunning gameplay for more immersive and visually stunning gameplay Higher frame rates to ensure smoother and more responsive gaming to ensure smoother and more responsive gaming Enhanced compatibility with external controllers, making it easier to play console-quality games on your device These updates aim to cater to both casual gamers and dedicated enthusiasts, positioning iOS 19 as a leader in mobile gaming. Whether you're exploring new titles or revisiting old favorites, this feature could elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Core Operating System Enhancements Beyond gaming, iOS 19 is expected to deliver significant improvements to the operating system, focusing on speed, efficiency, and usability. These updates are designed to make your device more responsive and reliable, making sure a smoother overall experience. Key enhancements may include: Faster app launches , reducing the time you spend waiting for applications to open , reducing the time you spend waiting for applications to open Improved multitasking capabilities , allowing you to switch between apps more seamlessly , allowing you to switch between apps more seamlessly Optimized battery performance, helping your device last longer throughout the day For users, these changes could translate into a more efficient workflow, whether you're managing tasks, streaming media, or simply browsing the web. The focus on performance ensures that your device keeps up with your daily demands. Enhanced Entertainment Features Entertainment is another area where iOS 19 is rumored to deliver substantial upgrades. Leaks suggest that Apple Music and Apple TV will receive updates aimed at improving both content consumption and creation. Expected features include: Personalized recommendations tailored to your listening and viewing habits tailored to your listening and viewing habits Improved streaming quality , offering sharper visuals and clearer audio , offering sharper visuals and clearer audio New tools for content creators, making it easier to edit and share media directly from your device These enhancements could make your device a more versatile platform for enjoying music, movies, and other forms of entertainment. Whether you're a casual listener, a movie enthusiast, or a budding creator, iOS 19 promises to enrich your experience. Refinements in Performance and User Experience iOS 19 is also expected to introduce system-wide performance optimizations and user interface refinements. These updates aim to make your interactions with Apple devices more intuitive and efficient. Key improvements may include: Enhanced accessibility features , making sure a more inclusive experience for all users , making sure a more inclusive experience for all users Expanded personalization options , allowing you to tailor your device to better suit your preferences , allowing you to tailor your device to better suit your preferences Reduced system latency, improving the responsiveness of apps and system functions These refinements are designed to enhance the overall reliability and usability of iOS devices, making sure that they remain intuitive and enjoyable to use. Speculated Features and Ecosystem Integration While Apple has yet to confirm the full scope of iOS 19's features, leaks suggest several additional updates that could further enhance the user experience. These rumored features include: Expanded widget functionality , allowing greater customization of your home screen , allowing greater customization of your home screen Advanced privacy settings , giving you more control over how your data is used , giving you more control over how your data is used Improved ecosystem integration, making sure seamless connectivity between your iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices If these features are included, they could make iOS 19 a more cohesive and secure platform, strengthening Apple's ecosystem and providing a more unified experience across devices. Looking Ahead iOS 19 is shaping up to be a significant update, with a strong emphasis on gaming, entertainment, and user experience. The rumored introduction of a dedicated gaming app, combined with system-wide enhancements and entertainment upgrades, highlights Apple's commitment to innovation and user satisfaction. While the full details of iOS 19 remain under wraps, the leaked features offer an exciting glimpse into what could be a more dynamic, efficient, and engaging operating system. As more information becomes available, you'll gain a clearer understanding of how these updates will enhance your daily interactions with Apple devices. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on iOS 19. Source & Image Credit: iReviews Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geek Girl Authority
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Girl Authority
GIGAPOCALYPSE Is Free in the Mobile Epic Games Store
The Mobile Epic Games Store is now giving away free game titles every week; all you have to do is remember to collect them. This week, embrace your inner Kaijū monster and destroy everything you see in Gigapocalypse. Gigapocalypse. Act quickly because this loot is only free via the Mobile Epic Games Store for a limited time. For a while now, the Epic Games Store has been giving gamers free PC titles and in-game loot every single week. Now, mobile gamers can get in on the freebie action using the Mobile Epic Games Store app. All you have to do is download the app, log into your Epic Games account (or create a new one), and get the goods. Remembering to claim your freebies is the hardest part. Luckily, Geek Girl Authority will be there to remind you every week. RELATED: Love mobile games? Check out our Mobile Game Monday adventures Gigapocalypse Gigapocalypse (2021) is a 2D side-scrolling action game developed by Goody Gameworks and published by Headup Games. Play as a customizable Kaijū monster and level everything in sight. Choose from nine giga monsters, each with unique abilities, skill trees, mutations, and manifold skins. Then, rampage your way through six detailed stages set in Earth's past, present, and future. From a Wild West town to a medieval kingdom, each level features themed buildings and enemies to destroy. It isn't all about destruction. Complete quests and care for your Kaijū in Tamagotchi-style minigames. Find secrets to upgrade your monster and their home. Unlock cute but deadly pets that will join you on your journey. Gigapocalypse is an homage to the Kaijū classics, such as Godzilla , King Kong , and Rampage. So expect fast-paced pixelated arcade action accompanied by a heavy metal soundtrack. RELATED: May's Most Anticipated Video Games Gigapocalypse is free in the Mobile Epic Games Store until May 29 at 10 am ET. Mobile Game Monday: SAGRADA
