Mobile games are a modern gaming genre that is played on smartphones and tablets. They typically involve a virtual world that the player can navigate using a touchscreen interface, and often use augmented reality to blend the game’s virtual environment with the user’s physical surroundings. This technology also allows for multiplayer gameplay.

In addition to bringing entertainment, fun and excitement to users, mobile games can also be used for educational purposes. They can be used for speech-language pathology, to teach children or adults new useful or healthy habits (such as exercising, preparing meals or brushing teeth), and for acquiring languages and memorizing things (like flashcards). Mobile games can also be multipurpose apps that are not designed as games per se but have similar functionality and are sometimes called gamified apps.

Some games are developed specifically for mobile devices, while others were originally designed for other systems and have been ported to phones. Despite these differences, many mobile games are highly addictive and can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels. Some mobile games are even used for therapeutic purposes such as helping people with anxiety or depression.

One of the main reasons for the popularity of mobile games is that they can be played anywhere and at any time, without the need for a large console or PC. They can be played while waiting for a bus or train, while commuting or during breaks at work or school. Most of these games are characterized by short, easy-to-pick-up sessions that provide quick bursts of fun. Popular examples include Candy Crush Saga, 8 Ball Pool, Temple Run 2 and PUBG MOBILE.

Another characteristic of mobile games is their ability to connect players with other gamers through social communities. These communities can be formed around a shared passion for a particular title or genre, or can simply be made up of friends and acquaintances who enjoy playing the same game. These social connections can be beneficial for users in a number of ways, including providing them with a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of loneliness.

While most mobile games are developed for pure entertainment, there is a growing trend towards creating games with educational or lifestyle benefits. For example, the 2016 game Pokemon GO utilized augmented reality to allow players to locate and capture virtual Pokemon that were hidden in the real world. This kind of gaming can be used to improve cognitive skills or promote healthy lifestyles, and has been shown to reduce stress levels. Moreover, there are even games that have been created for specific age groups such as teenagers or senior citizens, and are designed to be engaging for these particular demographics.