In the dynamic world of mobile gaming, where innovation meets entertainment, a select few companies stand out. By 2023, the global Mobile Gaming market had surged to an impressive US$ 91.7 Billion, with 57% of this massive revenue, totaling $55.801 billion, being generated by just 10 top companies in the industry. Notably, the heart of this dominance lies in China, where mobile internet usage surpasses traditional desktop or laptop access among consumers.
Name | Founded | Headquarters | CEO | Revenue | Number of Employees |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Activision Blizzard | July 9, 2008 | California, the United States | - | $7.53 billion (2022) | 17,000 (2023) |
Tencent | November 7, 1998 | Shenzhen, China | Pony Ma | $77.99 billion (2022) | 112,771 (2021) |
Ubisoft Entertainment SA | March 28, 1986 | Saint-Mandé, France | Yves Guillemot | €1.814 billion (2023) | 19,410 (2023) |
Electronic Arts Inc. | May 27, 1982 | California, the United States | Andrew Wilson | $7.42 billion (2023) | 12,900 (2022) |
Zynga | April 2007 | California, the United States | Frank Gibeau | - | 2,952 (2021) |
Nintendo Co. Ltd | September 23, 1889 | Kyoto, Japan | Shuntaro Furukawa | $13.923 billion (2023) | 7,724 (2024) |
Supercell | May 14, 2010 | Helsinki, Finland | Ilkka Paananen | €1.89 billion (2021) | 480 (2023) |
Gameloft SE | December 14, 1999 | Paris, France | Stéphane Roussel | €258M (2017) | 3,600 (2021) |
Garena | 2009 | Singapore | Forrest Li | - | - |
Niantic | 2010 | California, the United States | John Hanke | - | ~800 |
While giants like Sony and Electronic Arts have long dominated console and desktop gaming, their ventures into the mobile platform have been more measured, resulting in comparatively modest revenues. This raises the question: which of these gaming powerhouses truly reign as the largest mobile gaming companies in the world?
In our quest to uncover the champions of the mobile gaming arena, we explore the top 10 best mobile games companies that have demonstrated their prowess with the release of more than 5 games. Join us as we navigate this exciting journey through the most influential players shaping the future of mobile gaming!
The Top 10 Mobile Gaming Companies in the World
1. Activision Blizzard Inc.
Establishment: 2008
Headquarters: California, the United States
Website: https://www.activisionblizzard.com/
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Blizzard (AB) stands as the largest mobile gaming company in the United States. Despite its prominence, less than half of its total revenue is derived from mobile gaming. Similar to many game developers outside of Asia, Activision Blizzard has been cautious in transitioning its immensely popular PC games to mobile platforms. Renowned for iconic franchises such as “World of Warcraft,” “Starcraft,” “Diablo,” and “Call of Duty,” the company only introduced a mobile version of “Call of Duty” in 2019, which swiftly amassed $1.5 billion in revenue, signaling a promising start.
Moreover, Activision Blizzard Inc. actively engages in professional esports competitions and leagues for its flagship video games. This strategic move not only attracts new customers but also fosters brand loyalty and bolsters market presence. In a monumental development, in January 2022, Microsoft unveiled a staggering $68.7 billion bid to acquire AB. Pending approval from global regulators, this acquisition would catapult Microsoft into a dominant position within the mobile gaming industry, reshaping the landscape of digital entertainment.
2. Tencent
Establishment: 1998
Headquarters: Shenzhen, China
Website: https://www.tencent.com/en-us/
Tencent emerges as the undisputed giant of the global Mobile Gaming market. With a staggering $30 billion in mobile gaming revenue in 2023 alone, Tencent stands as one of the largest mobile gaming companies in the world, commanding over a quarter of the segment’s sales. Renowned for its highest-grossing titles like “PUBG Mobile,” “Peacekeeper Elite,” and “Honor of Kings,” Tencent’s mobile games have consistently dominated the Chinese market. Even in the fiercely competitive landscape of 2021, “Honor of Kings” continued its reign, earning an impressive $1.64 billion in revenue.
Tencent’s dominance extends to the realm of free downloads in China, with ownership of 4 out of the top 10 free game apps. Notably, the captivating shooting game “Arena Breakout” reinforces Tencent’s stronghold in this sector. Additionally, Tencent’s multiplayer battle-royale hit, “PUBG Mobile,” has captured audiences in the Western market, generating a remarkable $2.01 billion in revenue from the Apple App Store and Google Play store. Predictably, “PUBG Mobile” also claimed the title of Tencent’s most downloaded mobile game of the year 2021.
3. Ubisoft Entertainment SA
Establishment: 1986
Headquarters: Saint-Mandé, France
Website: https://www.ubisoft.com/en-us/
Ubisoft Entertainment SA stands as a multinational powerhouse in the entertainment and video game sphere, crafting engaging experiences for both portable devices and home consoles. With iconic franchises like Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Just Dance, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six series under its belt, Ubisoft has solidified its position as a leader in the gaming industry.
Beyond its impressive portfolio, the company operates an online platform, providing users with the opportunity to explore its vast array of offerings and make purchases conveniently. Additionally, Ubisoft is forging strategic collaborations with top-tier companies within the gaming industry, aiming to broaden its global reach and fortify its market presence. With a commitment to innovation and creativity, Ubisoft continues to captivate audiences worldwide, delivering immersive gaming experiences that resonate with players of all ages and backgrounds as the best mobile games company in the world.
4. Electronic Arts Inc.
Establishment: 1982
Headquarters: California, the United States
Website: https://www.ea.com/
Headquartered in Redwood City, California, Electronic Arts (EA) emerges as one of the foremost giants in the global Mobile Gaming market. Established in 1982 by Trip Hawkins, EA has solidified its reputation as one of the largest mobile gaming companies in the world through its extensive array of activities and the release of numerous acclaimed titles. With an impressive portfolio that includes Need for Speed, FIFA, The Sims, Apex Legends, Battlefield, Star Wars, and Madden NFL, EA has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the gaming world. Spanning various platforms such as personal computers (PC), PlayStations, Xbox, Nintendo, and mobile devices, EA’s diverse offerings cater to a broad spectrum of gaming enthusiasts.
Moreover, Electronic Arts Inc. has strategically forged partnerships with leading companies and sports leagues, allowing it to expand its product range, tap into emerging markets, and enhance its sales performance. With a legacy of delivering immersive gaming experiences across multiple platforms, EA continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of interactive entertainment on a global scale.
5. Zynga
Establishment: 2007
Headquarters: California, the United States
Website: https://www.zynga.com/
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, Zynga, Inc. stands tall as one of the top companies in the mobile gaming industry, claiming the mantle of the second-largest mobile game company in the United States. Renowned for its creation of the iconic “Farmville” game for Facebook, Zynga has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. While the Facebook version of “Farmville” ceased operation in 2020, mobile iterations of the game continue to captivate audiences.
Following the success of “Farmville,” Zynga’s next breakthrough came with “Words With Friends,” initially launched in 2009. By 2017, it had ascended to become the most downloaded mobile game in the U.S., although its popularity has waned over time. Nevertheless, the sequel remains one of Zynga’s top five most downloaded games to this day. As one of the best mobile games companies, Zynga continues to innovate and captivate audiences worldwide with its diverse portfolio of engaging titles.
6. Nintendo Co. Ltd
Establishment: 1889
Headquarters: Kyoto, Japan
Website: https://www.nintendo.co.jp/
Nintendo Co. Ltd, a multinational powerhouse in the gaming industry, stands among the top companies in the mobile gaming industry. Renowned for its iconic franchises such as Mario Brothers, The Legend of Zelda, and the Pokemon series, Nintendo has secured its place as one of the best mobile games companies globally. Offering a diverse portfolio comprising video game consoles, handheld devices, and an extensive library of beloved titles, Nintendo has continually captivated audiences across generations. Additionally, the company provides online subscription services, enabling users to engage in online gameplay, access classic Nintendo games, and safeguard their data through cloud storage.
In a strategic move to expand its global footprint and attract new customers, Nintendo has collaborated with leading players in the gaming industry. Moreover, the company has embraced the mobile platform, offering a selection of captivating Nintendo mobile games for enthusiasts worldwide to enjoy. According to a Sensor Tower report, Nintendo boasts a lineup of 25 apps, including 14 iOS apps and 11 Android apps.
7. Supercell
Establishment: 2010
Headquarters: Helsinki, Finland
Website: https://supercell.com/
Supercell, headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, stands as one of the most prominent players in the global mobile gaming market, solidifying its position as one of the largest mobile gaming companies in the world. With additional offices in key locations like San Francisco, Tokyo, Seoul, and Shanghai, Supercell has established a formidable presence across continents. Since its inception in 2010, Supercell has garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative and captivating games, each showcasing distinct mobile game art styles. Among its stellar lineup, Clash of Clans shines as the crown jewel, achieving unprecedented success since its release in 2012. Within a mere 3 months, Clash of Clans soared to become the most profitable application in the US App Store, asserting its dominance in the global gaming landscape.
The significance of Supercell’s impact on the global mobile gaming market was further underscored in 2016 when a consortium led by China-based Tencent acquired an 81% stake in the company. This landmark deal not only solidified Supercell’s financial position but also facilitated Tencent’s expansion into North American and European markets, positioning both companies at the forefront of the mobile gaming industry’s evolution.
8. Gameloft SE
Establishment: 1999
Headquarters: France, Paris
Website: https://www.gameloft.com/
Gameloft SE, now a part of Vivendi SE, stands as a pillar in the mobile gaming industry, counted among the top companies in the sector and revered as one of the best mobile games companies globally. Hailing from France, Gameloft specializes in publishing and developing digitally distributed video games tailored for Apple iOS, Android, and Java platforms. With a vast portfolio encompassing various genres like racing, adventure, puzzle, sports, arcades, and strategy, Gameloft captivates audiences worldwide with its diverse offerings. Beyond entertainment, the company is recognized for designing games that serve as effective tools for businesses, incentivizing customer behavior, enhancing engagement, and facilitating employee training.
Driven by a commitment to innovation, Gameloft SE invests heavily in advanced technologies to enrich the gaming experience, expand its product lineup, and pioneer groundbreaking games. Moreover, Gameloft extends its expertise to game consoles, crafting titles for platforms such as Xbox 360, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation 3, Nintendo DS, and more. Operating across 80 countries and boasting a plethora of game art styles, Gameloft SE has solidified its status as one of the top players in the mobile gaming industry, offering immersive experiences that resonate with gamers of all ages. Trusted and respected, Gameloft continues to push boundaries and shape the future of interactive entertainment.
9. Garena
Establishment: 2009
Headquarters: Singapore
Website: https://www.garena.sg/
Garena, a subsidiary of Singapore-based, Ltd., stands as the undisputed titan of the global mobile gaming market, particularly in Southeast Asia. Leveraging its expansive presence in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore, Garena has firmly established itself as one of the largest mobile gaming companies in the world. At the core of Garena’s monumental success lies its flagship title, the immensely popular battle-royale game “Free Fire.” With over 1 billion downloads since its inception in 2017 and an astonishing $3 billion in revenue, “Free Fire” has transcended mere gaming to become a cultural phenomenon. Remarkably, it holds the third-highest number of downloads of any mobile game in history, trailing only Subway Surfers and Candy Crush Saga. This dominance is further accentuated by its consecutive rankings as the most downloaded game in both 2019 and 2020.
Buoyed by the monumental success of “Free Fire,” Garena has unveiled “Free Fire MAX,” an expanded version of the game designed to cater to an even broader audience. Moreover, Garena’s influence extends beyond its flagship title, as it licenses a plethora of popular Western titles for distribution in the Southeast Asian market. These include renowned titles such as “League of Legends,” “Arena of Valor,” “Heroes of Newerth,” and “FIFA Online 3,” further solidifying Garena’s status as a powerhouse in the global gaming arena.
10. Niantic
Establishment: 2010
Headquarters: California, the United States
Website: https://nianticlabs.com/
Niantic, Inc., headquartered in San Francisco, California, stands as a trailblazer among the top companies in the mobile gaming industry, recognized as one of the best mobile games companies globally. Originating as a Google startup in 2010, Niantic transitioned into an independent entity in 2015, solidifying its commitment to pushing the boundaries of interactive entertainment. The company’s journey into the realm of augmented reality (AR) gaming began with the release of its inaugural title, “Ingress,” in 2013, laying the groundwork for its innovative approach to merging virtual elements with the real world. Subsequent iterations of the “Ingress” series further showcased Niantic’s prowess in AR gaming.
However, Niantic’s meteoric rise to prominence came with the launch of “Pokémon Go” in 2016, a collaborative effort with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. The AR phenomenon revolutionized mobile gaming, inviting players to embark on real-world adventures in search of Pokémon characters. The game’s instantaneous global success saw Niantic generating an astounding $10 million per day at its peak in 2016. By 2019, “Pokémon Go” had surpassed 1 billion downloads, further cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon.
Shaping the Future: Top Companies Leading the Global Mobile Gaming Revolution
In conclusion, the landscape of the global mobile gaming market is dominated by a select few, with top companies such as Supercell, Tencent, and Niantic emerging as the largest mobile gaming companies in the world. These industry giants have not only revolutionized the way we play games but have also redefined the boundaries of interactive entertainment.
With innovative titles like Clash of Clans, PUBG Mobile, and Pokémon Go, these top companies have captured the hearts and minds of millions worldwide, cementing their status as the best mobile games companies. Their success is a testament to their unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology.
As the mobile gaming industry continues to evolve, these top companies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future. The ability of the best mobile games companies to adapt to changing trends, harness emerging technologies, and deliver immersive gaming experiences will ensure their continued dominance in the global mobile gaming market. In essence, they stand as the vanguard of innovation, driving the industry forward and inspiring countless gamers around the world.
Top companies in the mobile gaming industry, such as Supercell, Tencent, and Niantic, distinguish themselves through a combination of innovative game design, technological prowess, and a keen understanding of player preferences. These companies consistently deliver high-quality gaming experiences that captivate audiences worldwide, setting them apart as leaders in the field.
The largest mobile gaming companies in the world play a significant role in shaping the global mobile gaming market. Through their groundbreaking titles and strategic partnerships, they not only drive market growth but also influence industry trends and standards. Their contributions extend beyond revenue generation to fostering creativity, innovation, and community engagement within the mobile gaming ecosystem.
With top companies like Supercell, Tencent, and Niantic leading the way, the future of mobile gaming promises to be dynamic and exciting. We can anticipate continued advancements in augmented reality, multiplayer experiences, and cross-platform integration, as well as the emergence of new genres and gameplay mechanics. As these companies push the boundaries of what's possible in mobile gaming, players can look forward to immersive experiences that redefine the way we play and interact with games on the go.