Mobile Game Development
Platform constraints and optimization principles.
1. Platform Considerations
Key Constraints
| Constraint | Strategy | |------------|----------| | Touch input | Large hit areas, gestures | | Battery | Limit CPU/GPU usage | | Thermal | Throttle when hot | | Screen size | Responsive UI | | Interruptions | Pause on background |
2. Touch Input Principles
Touch vs Controller
| Touch | Desktop/Console | |-------|-----------------| | Imprecise | Precise | | Occludes screen | No occlusion | | Limited buttons | Many buttons | | Gestures available | Buttons/sticks |
Best Practices
- Minimum touch target: 44x44 points
- Visual feedback on touch
- Avoid precise timing requirements
- Support both portrait and landscape
3. Performance Targets
Thermal Management
| Action | Trigger | |--------|---------| | Reduce quality | Device warm | | Limit FPS | Device hot | | Pause effects | Critical temp |
Battery Optimization
- 30 FPS often sufficient
- Sleep when paused
- Minimize GPS/network
- Dark mode saves OLED battery
4. App Store Requirements
iOS (App Store)
| Requirement | Note | |-------------|------| | Privacy labels | Required | | Account deletion | If account creation exists | | Screenshots | For all device sizes |
Android (Google Play)
| Requirement | Note | |-------------|------| | Target API | Current year's SDK | | 64-bit | Required | | App bundles | Recommended |
5. Monetization Models
| Model | Best For | |-------|----------| | Premium | Quality games, loyal audience | | Free + IAP | Casual, progression-based | | Ads | Hyper-casual, high volume | | Subscription | Content updates, multiplayer |
6. Anti-Patterns
| ❌ Don't | ✅ Do | |----------|-------| | Desktop controls on mobile | Design for touch | | Ignore battery drain | Monitor thermals | | Force landscape | Support player preference | | Always-on network | Cache and sync |
Remember: Mobile is the most constrained platform. Respect battery and attention.