The skill
Mobile game development principles.
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.