Android faces crossroads with upcoming consoles

Android mobile gaming may be set for a major paradigm shift

Android mobile gaming has been getting a great deal of attention over the past several months. The Android platform has long been popular in terms of mobile games, but the future of the platform may be decidedly more static. The impending launch of the Ouya and Nvidia’s Project Shield, both of which are stationary consoles based on the Android platform, may have a measurable impact on the Android’s position in the mobile gaming realm.

Android-based consoles equipped with advanced technology

Mobile gaming on the Android has been evolving for several years. While there are still significant gaps between the Android and traditional game consoles, the Android platform has become more capable of supporting advanced games due to the expanding capabilities of new technology. The Nvidia’s Tegra 3 processor, for example, allows the Android to support games that have features that had traditionally been exclusive to consoles. With the coming of Android-based consoles, however, the platform may see its mobile gaming pedigree marred.

Developers may favor consoles over mobile platforms

The Ouya and Project Shield will boast of more advanced technology than what can be found on the most modern Android mobile devices. These consoles will be able to play games that will be a significant step above the capacity of mobile devices, despite being based on the same platform. Thus, game developers will have more freedom in the types of games they can produce for the platform, which may end up leaving Android mobile devices behind in terms of mobile gaming.

Mobile gaming may still thrive despite challenges in the future

Despite the possible risks associated with upcoming Android-based consoles, Android mobile devices are still likely to be popular platforms for mobile gaming. Because the upcoming consoles are significantly less mobile than a smart phone or tablet, gamers may not be inclined to acquire mobile titles for these consoles. Android mobile devices will eventually catch up to the capabilities of their console counterparts, but this may take several months, if not years. Moreover, consumers will likely have to purchase an entirely new device that features this advanced technology, whereas they could purchase a console and not have to worry about making another investment for several years.