Skillz aims to take a new approach on mobile games
A new mobile games platform for Android developers has launched this week. The platform comes from a company called Skillz, which is a startup based in San Francisco, California, and the platform puts a new twist on mobile games and their monetization. According to Skillz, the platform introduces real-money prizes into mobile games, quite literally enabling consumers to win cash for playing the games making use of the platform.
Gaming continues to change as consumers become more mobile
Mobile games are one of the fastest growing sectors in the game industry. Consumers around the world have expressed both joy and enthusiasm for mobile games that is not entirely common in the game industry, which is constantly awash with criticism and cynicism. As mobile games become more common, developers are beginning to feel the need to separate themselves from the competition. Until recently, most mobile games have been fundamentally similar, if not identical. Skillz believes that real-money prizes may provide developers with an adequate way to establish an innovative presence in their field.
Platform allows for small cash prizes
The money offered through the platform is very real and gamers have the chance to win these funds if they perform well enough. The platform fosters competition with other gamers, pitting them against one another to determine who will win a real-money prize. While the concept seems somewhat gladiatorial, the funds awarded to gamers are very small, most being in 45 cent increments, yet there are abundant chances for gamers to win up to $1,000. Nonetheless, Skillz believes that adding a financial incentive into mobile games could have a powerful effect on consumers.
Platform is not technically set up for gambling
On the surface, the platform may seem bear some resemblance to gambling. Skillz does not, however, enable gambling. The platform allows consumers to place bets on skill-based games. Such games rely less on chance and more on the capabilities of the player. Because the outcome of these games is not determined by simple luck, gambling is considered a non-issue.
