Mobile app development services involve creating applications that run on mobile and use its network capabilities for providing varied services. The process requires creating installable software with needed back-end services to allow accessing data through APIs. There are various types of mobile applications, including educational applications, social media mobile apps, lifestyle mobile apps, productivity applications, game applications, and more.
In this blog, we will discuss mobile game applications in detail. According to a report, the mobile gaming market is expected to reach US$420.386 billion by 2026. Thus, companies must hire proficient game developers who are well-versed with various game development stages to deliver the code well and collaborate with design, testing, localization teams, and quality assurance teams to make the game a success.
Also, there are other things to consider while building a successful game application, such as scalability, where a mobile app developer must consider screen sizes, hardware requirements, and multiple other aspects.
So, before you look for dedicated mobile app developers for the new game you are planning to launch, let’s look at the various stages involved in the mobile game development process:
Planning
This stage includes brainstorming the key features, characters, storyline, tech stack, etc. This is one of the most complex phases of game development, but it is imperative to set the proper foundation and assess the project’s feasibility.
Pre-production
Next comes the pre-production phase. At this stage, writers, designers, engineers, project leads, and other department members come together to see the scope of ideas planned in the first step.
Production
This is one of the most challenging stages where the ideas are put into action. During this time, the design and development teams work on the character models, level designs, writing source code, audio effects, and setting game rules. Also, they define the game mechanics, balance, pacing, gameplay, and other assets.
Testing
This is one of the essential stages where every feature and mechanic is tested for quality control before the alpha or beta release. Some assumptions based on which a tester can guide his efforts include:
- Looking for problematic areas or levels
- Proper rendering of all the elements of the game on screen
- Looking for loopholes
- Does the character get stuck anywhere anytime?
- How’s the character and dialogue flow in the lore?
Pre-launch
At the pre-launch stage, publishers work hard to elevate their marketing efforts. This can include exclusive previews at gaming conventions, conferences, and other gaming communities.
Launch
During this stage, the game sees the light of the day. This release may still contain bugs or issues usually resolved with future updates and patch releases.
Post-launch
Here the game starts generating some sales. At this stage, developers may rely on players to submit bug reports. Parallelly, the developers provide software updates for game balancing patches and new downloadable content, or DLCs.
Skills required for a mobile app developer
While you might compare mobile application development with web application development, a developer must specialize in special functions native to the platform(Android, iOS). Mobile app development requires a specific skill set. Not everyone with programming knowledge can jump in and create your app.
Here, we are listing specific skills required for mobile app developers:
Mobile user interface design
With plenty of apps released daily in the app store, the app developers cannot rely simply on prompt back-end functionality. A high-quality user interface has a significant impact on captivating the user’s attention. A worthwhile design maintains a healthy interaction between the user and the software. An app that is easy to use with a clear design and runs smoothly eventually ranks well in the app stores.
Cross-platform app development
A mobile app developer should also know about cross-platform app development. This involves having a firm understanding of how to generate intermediate code that is non-native to the device and can run on multiple platforms. This expands a developer’s career possibilities and provides for a bright profile. This goes in contrast to native-only developers who specialize in programming for native iOS and Android platforms only.
Back-end computing
A mobile developer should also know back-end requirements such as security, database management, hardware interaction, and memory allocation.
Modern language programming skills
A developer should also have a working knowledge of common programming languages (C#, Java), web development languages (HTML, CSS), and APIs (Apple iOS, Android, and Windows Mobile).
Besides, they should know how to implement cross-platform mobile suites like Antenna and AMP (Accounting-Management-Promotion).
Business compatibility
Business capability translates to the expertise required to win over the competition. Not only should a developer know how to program and create a praisable user experience, but they should also know how to market it well.
Wrapping Up
Now that you are aware of the skills required for a mobile app developer, you can curate your internal tests based on the above pointers. Or, you can use job portals, LinkedIn, communities, and other sourcing platforms to find the right talent. Alternatively, you can contact a mobile app development provider that can cater to your business needs.
However, to select the right mobile app development company for your custom app development, you should know whether the company follows the industry’s best trends and practices, including using the latest technologies (such as AI, ML, etc.).
Also, the company should be able to deliver starting from the concept to the application deployment. You can also enquire about the development approaches they support: native mobile applications, cross-platform native mobile applications, hybrid mobile applications, and progressive web applications.
Other factors to keep in mind include team experience, portfolio of previous works, online reviews, security of the app idea, the effectiveness of delivery management, app designing standards, trusted quality assurance, and testing measures.
On an ending note, choosing the services from the right mobile app development company is a big investment. Therefore, consider the above pointers before investing in finding the right talent.
