From the humble Gameboy to the rise of smartphones, gamers have always had an excuse to get out and game. But gaming on the go shouldn’t only be to eliminate boredom or to experience the life of a hero – not when there are numerous benefits of mobile gaming. If you’ve needed that perfect excuse to justify your gaming addiction, then we’ve got several of them.
The Health Benefits Of Mobile Gaming
It sounds like something a gamer would make up but it is true, gaming has benefits. Here is what we know so far about the benefits of mobile gaming:
Relaxation
Firstly, playing a video game can be a quick way to turn your mood around. You may find that playing video games may give you the break you need to relax. The International Journal of Human Computer Studies published a study noting that there was a positive correlation between individuals using games to psychologically detach, relax, and get a sense of control back. So if you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, visiting another world and taking your imagination with it can be a real mood lifter.
Creativity
Video games are also very good at striking that creativity nerve. Video games can spark new ideas, boost a person’s imagination, and help them get in touch with their creative side. Research from the Michigan State University reports that “a study of nearly 500 12-year-olds found that the more kids played video games, the more creative they were in tasks such as drawing pictures and writing stories.” But if you think it’s just children that get all the creativity benefits from games, then think again. In an University of Washington experiment that let the public “play a game in which they model the genetic makeup of proteins”, gamers employed “nonlinear, cooperative, and creative problem-solving techniques” to solve a 10 year old protein structural problem. That problem bested some of the smartest scientists around.
Depression
Depression is on the rise, with young teens most at risk. And while we would not dare suggest what those with depression should do, we do want to highlight a study from Texas A&M International University. The study found that depression and hostile feelings were reduced from playing violent games. Possibly surprising to some, “the results do not support a link between violent video games and aggressive behavior”. It appears that these sorts of games act as a form of mood management to help those with depression. Hmm, time to fire up Call of Duty Black Advanced Modern Warfare Ghosts III…… or whatever version they are up to now.
Despite three great benefits, we’re not suggesting you should throw yourself into your favorite game for 10 hours a day, though. Like all things, it’s about moderation, people.

The True Productivity Behind Mobile Gaming
One of the struggles for many of us is that whilst playing video games can be beneficial, many people feel guilty that they aren’t using their time after work or school to be more productive.
This is where the best benefits of mobile gaming come into play. By having the opportunity to play mobile games on work breaks or during the commute home, we are making the most of otherwise wasted time to unwind.
Of course, if you game on the go to make up time later in the day, your phone or game devices will take a massive battery hit. Perhaps worse, without power, you may miss important calls or emails which certainly will not help to de-stress you.
The solution is simple, take a power bank with you to keep the game going. Not only does it ensure you can still use your phone or tablet, they are also compatible with the Nintendo Switch. As we explored in our power bank guide for charging the Nintendo Switch, you get around 10 extra hours of game time. Think of a power bank like have an extra life handy.
The 1-Up Wrap Up
As we’ve explored, the benefits of mobile gaming include enhancing creativity, assist with relaxation, and even alleviate depressive symptoms. Perhaps even better, filling in pockets of dead time with gaming can ensure you use positively use free time.
What are your thoughts on the benefits of mobile gaming? Do you think you’d find yourself being more productive if you could fit your relaxation time into small pockets throughout the day? Try it and let us know.
Mariokart better than Chrono Trigger? No. Especially when you take into account that it hasn’t aged very well. Mario games are often overrated just because it’s Mario.
Also, Zelda is great but a bit overrated. It’s not the best on the system. Doesn’t deserve to be #1 on so many lists.
I think Super Metroid is probably #1.
Final Fantasy VI is just the best FF there is. Superb gameplay and story. If there was a total remake of this game, with 3D graphics, it would be just incredible. No FF mechanics get even close to this one (magics combination, magic use in and out of battle, about 27 summons, about 100 magic spells, special items combination, many types of status, very cool learning mechanics, each of the 14 allies have about unique combat style and techniques). Only surpassed by Xenogears (mind blowing story!).
I am new to android emulator and i have a question, is there any emulator for android to be intalled on an android device? Like nvidia shield tv? Cause i like some games from google play that are not compatible with nvidia shield tv, so i would like to add an emulator and include those games in there too, also on windows 10 what the best controller compatible with nox cause i dont like playing with mouse and keyboard? Thanks so much
I think my boys play too many games on their phones so I wanted to see if there were any benefits. I didn’t know the more kids played video games, the more creative they were in tasks such as drawing pictures and writing stories. There’s no way I could ever stomp on my kids’ creative abilities if I can help it so I’ll try to moderate their gaming time while still letting them have fun playing together.
Glad to have helped you out, Sarah!
Thank you for stating that mobile gaming can help you to relax. My daughter has been begging me to let her get a game on her phone. After learning about all of the benefits of mobile gaming, I will definitely let me daughter do it.
Very well explained. Mobile games are good for your health and mind. Excess of everything is bad and same applies to mobile games. If played for a reasonable amount of time then this is a very healthy activity.
Thanks for the feedback!
Mobile gaming is the future just look where all the big companies are investing their money.
We should be awar eof the important benefits of mobile gaming. THis would be a huge help. Thanks for sharing this great article.
I agree with your point. Mobile games keep your mind fresh and helps unveil your inner creativity.
Very helpful and Great information, we appreciate advise especially coming from a professional. Thanks again and keep up the great work!
25 is barely enough to do the SNES justice, there are other awesome games on there that could make the list more than some of the titles you had on there, games like Pilotwings, Sim City, ActRaiser 1+2, Soul Blazer, Illusion of Gaia, Terranigma, Lufia 1+2, Demon’s Crest, Secret of Evermore, Skyblazer, The Firemen, Legend of the Mystical Ninja, Stunt Race FX, Breath of Fire 1+2, Dragon View, Zombies ate my neighbors, Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts, Killer Instinct, Lost Vikings 1+2, Shadowrun… So many good memories…