How Small Games Are Making a Big Impact on the Gaming Scene

When many of us think of video games, we think of the AAA blockbusters that are almost indistinguishable from movies. These games put us front and center of their worlds and deliver an experience that's unmatched by any other form of entertainment. As good as these games are, many of us sometimes look back on the simpler days of gaming with fondness. Sometimes, you just don't have the time or the energy to commit to a game that could take weeks or even months to play from beginning to end. On those occasions, many people turn to small games.

Small games don't fit easily into a predefined box. Still, they typically have a few characteristics that make them easy to identify, such as being ultra-lightweight browser-based games or indie microgames. A few of these games have gained significant traction with gamers, turning them into unexpected hits. While they're modest compared to many of the games we're used to playing, their unique designs and the new perspectives they bring are often a welcome change from the routine. In this article, we look at how these small games are having an outsized impact on the gaming world.

What Are Small Games?

Unlike the big-budget studios that make some of the most popular games, small games are typically produced by independent creators or small studios with limited budgets and resources. However, not all small games fit easily into that definition. For example, online casinos have made a name for themselves in recent years, providing gamers with an alternative to brick-and-mortar establishments for playing their favorite games. Casino games share a lot in common with other small games: many of them are easy to learn, they can be played in short bursts, and they're fun. A game like roulette, which has several distinct variants, doesn't have a steep learning curve and can be played relatively quickly. All players have to do is place bets on numbers, colors, or ranges, and the spin of the wheel determines the outcome.

Casino games aren't the only small games; others include the title Flappy Bird, known for its simple tap-to-fly mechanics, and the puzzle game 2048, which challenges players to merge tiles to reach the highest number. One thing most small games have in common is the constrained parameters developers have to work with to create a game that works well and appeals to a broad audience. While it may seem counterintuitive, these constraints have helped drive innovation, forcing developers to come up with creative solutions and special mechanics. Game jams, where developers create games within a short period of time, are where the magic often happens. During these sessions, developers are encouraged to experiment and come up with new concepts that might not emerge in traditional settings.

The Accessibility Advantage

Games that can be played in web browsers and mobile devices are popular for a reason: anyone with a device that connects to the internet can access them. These games don't require sophisticated gaming setups and work with minimal system requirements. Gamers don't have to worry about downloading big files or investing in high-end software to play these titles. This low barrier to entry is why these games often attract a broad and diverse audience, including casual and non-traditional gamers. These games load quickly and have straightforward gameplay mechanics, all of which contribute to their appeal.

The Big Influence of Small Games on the Industry

As one would imagine, as big gaming studios look in from the outside at the success of small games, many have been inspired to attempt to replicate their success. Some large developers have gone so far as to reevaluate their approach and have started to emphasize creativity and simplicity in the development process instead of solely focusing on scale. Many have explored alternative monetization strategies and ways to make development more sustainable. Indie gaming and experimental projects highlight how the industry has moved towards recognizing the value small games bring. While traditional big-budget games will always have their place, small games are finding their home in the gaming industry as well.

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