What do Sony (NYSE: SNE), Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ: ATVI), counter culture leader Leaf Mobile, Inc. (TSXV: LEAF) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) all have in common? They are making some of the best games in the market today.
If there’s one thing that has flourished during the COVID-19 lockdown, it’s the world of video and mobile games. All over the world, people turned to playing games as a way to pass the time and also entertain themselves while being cooped up inside during a pandemic. Games such as Doom Eternal, God of War, Call of Duty, Half-Life: Alyx, and Cheech & Chong Bud Farm from counter culture leader Leaf Mobile, Inc. (TSXV: LEAF) have captured the attention of gamers globally.
And rightly so—the first half of the year saw game after game break records in terms of downloads and consumer spending. Mobile gaming is still the leading platform based on April’s data, which achieved 1.2 billion mobile downloads at its weekly best. Consumer spending is also more robust than ever, with a 59% growth per The State of Mobile 2020 report.
Top PC games to download
Although many have turned to consoles these days, gaming on a personal computer is still a worthwhile experience, as PCs offer more flexibility and power. Thought it might be a more expensive machine, the moddability is still unparalleled and can give players the satisfaction that other platforms don’t have.
1. DOOM Eternal
A direct sequel to DOOM, which was released by game developer id Software in 2016, DOOM Eternal is one of the best games out in the market right now in terms of first-person combat. Fight your way through various dimensions while meeting new and old demons that have taken over the universe. As a one-man army destined to vanquish these monsters, you can equip yourself with new abilities and powerful weapons. The cinematography and soundtrack is out of this world, too.
2. Elite Dangerous
If you have ever wanted to scour the Milky Way galaxy, then this is the game for you. Frontier Developments really went out of the way to simulate our star systems. Travel into the future of the year 3300 and engage in player-to-player combats. You can also choose to save fellow players or just ride to the edge of the universe.
Best new mobile game on iOS and Android
While Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ: ATVI)’s Candy Crush is still at the top of the charts and are adored by millions, there’s a new game that has caught the eye of many.
Cheech & Chong Bud Farm
Counter culture games leader Leaf Mobile, Inc. (TSXV: LEAF), is having a good year despite the odds, after recently launching Cheech & Chong Bud Farm last 4/20 (April 20th). Starring the longtime funny men and weed advocates Richard “Cheech” Marin and Tommy Chong, the game was introduced online with the support of fellow comics Craig Robinson (The Office), Wilmer Valderrama (That 70s Show), Dana White (UFC), and Kevin Smith (Jay & Silent Bob). The global premier of the game quickly saw thousands of downloads, putting the game on the radar of “Best New” mobile games lists worldwide.
It is one of the successful weed games from Leaf Mobile’s Bud Farm franchise, earning $0.1 million in revenue after ten days of launch. CEO Darcy Taylor is glad to have exceeded expectations: “All our key metrics from organic downloads, sessions, DAU to ARPDAU were incredibly strong. When we compare user segment results to our other assets spanning the last decade, the trajectory is truly encouraging.”
Indeed, Leaf Mobile may not be in the cannabis business, but its vast experience in publishing legacy games should be noted. Other games from the franchise have recently earned the company a combined revenue of $0.4 million, such as Bud Farm 420 and Bud Farm Grass Roots. Meanwhile, Bud Farm Idle Tycoon also saw $2.5 million in earnings, with $0.3 million in net operating income.
PS4 games you need to play right now
Reports of the highly anticipated PS5 have seen Sony (NYSE: SNE)’s stock rise by 40% this year. An improved version of the PlayStation 4, there will be a DualSense wireless controller as well as a revamped user interface. But while we are on the edge of our seats waiting, here are some games you can play:
1. God of War
An oldie but goodie, God of War takes you deep into Norse mythology as you fight different enemies while your character, Kratos, fights for survival with his son at his side. A third-person action-adventure game, there’s combat and puzzle-solving, but there’s also opportunities to explore the beautiful landscape that’s designed by the geniuses at the SIE Santa Monica Studio.
2. Bloodborne
An action RPG that’s not for the faint of heart, you will definitely feel the thrill of fighting the boss levels as much as the combats. Dark and tense, if you like bleak and gothic backdrops then Japanese developer FromSoftware has made this game just for you. There are traps everywhere, and as a Hunter you will have to fight people in the city that have turned into beasts—or die trying.
Essential games for the Xbox One
If you’re a Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) fan, then you are probably excited for the Xbox Series X to arrive. Until then, here are some games to play:
1. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
If you have been dreaming of becoming a Spartan hero, then this is your chance. Ubisoft has created this epic adventure where your choices can shape history. It is set during the Peloponnesian War in the time of Ancient Greece, with stunning graphics and over a hundred hours of gameplay.
2. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
Developer Infinity Ward continues this thrilling saga with more challenges for players who will now step into the shoes of Tier One soldiers. Experience what it’s like to be caught in a war during the 21st century, and equip your character with weaponry similar to what is used in the field today.
An immersive experience
While video games are still sensational to play, investors shouldn’t overlook mobile games—the industry continues to grow and surpass expectations. Even users are turning to mobile because of ease of use and convenience, not to mention publishers who are making sure their games are also available on mobile.
Sony, Microsoft and Activision have long been in the business of making games, and their influence on the industry cannot be denied. That being said, Leaf Mobile’s legacy games have made it a top contender in the mobile gaming market. All together these companies are pushing the industry forward to an era of digital gaming that has never been more vibrant and exciting.