When you’re waiting around between classes or commuting to work on the train, nothing beats having your favorite mobile games by your side. They’re the perfect way to pass the time and blow off some steam, but mobile games are becoming more than simple diversions. As phone technology continues to advance, so to does the reality of what’s possible in mobile gaming. These new games have truly come a long way from pushing blocks across the screen or slicing two-dimensional fruit in half (although these are still awesome).
In fact, mobile games have become such an immersive experience that they often rival that of their console companions. You often find yourself wishing there was a way to play your favorite title on your 60-inch flatscreen. Well, wish no more, because it’s easier than ever to take the “mobile” out of mobile gaming.
Stream to the Big Screen
The display on the Samsung Galaxy S6 is capable of 2160p resolution, which is higher than most top-of-the line TVs. That means that streaming your games onto a big screen is going to look very good indeed. Both Android and iOS devices have solid options for streaming video games from the phone to the television. For iPhone users, Apple’s AirPlay interfaces with Apple TV to allow for wireless streaming. Similarly, Chromecast offers a seamless screen-mirroring function for Android users. Third-party apps like “Twonky Beam” and “YouTube Leanback” can also stream to TVs and set-top boxes. Both of these apps have been designed with gamers in mind and even allowing for over-the-web streaming so others can behold your “Street Fighter 4” skills.
Improve Your Sound
When it comes to playing mobile games on your entertainment center, streaming video is only half the battle. You want the sound quality to match those next-gen graphics. You also want a wireless option so you don’t have to be tied down during a particularly intense race in “Asphalt 8.” Luckily, current generation phones, like the iPhone 6 and the Samsung Galaxy S6, have Bluetooth capabilities so you have a lot of options when it comes to improving the auditory experience of your mobile games. By far, your best bet is a soundbar and subwoofer combo with a built-in Bluetooth receiver, like the Samsung 300 Series. The game might look big, but it’s going to sound absolutely huge.
Customize Your Controls
If you’re loyal to console or PC gaming, your mobile phone can still play a huge role in your next “Diablo III” session. Ideum’s Gestureworks Gameplay lets you turn your touchscreen phone into a handheld, wireless controller. This app is available for iOS and Android-enabled devices and features a keyboard-and-mouse-style setup that is especially useful for input-heavy RPGs and strategy games. It’s fully customizable, so you can place your most vital input buttons exactly where you like them. It also interfaces with Bluetooth, so there’s zero lag when you input a command. You can even save your customized layouts to your phone, so if there’s an impromptu “World of Warcraft” session, you won’t be at a disadvantage.
Use Your Personal Gaming Assistant
For a few years, TV networks have encouraged you to interact with your favorite shows as you watch. Game developers are now following suit. For console games, your phone is a great way to view maps, statistics and scores without clogging up your main gaming screen. Microsoft has been especially supportive of this technology with the Xbox One. The “Destiny” smartphone app, for example, lets you track your Guardian’s stats as well as your weapon and item inventories. It also works as a point of contact for friends and allies across the network. On the other hand, Nintendo has always been sheepish about smartphone gaming; however, that hasn’t stopped third parties from developing second-screen apps for popular games like “Super Smash Brothers” and “Mario Kart 8.”
