Smartphones have come a long way in recent years with more and more people around the world gaining access to one. With each year, smartphones become more powerful and capable of playing higher end games which were previously only accessible via a computer or console.
Only around ten years ago, the top game your phone could handle was likely Angry Birds or Candy Crush. However this has since changed, with the likes of Call of Duty, PUBG and Double Bubble all being available to play on mobile following increase in hardware power.
Whilst these games are played on your mobile, most players can find this difficult and clunky with the touch screen being used for controls. So what can you do to increase your mobile gaming experience and take it to the next level?
In this article we’ll be taking a look into some of the best additions to your mobile gaming setup that you need to take it up a notch.
Controller
Whilst some people can comfortably play the games on their phone, for some using the touch screen just doesn’t feel right or is uncomfortable. This is where a gaming controller can come in. There are a few different options to choose from. You have your standard wireless console controller that can be connected via Bluetooth such as an Xbox or PS5 controller. These will give you the more classic console feel when playing as you’ll be used to the layout of the buttons.
Another option is a clip-on controller, these work by plugging in the controller and clipping it to your phone, basically turning your mobile into a mini handheld gaming machine. These are much better for people who play on the go, as using a controller on the train isn’t the easiest of tasks.
Either one works for its intended use, and it really depends what you’re going to be using it for, if you’re going to be playing whilst staying in, then the wireless controller is for you. However if you’re going to use it on the go, use the plug and play controller.
External display
Despite the ever growing size of mobiles, it can still sometimes be difficult to see enemy players in such games as Call of Duty. By using external screens such as a monitor or TV, you greatly increase your display and give yourself a much better chance. Most mobile phones now use USB-C, so this makes it very easy to link to a HDMI port on your screen, allowing for quick responsive display. This means having a bigger screen without any downside.
You can also link this with the above section and use a wireless controller. By doing this, it truly feels like you’re playing on a console as you’re not required to use the phone at all except to load the game up. This means you can get comfy, use your controller and have a blast knowing you’ve got the edge.
Stand
If you don’t have an external display available, then a stand is the next best thing. Having your phone on a stand allows you to use the controller without the need to hold or prop up your mobile, leaving your hands completely free for the controller, ensuring you give yourself the best chance at winning. Whilst it may not be as good as using a monitor, it’s definitely the best alternative if one isn’t available.
Headset
In recent times, in games such as Call of Duty and PUBG, audio has become just as important as visuals. That’s why it’s important to have a good headset or a good pair of earphones on hand for when you play. With a lot of smartphones removing the headphone jack on their later models, wireless headphones seem like the best place to go.
A lot of games make you rely on audio cues such as when a player is walking behind you in Call of Duty, you’ll hear footsteps audio behind you to alert you they’re there. Without this, you wouldn’t know at all and have no chance at all to react. As audio is also used in single player games to create and build tension and set atmosphere in the game.
As audio is so important in games now, it’s a great idea to ensure you have good quality headphones to ensure you give yourself the best chance at winning, as someone with better audio may just get the upper hand and take the win.
Mobile gaming is really taking the world by storm. With more and more players trying this out over classic console gaming, there’s really no sign of it slowing down. If you’re thinking of starting to play games on your mobile, what will you get first for your setup?
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