Daily Mobile Gaming News

A cleaner daily brief on mobile game launches, updates, and pre-registration moves worth watching.

News Tue, Jul 14, 2026

Royal Kingdom crosses $750M in revenue, 42% from H1 2026

Royal Kingdom achieved a significant milestone by surpassing $750 million in mobile player spending on July 3rd, 2026. This achievement comes after a record-breaking first half of the year where the game generated $324.8 million, accounting for 42% of its total lifetime revenue. Royal Kingdom has outpaced Royal Match to reach this mark less than two years after its global launch in November 2024. The current total player spending stands at $766.1 million. The game initially entered soft launch in select regions, including the UK and Canada, in 2023, spending 19 months in testing before its worldwide debut. Since its full release, earnings have consistently risen, with the United States leading in player spending, representing 61% of global earnings. In contrast, the UK contributes only 7%, followed by Japan at 5%. This distribution mirrors that of Dream Games' earlier title, Royal Match, where the US holds a 53% share. Notably, Royal Kingdom is outperforming Royal Match in early revenue comparison, despite the latter still leading in lifetime revenue with over $7 billion. Among the major app stores, 63% of Royal Kingdom's earnings have come from the App Store, while Google Play accounts for 37%. The total earnings may be even higher when considering alternative app stores. January 2026 marked the game's highest monthly earnings to date at $58.9 million, reflecting a 421% year-over-year increase. Royal Kingdom's daily earnings have shown consistent growth, with a current record of $2.7 million on January 31st, 2026. This upward trend indicates a solid and sustained player engagement rather than sporadic spikes in revenue.

News Tue, Jul 14, 2026

Black Desert Mobile launches second season and summer event on July 14

Pearl Abyss has officially launched the second season of Black Desert Mobile, accompanied by a summer event called Dragon Palace on July 14, 2026. This update introduces new seasonal content that allows players to utilize existing family characters, ensuring returning adventurers can participate using their established characters. The second season focuses on a fairy tale narrative, providing players with resources necessary for fairy growth. Graduating players will receive a Chaos Skill Vision Selection Box as a reward. Additionally, the summer event, themed around the stories of Teacher Gu and Teacher To, runs until August 4, featuring a quest to save a heatstroke-stricken Dragon King, along with various mini-games. Players can exchange collected coins for items like Dawn's Moonstone. New summer swimwear called Citrus is also introduced, available for all transcendental classes. In conjunction with the recent Heidel Banquet held on July 11, Pearl Abyss announced plans to enhance long-term service, which includes the addition of new equipment, expansion of growth structures, content streamlining, and improvements to guild battles and pet systems. Some content, like the Castle of Suma and the Maze of Mrovek, will be streamlined, while the Black Sun and Night of the Ghosts events will switch to a weekly rotation, expanding rewards. To celebrate the banquet, players can receive special coupons that grant items like W's Blessing, Black Pearls, and Repair Recovery Tickets. This follows the completion of the remaster update announced last year during the Calpheon Banquet, finalized on June 23, alongside a developer commentary video outlining the significant changes and development process.

News Tue, Jul 14, 2026

Boku to Ninja to Tenka Tōitsu launches July 24 with pre-registration open

Boku to Ninja to Tenka Tōitsu is set to officially launch on July 24, 2026, for iOS and Android devices. The announcement was made on July 14 via the game's official X account, inviting players to pre-register ahead of the release date. Pre-registration for Boku to Ninja to Tenka Tōitsu began on June 30, allowing players to secure rewards based on the number of sign-ups. These rewards include special items, such as summoning bells that can be used in the game's gacha system upon its release. Interested players are encouraged to register early to maximize their benefits. The game is described as an auto-battle RPG where players aim to create a powerful team of ninjas to conquer all ten regions across 1000 stages, ultimately seeking to unify the land. This focus on team-building and strategic combat positions Boku to Ninja to Tenka Tōitsu as a notable entry in the mobile RPG genre. With its launch date confirmed and pre-registration already underway, Boku to Ninja to Tenka Tōitsu is poised to attract attention from RPG enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy ninja-themed gameplay.

News Tue, Jul 14, 2026

Ascend to ZERO launches globally on July 13 for Xbox and Steam

KRAFTON and Flyway Games have officially released their new action roguelike game, Ascend to ZERO, on July 13, 2026. Available on Steam, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and ROG Xbox Ally, this title introduces a unique gameplay mechanic centered around the ability to stop time during battles. Players can leverage this time-stopping ability strategically to confront waves of enemies, combining various skills and combat styles to create personalized builds in the classic roguelike fashion. The game is priced at 1,600 yen (tax included) and is also part of the Xbox Game Pass, allowing subscribers immediate access upon its launch. To celebrate the release, a Twitch Drops event is underway, offering players the chance to earn rewards, including a legendary pet, a special weapon, and in-game currency, based on viewing time or cumulative playtime. Conditions for rewards include milestones at 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, and 2 hours. The innovative time-manipulating mechanics and inclusion in Xbox Game Pass signal a strong push for player engagement, making Ascend to ZERO a notable addition to the action roguelike genre.

News Tue, Jul 14, 2026

Smilegate opens pre-registration for Mirashi: The Invisible Future

Smilegate has launched the pre-registration page for its upcoming collectible RPG, Mirashi: The Invisible Future, developed by Control9. This announcement coincides with Smilegate's participation in the Anime Expo, North America's largest subculture festival, held on June 24, 2026. Interested players can register their contact information on the pre-registration page to secure their spot. Mirashi showcases the talents of former developers from popular titles like Goddess of Victory: Nikke and Seven Knights 2. The game will be released across multiple platforms, including PC and mobile. Notably, Hyungseop Kim, known for his work on various subculture games, serves as the art director, bringing significant attention to the project. Set in a world where time and space intersect, Mirashi follows the protagonist, a member of the Concord, as they team up with captivating girls like Ende, Tieria, and Itsuka to save their world from impending doom. The battle system incorporates the theme of time and space, enhancing immersion with a location-based real-time turn-based combat model that emphasizes character positioning and movement as key strategic elements. Han Jae-young, a director at Smilegate, expressed that the pre-registration page aims to introduce Mirashi to global players and foster closer communication. He also mentioned that further details about the game would be gradually revealed through various channels. The official release date for Mirashi is yet to be announced, and more information can be found on the official YouTube channel and community platform X.

News Mon, Jul 13, 2026

Top New Mobile Games Ranking for July 2026

AppMedia has released its latest ranking of new mobile games, highlighting titles launched within the last three months. This list includes popular RPGs, action games, and MMOs, all available for free to play on mobile devices. Players can dive into these exciting new experiences without any cost, making it an opportune time to explore fresh titles. At the top of the list is "Dot Battle Chronicles," a tower defense RPG that allows players to simultaneously attack and defend using a dual-wielding battle system. Each playthrough provides a unique experience with its roguelike elements, and players can currently enjoy a special launch bonus of 11 free draws in the gacha system. In second place is "Dot Legend: Becoming the Demon King in Another World," an idle RPG set in a fantasy realm. This game features nostalgic pixel art and offers an engaging idle battle system. Players can participate in a release celebration offering up to 2000 free gacha draws, making it an attractive option for fans of the genre. “Rourou's Village” ranks third, offering a charming simulation experience where players build and decorate their villages alongside adorable characters called Rourou. The game currently features exclusive free items, including costumes from a collaboration with PomPom Purin. The ranking continues with titles that include "Dragon Blood: Slayers Academy," which challenges players with a rich storyline and strategic battles, and "Supernatural Squad," a cooperative horror adventure that blends humor with thrilling gameplay. Players are encouraged to check these out for their respective launch bonuses and unique gameplay experiences. For mobile gamers seeking fresh content, these new titles not only promise entertaining gameplay but also offer generous rewards, making them worth a look for anyone interested in exploring the latest mobile gaming trends.

News Mon, Jul 13, 2026

Google Play introduces new fees and Level Up program for developers

Google Play's General Manager for games, Aurash Mahbod, outlined the company's new fee structure and the Level Up program aimed at developers. The updated fees took effect on June 30 for developers in the US, EU, and UK, with plans to expand to Australia on September 30, Japan and Korea on December 31, and globally by September 30, 2027. Notably, Google's billing fee of 5% was not included in the new table, meaning in-app purchases (IAPs) made by existing users via Google’s native billing will still be subject to the previous standard cut of 30%, while newer installations will see a reduction to 25%. These policy changes are seen as incremental rather than revolutionary, allowing developers to reclaim a portion of the previous flat 30% cut if they choose alternative payment methods. The Level Up program offers additional discounts but requires developers to meet certain compliance and technical requirements. Mahbod refrained from commenting on whether Epic Games influenced the new policies or if these changes were a direct response to the legal battles with the company. He did mention, however, that Google has been developing many of these adjustments for several years. Mahbod explained that the diverse fee structure reflects Google’s dual approach of lowering the standard 30% cut while introducing the Level Up program to incentivize quality development. He highlighted that the baseline service fee for new installs will drop from 30% to 20% automatically, requiring no action from developers. The Level Up program is crafted to reward those who invest in delivering premium experiences across devices, ensuring enhanced user engagement and retention. Further, Mahbod emphasized the importance of the service fees, asserting that they support significant investments in the Android ecosystem and Play Store operations, which manage complexities over 195 markets with numerous local payment methods. He mentioned that Google continues to engage with developers for feedback, resulting in enhancements like improved AI placement controls and account management features. The goal remains to create value for all titles participating in the Level Up program while maintaining the integrity of in-game economies and promoting new-user acquisition strategies.

News Mon, Jul 13, 2026

Burny Games shares four key lessons from 65 million downloads

Burny Games, a Ukrainian mobile gaming company known for its puzzle titles, recently celebrated reaching 65 million downloads in just four years. The company, which has developed popular games like Colorwood Sort and Playdoku, emphasizes the importance of knowing when to halt development on projects that fail to show promising metrics. Their approach has evolved to favor hands-on partnerships in publishing rather than a high-volume testing strategy. CEO Anatolii Henis highlighted that one crucial lesson learned is the courage to say "no" when necessary. Over the years, Burny Games has discontinued several projects, including Super Cooker and Block Brush, when data indicated they were unlikely to achieve scalability. The team learned that excessive focus on perfection could hinder timely player feedback, which is essential for ensuring a game's success. Another significant insight is the value of structured autonomy within teams. Burny Games has shifted towards autonomous teams acting as independent business units, each with a producer at the helm. This structure fosters cohesion and allows teams to prioritize their goals without needing to escalate decisions, enabling faster development cycles. Lastly, Burny Games emphasizes the importance of technology as a growth lever. The company believes that the right tools empower small teams to produce complex projects efficiently, contrasting sharply with larger firms that may struggle with bureaucracy. This strategic focus on technology has been pivotal in their operations, allowing them to maximize talent and maintain competitive advantages in the mobile gaming landscape. In summary, Burny Games' experience underlines the necessity of setting clear metrics before project initiation, recognizing when to pivot or discontinue efforts, and leveraging technology effectively. These lessons are integral to their ongoing success as they continue to innovate in the puzzle game genre.

News Mon, Jul 13, 2026

Shanghai Games Week 2026: Events from July 29 to August 1

Shanghai Games Week 2026 kicks off with a series of events from July 29 to August 1. Highlights include the PG Connects Summit and various networking opportunities in China’s largest city during the world’s biggest games and digital entertainment expo. The PG Connects Summit returns on July 29, featuring a robust lineup of 40 expert speakers and a variety of networking activities. Last year's summit attracted over 630 attendees from 315 companies across 31 countries. The event will run from 08:30 to 18:00, followed by the Pocket Gamer 20th Anniversary Party at 19:30, which offers a chance to unwind and connect with industry peers. On July 30, the Game Developers RoadShow will occur, focusing on small and medium-sized game startups. This year’s Future Forward - ChinaJoy 2026 After Party promises to provide an engaging atmosphere against the backdrop of Shanghai's night skyline. Additionally, the Pocket Gamer Mixer in association with EnJoyPay will be held from 19:00 to 22:00, fostering connections among developers and publishers. ChinaJoy, the 23rd China Digital Entertainment Expo & Conference, takes place from July 31 to August 3, themed 'Level Up With AI.’ The event is expected to draw over 500 exhibitors and 410,000 attendees, featuring a dedicated B2B Negotiation Zone. The Indie Game Gacha Party on July 31 aims to create an interactive platform for developers, investors, and players. Finally, the DFO ChinaJoy Party will be held on August 1 at Cream Club, catering to key players in Asia's performance marketing landscape. As Shanghai welcomes industry professionals, these events provide ample opportunities for networking and collaboration, making it a must-attend for anyone in the gaming sector.

News Mon, Jul 13, 2026

Zenless Zone Zero surpasses $600M in mobile revenue in two years

Zenless Zone Zero has achieved over $600 million in gross player spending on mobile since its global launch on July 4, 2024. According to estimates from AppMagic, the urban fantasy action RPG generated $603.9 million across Google Play and the App Store within its first two years. The game features a web shop and is available on multiple platforms, suggesting its total earnings could be even higher. However, these figures do not account for revenue from alternative Android stores in China. Despite this impressive milestone, the game's revenue has seen a significant decline in its second year, dropping 51% to $198.9 million compared to the first year. Japan has emerged as the most lucrative market for Zenless Zone Zero, accounting for 42% of total player spending, with China following at 27% and the United States at 10%. This contrasts with previous HoYoverse titles, which primarily drew their largest audiences from China. The game distinguishes itself from HoYoverse's earlier RPGs through its urban setting and action-oriented gameplay, where players assume the role of Proxies battling interdimensional foes. This unique premise helped Zenless Zone Zero achieve a remarkable 40 million pre-registrations prior to launch. Recently, the version 3.0 update launched on June 17, introducing time-limited events, new rewards, and a main story chapter set in the sky island of Roscaelifer. The update also added the Wind attribute and introduced new gacha banners featuring Velina and returning character Ye Shunguang. Despite its success, Zenless Zone Zero's earnings represent just 17% of what Genshin Impact generated in its first two years, which totaled $3.6 billion. However, it has outperformed Honkai Impact 3rd during its initial two years, achieving an 87% increase from that title's $322.7 million from 2016 to 2018. As of 2026, Zenless Zone Zero continues to generate more than $10 million in monthly player spending, with June's figures hitting $11.8 million. The upcoming version 3.1 update is expected to reveal new story details, keeping player interest alive.