Daily Mobile Gaming News

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

News Tue, May 19, 2026

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Launches 2026 Global Skin Design Contest with $49,000 Prize

The 2026 Global Skin Design Contest for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang has officially begun, boasting a staggering $49,000 prize pool for talented artists around the world. Participants are tasked with designing a complete hero skin series based on one of two selected themes: "The Awakened Civilisation" or "The Immortal Bloodline Civilization," and they must choose a hero from five different lanes to represent their concept. Submissions are open until June 21, 2026, giving artists ample time to showcase their creativity. This year's contest theme, "Era of Awakening: The Clash of Two Destinies," encourages original designs that resonate with the game’s aesthetic. Beyond the cash prizes, successful participants may also land remote employment opportunities with the MLBB creative team, a potential game-changer for those looking to break into the industry. The judging panel features several luminaries from the global game art scene, including Ma Hui, Senior Concept Designer of MLBB; Wenjun Lin, Chief Artist of MLBB; and Adrian Smith, known for his work on iconic franchises like 'Warhammer 40,000' and 'Magic: The Gathering.' Additionally, Ben Zhang, a Principal Concept Artist for 'Overwatch,' will also lend his expertise to the evaluation process. MOONTON Games emphasizes that this contest underscores their commitment to fostering creativity in various aspects of MLBB, from hero design to music and esports presentation. This push for innovation was recently highlighted at the 2026 NYX Game Awards, where Moontunes Studios snagged two Grand Winner titles for music and audio design. To participate, artists should prepare their submissions in PNG and PSD formats, ensuring each file is under 50MB. Importantly, designs must be original, unpublished works, and AI-generated content is strictly prohibited. Make sure your design aligns with the chosen hero while adhering to high-quality standards. The selected heroes for the contest span across different lanes, including Natan, Hanabi, Claude, Beatrix, and Clint for Gold Lane; Bane, Uranus, Jawhead, Terizla, and Alice for EXP Lane; Eudora, Kimmy, Odette, Yve, and Valentina for Mid Lane; Joy, Sun, Harley, Balmond, and Aulus for Jungle; and Franco, Hilda, Estes, Mathilda, and Atlas for Roam. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your mark in the world of MLBB and apply through the official link as soon as possible!

News Mon, May 18, 2026

Apple Reveals Nominees for Annual Design Awards Ahead of WWDC

Apple has rolled out its list of nominees for the prestigious Apple Design Awards, with winners set to be announced just before WWDC kicks off on June 8. In the ‘delight and fun’ category, players can find FuturLab’s engaging PowerWash Simulator, Poti Poti Studio’s quirky Is This Seat Taken?, and Devolver's Ball x Pit, created by Kenny Sun, all vying for the top spot. Meanwhile, the ‘inclusivity’ award sees Sago Mini’s Jinja’s Garden, Hyper Luminal Games’ Pine Hearts, and Firaxis Games’ Civilization VII battling it out for recognition. Inkle's TR-49 stands out as the sole iOS contender for the ‘Innovation’ award, while MacOS title Blue Prince from Dogubomb/Raw Fury and VisionOS game Pickle Pro developed by Resolution Games round out the category. Toppluva’s Grand Mountain Adventure 2 is also in the spotlight, nominated for the ‘Interaction’ award alongside Inkle’s TR-49 and Sago Mini’s Jinja’s Garden, both of which are receiving nominations for the second time. The ‘social impact’ award features Spilled from Sound Games, a unique title focused on cleaning polluted waterways, as the only iOS nominee. The other two entrants, Consume Me from Hexacutable and Despelote from Panic, are MacOS titles. Lastly, for the ‘visuals and graphics’ category, Hypergryph’s Arknights: Endfield and Snapbreak’s Silt represent iOS, competing against the MacOS version of Cyberpunk 2077. With WWDC right around the corner, all eyes will be on the design award winners to be unveiled shortly before the event.

News Mon, May 18, 2026

Exel by Merak Gaming Accelerator: Essential Insights for Studios in the MEA

The Exel by Merak Gaming Accelerator is making waves in the Middle East and Africa, offering a structured pathway for early-stage game studios. This program kicks off with a two-week virtual bootcamp, followed by an intensive 14-week in-person accelerator in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. International participants will need to relocate, but fear not—the accelerator facilitates this transition. Each selected startup can secure up to $300,000 in funding, comprising $150,000 in cash and an equal amount in strategic support. Launched by investment firm Merak Capital in 2024 with an ambitious budget of around $82 million, Exel aims to nurture startups in game development, publishing, and related services. The program has already completed two cohorts, graduating numerous startups and reopening applications in April. However, many questions linger regarding equity, eligibility, and the specifics of what studios can expect in return for their commitment. Exel is part of Saudi Arabia's broader Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a global gaming hub. The program plans to invest in 15 to 20 startups per cohort, with a goal of helping at least 15 of them produce commercially viable games. Selected teams will benefit not only from financial support but also from mentorship by industry veterans and access to a network of partners, including notable entities like Savvy, Huawei, the Saudi Esports Federation, and Microsoft. The accelerator's structure comprises six distinct phases. It all begins with the call for applications, followed by a selection process that evaluates team strength, market potential, and scalability. Successful applicants then embark on a two-week virtual bootcamp focused on onboarding and strategic goal-setting, which can be balanced with existing job commitments. Following this, a filtering round determines which teams advance to the full-time accelerator phase in Riyadh. During the 14-week program, teams must commit fully, with accommodations and travel support provided for those coming from outside the region. The culmination of this phase is Demo Day, where startups present their projects to a curated audience of investors and industry stakeholders. Even after the program's conclusion, support continues through Merak's network, offering mentorship and investment pathways. Weekly life within the accelerator is structured and highly interactive. Founders engage with mentors and industry experts, participate in one-on-one feedback sessions, and attend workshops focused on operational skills and product development. Pitching is an ongoing activity, not just a one-time event at the end. Eligibility criteria are clear: international studios must relocate for the in-person phase, while local companies need valid Commercial Registration (CR). All applicants must demonstrate a minimum viable product (MVP) or be in active development, along with a solid team portfolio and a commitment to full-time participation. The geographic scope of eligibility is wider than the MENA label suggests, welcoming applicants from over 70 countries, including African studios with significant potential for collaboration. Exel has four cohorts planned, with Cohort 1 and Cohort 2 already completed. Applications for Cohort 3 are open until May 21, 2026, and the fourth is scheduled for H1 2027. Graduates of the program are expected to launch polished gaming products, develop a funding-ready pitch deck, and establish revenue growth and key partnerships. AI integration is a core theme throughout the curriculum, influencing everything from development pipelines to commercialization strategies. Founders are encouraged to leverage AI knowledgeably and strategically. One of the most crucial lessons shared by Exel CEO Faisal Sedrani is that founders should pitch a balanced vision that includes commercial viability, rather than relying solely on creative ideas. The program is designed to shift the focus from merely creating a game to building a profitable company. Interested studios can apply through the official Exel website.

News Mon, May 18, 2026

Scopely Unveils Monopoly Go's Visual Identity at PGC Barcelona

Scopely's VP of art, Howard Shin, is set to take the stage at Pocket Gamer Connects Barcelona on June 15th and 16th, offering a deep dive into the artistic vision behind the top-grossing mobile game, Monopoly Go. With over 1,100 employees in Spain contributing to this multi-billion dollar success, the event promises valuable insights into the game’s distinctive visual style. Shin's presentation, titled "Designing For Billions: Crafting A Distinct Visual Identity For A Hit Global Game," will address the unique challenges of creating a visual identity for a game that appeals to a vast and diverse audience. As noted in the session description, the task lies in striking a balance between originality and the familiarity players expect from a globally recognized brand. Throughout his talk, Shin will recount the creative journey that shaped Monopoly Go's visual direction, from initial explorations to developing a cohesive art style that resonates across generations and cultures. He'll delve into the complexities of designing for a broad audience while avoiding generic pitfalls, highlighting the principles his team employed to maintain both freshness and emotional connection. Additionally, the session will cover how art direction adapts within a live game environment, where factors like content velocity, player feedback, and ongoing engagement influence creative decisions. Scopely will have a notable presence at PGC Barcelona, with other speakers including director of slate strategy Talia Shmuel and senior product manager Adam Zelenay. The event, returning for its second year, will gather over 1,000 professionals from the games industry to discuss mobile, PC, console, AI, and HTML5 gaming. Barcelona has become a burgeoning hub for game developers, hosting established companies like Scopely, King, Rovio, Bandai Namco, Socialpoint, and Gameloft, alongside a thriving scene of indie and startup firms. Interested attendees can register on the PGC Barcelona website to join thousands of industry peers for this exciting event.

News Mon, May 18, 2026

The Red Cathedral Brings Board Game Strategy to Mobile and PC in Fall 2026

Devir is set to launch The Red Cathedral, a digital adaptation of the acclaimed strategy board game, on Android, iOS, and PC in Fall 2026. This beloved turn-based strategy title has already sold over 100,000 physical copies and is known for its deep tactical gameplay. Players will dive into the construction of the Tsar’s grand cathedral, managing resources and outsmarting rival architects along the way. In The Red Cathedral, players take on the role of a team of architects hired by Tsar Ivan the Terrible to build different parts of the cathedral. The game features a resource management system, guild influence mechanics, and allows for both solo play and cross-platform multiplayer. You can compete against 1 to 4 players, invite friends locally or online, or even challenge random opponents. Additionally, there are three levels of AI available for those who prefer to go it alone. The game promises a wealth of content with expanded art, solid replayability, strategic depth, and tutorials to guide players through their architectural endeavors. While The Red Cathedral is generating excitement, it has yet to appear on app stores, so players will need to keep an eye out for updates as the release date approaches.

News Sun, May 17, 2026

Death Note Deserves a Mobile Game Adaptation Now

Death Note is not just a cult classic; it’s a psychological supernatural thriller crafted by the talented Tsugumi Ohba. Since its debut in 2003, it has enthralled fans with its gripping narrative, inspiring an anime adaptation, live-action films, and even a PC game. Yet, one adaptation remains conspicuously absent: a mobile game. Imagine a mobile game that immerses players in investigations, mind games, and choice-driven gameplay, all while delivering cinematic storytelling. If you’re not familiar with Death Note, it centers around Light Yagami, the morally ambiguous protagonist who discovers a mysterious notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it—provided he knows their face. The story unfolds into a psychological battle of wits between Light and the brilliant detective L, filled with twists and a slow descent into god complexes. This tense cat-and-mouse game, devoid of flashy fights, keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its rich storyline and clever dialogue. For a proper mobile adaptation, I envision a story-driven RPG that combines strategic investigations with choice-based mechanics. What if players stepped into L’s shoes, gathering clues and tracking suspects while making decisions that could alter the course of the narrative? Each choice would carry weight and consequences, forcing players to think several steps ahead, just like the characters do in the anime. Unique missions could introduce new suspects and confrontations, enhancing the mind games that are the hallmark of the series. While I’m not advocating for a social deduction approach like DEATH NOTE: Killer Within, multiplayer mind battles could provide an engaging twist, allowing players to embody Kira while others attempt to unmask them. Visually, a Death Note mobile game would benefit from dark, semi-realistic graphics. Think of the moody aesthetics of Persona 5: The Phantom X, minus the quirky effects. Picture navigating rain-soaked city streets, piecing together clues in dimly lit interrogation rooms, and experiencing tense face-offs between Kira and L or Misa. High graphical quality is a plus, but the atmosphere is what truly enhances immersion. Character diversity is another strength of Death Note that could enrich gameplay. Imagine playing as Light, L, Misa, or even Ryuk, each equipped with unique investigative styles and abilities. The clash of wits between Light and L would provide an exhilarating experience, while Ryuk’s quirky personality could introduce a fun edge to gameplay. A mobile adaptation of Death Note seems like a no-brainer, especially given its massive global fanbase. A game focused on investigation mechanics, rich storytelling, and decision-based gameplay would be a perfect fit for quick, immersive sessions. By providing regular updates with intriguing cases, alternative endings, or limited-time events, developers could keep players engaged for years to come. With a well-executed mobile game, the beloved franchise could reach new heights, captivating both anime enthusiasts and gamers who relish detective stories.

News Sat, May 16, 2026

Shattered Dimension: A Mind-Bending Puzzle Adventure Now on iOS

CottonGame, the creative minds behind titles like Sunset Hills, have unveiled their latest brain-teaser, Shattered Dimension, which has just hit the iOS App Store. Originally launched on PC back in April, this indie title is also primed for Android with pre-registration now open on the Google Play Store. Shattered Dimension invites players into a whimsical, overhead perspective world where you play as an investigator drawn into an intricate mystery. Your journey takes you through an array of eclectic locations including restaurants, police stations, and a shadowy laboratory lurking beneath the surface. It's like a detective novel, but with a twist of fantasy and just the right dose of puzzling madness. As you navigate this bizarre realm, you'll tackle cleverly crafted puzzles, gather crucial items, and slowly unravel the tangled truth of the narrative. The game encourages you to forge connections between characters, chase after a complex storyline, and use your wits to outsmart those tricky puzzles. Plus, interactive elements abound! Click around to converse with quirky characters and dig up clues that propel your investigation forward. Visually, Shattered Dimension stands out with its unique art style, offering a romantic yet mysterious vibe that's a departure from CottonGame's previous works. It’s a visual treat that complements the mind-bending gameplay beautifully. For those eager to get in on the action, iOS users can dive right in via the App Store, while Android enthusiasts can pre-register and be among the first to play when it drops. Keep an eye out for the Android release date; it promises to be an adventure worth taking!

News Sat, May 16, 2026

Clash of Clans Teases New Global Chat Feature in Social Overhaul

Clash of Clans is stirring the pot with hints of a new social feature aimed at connecting players around the globe, possibly signaling the return of the beloved Global Chat feature. During the latest episode of Inside the Builder’s Hut, General Manager Sabrina dropped some intriguing clues about enhancing social interactions within the game, making us wonder if the old Global Chat is about to get a revival. Sabrina, in a candid chat with Community Manager Ferri, expressed her passion for improving clan life and social dynamics in Clash of Clans. Notably, she repeatedly emphasized the word "globally," which is a term that has been collecting dust since the Global Chat was axed back in 2019 due to a flood of spam and toxicity. The last time we heard anything like it was, well, ages ago—likely over six years now. It’s as if Supercell is finally ready to give players something concrete to chew on. While no visuals were shared during this segment, the focus on social connection was palpable, hinting at some exciting developments on the horizon. While we can't confirm the exact nature of this new feature—Sabrina mentioned they’re "cooking something that people can feel more connected globally"—the prospect of a Global Chat-like system has players buzzing. The original Global Chat was a treasure trove for players looking to recruit clan members and engage with others worldwide, but it ultimately fell victim to its own popularity. The moderation issues led to its removal, but it seems the team is ready to take another swing at fostering community interaction. Beyond the social updates, Sabrina also touched on other pressing matters, including the ore economy and Ranked Mode. The developers are keen to refine how ores function and help returning players catch up more swiftly. They acknowledged that the current Ranked Mode can be a bit overwhelming and are already planning further improvements following the April update. In summary, Clash of Clans is not just resting on its laurels but is actively working to rejuvenate its social fabric while refining gameplay mechanics. With potential changes on the horizon, players might want to keep their eyes peeled for what's next in this long-standing mobile phenomenon. For those itching for more updates, be sure to follow the usual channels for the latest news and discussions!

News Sat, May 16, 2026

Roco Kingdom: A Cutest Pet RPG That Packs a Punch

Roco Kingdom has burst onto the scene, and if you’re a fan of pet RPGs, this might just be your next obsession. Developed by MoreFun Studios and released by Tencent, this mobile MMORPG invites you into a vibrant fantasy world filled with adorable pets and open-world exploration. It’s been a long road to launch—nearly six years packed with delays—but Roco Kingdom is finally live on Chinese servers, and it’s already making waves in the mobile gaming community. Imagine a delightful mashup of Pokémon and Genshin Impact, and you’re hovering around the essence of Roco Kingdom. During my 12 to 14 hours of gameplay, I found the world to be bursting with life and charm. The pet system echoes the nostalgia of Pokémon, while the exploration feels fresh and reminiscent of Genshin Impact’s expansive landscapes. Right from the start, you’re greeted with three elemental starter pets: the fiery Rajiji, the nimble Spring Rabbit, and the aquatic Water Ball. I went with Rajiji because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good fire-type? As you venture forth, you’ll stumble across a plethora of pets, each tied to one of the classic three elements, with plenty more waiting to be discovered. The game encourages thorough exploration, rewarding players as they uncover various creatures. With a whopping 376 pets to collect, you’re in for a treat, although don’t be surprised if some of them feel a bit less exciting than others. It's all about finding that perfect balance between common critters and those that truly shine. Roco Kingdom isn’t just a pretty face; it showcases a compelling turn-based combat system that adds depth to the gameplay. Pets exhibit unique behaviors based on the environment and time of day—some might hide from rain, while others are just nocturnal cuties. The evolution system adds another layer of strategy, allowing players to mix and match abilities, which I found to be particularly enjoyable as I experimented with team combinations. The game’s monetization model is surprisingly gentle, offering valuable bundles and cosmetics without feeling overly aggressive. This is a breath of fresh air compared to the often-stressful monetization seen in many mobile RPGs. However, it’s worth noting that the Chinese version places a heavier emphasis on cosmetics, so we’ll have to wait for the global release to see how it all shakes out. While it’s too early to declare Roco Kingdom a genre dominator, it certainly presents itself as a strong contender for 2026’s most promising mobile RPG. The character designs brim with personality, and the world is crafted with a level of detail that invites exploration. With stiff competition ahead, it remains to be seen how it will fare, but if first impressions mean anything, this game is already capturing hearts and minds in the mobile gaming landscape.

News Sat, May 16, 2026

Windrose Sets Sail with Over 2 Million Sales Worldwide

Kraken Express and Pocketpair Publishing are celebrating a significant milestone as their early access pirate survival adventure game, Windrose, has officially sailed past the 2 million sales mark worldwide. The team expressed their gratitude in a heartfelt message, acknowledging the passionate community that has formed around the game. They noted, "When we first set sail, we could only hope that our game would find such a dedicated following. Seeing so many of you exploring the seas, sharing your stories, creating content, reporting issues, and supporting us every step of the way means more than we can properly express. Every screenshot, every stream, every review, every bug report, and every kind word has helped shape this adventure into something truly special. The Archipelago feels alive because of you." On the development front, players can expect another patch soon, addressing various issues reported by the community. Following that, the team will dive into full production for the next major update. Although details are still being discussed internally, they assure players that their goal is to enhance the experience in meaningful ways, making the wait worthwhile. "Thank you again, captains. This milestone is a new beginning for us, for the game, and for the community we’re building together. We are deeply touched by your support and will continue working hard to make this adventure worthy of your time and passion," they added. In Windrose, players step into the shoes of a captain on a quest to challenge the infamous Blackbeard, with the storyline unfolding into a larger conflict involving rival empires and feuding pirate factions. Gameplay features a mix of naval and on-foot exploration, complete with cannon battles and boarding actions. Players can customize their vessels, ranging from nimble ketches to imposing frigates. On land, resource gathering, settlement construction, NPC recruitment, and production system development await. The game boasts procedurally generated biomes alongside more than 100 hand-crafted dungeons and points of interest. Combat options are diverse, featuring melee and ranged weapons such as sabers, rapiers, muskets, and pistols. Character progression is enhanced through gear and abilities. Windrose supports solo offline play as well as co-op multiplayer for up to eight players, with both self-hosted and dedicated server options available. For those ready to embark on this swashbuckling journey, Windrose is available on PC via Steam.