When you want a game on phones, the first question is often: an app or a browser game? Neither is always better. The choice depends on what the game should achieve, how long it is meant to live and how players will find it.
Native mobile app
A native app is downloaded from the App Store or Google Play and installed on the phone.
- Pros: the best performance even for heavy games, push notifications, works offline, visibility in app stores and the option of in-app purchases.
- Cons: installing is a hurdle many people never cross. Publishing requires app store review, updates go through the store, and the store typically takes a 15–30% fee on in-app purchases. Often the game also has to be made for both iOS and Android.
Browser game (HTML5)
A browser game opens straight from a link or a QR code — no install needed.
- Pros: no download barrier, the same game works on phones, tablets and computers, updates reach everyone instantly, and the game is easy to share on social media or embed on a website. Development is usually faster and more affordable.
- Cons: more limited access to device features, no app store visibility, and the browser is not suited to the heaviest 3D games.
The middle ground: PWA
A progressive web app (PWA) is a browser game that the user can add to the phone’s home screen like an app. It can also work offline to a limited extent. A PWA is a good option when you want an app-like feel without the app store process.
Quick comparison
| App | Browser game | |
|---|---|---|
| Install | Required | Not required |
| Publishing | App store review | Instant |
| Performance | Best | Enough for most mini-games |
| Sharing | Store link | Link or QR code |
| Best for | Long-lived games and services | Campaigns, events, websites |
Our recommendation
- Campaign, event or website game: a browser game. Players are in within seconds, and nobody wants to install an app for a single campaign.
- A long-lived game with its own users and business model: a native app or a mobile game built with a game engine.
- An unproven idea: start with a browser prototype. If the game works and players come back, it can become an app later. Many game engines, such as Unity or Godot, can build the same game for both the browser and mobile.
We mostly make mini-games that run in the browser, because they fit campaigns and events best. If you are not sure which option suits you, tell us your goal — we will help you choose.