Resident Evil 3 Mobile Fails to Impress: iOS Core Gaming in Question
Years ago, some speculated smartphones, particularly iPhones, could become console killers. The idea was mobile gaming would mature, delivering experiences comparable to traditional consoles. While some significant games have reached iOS, performance often falls short. Capcom is still exploring this market.
Recently, Resident Evil 3, a mobile adaptation of the remake, launched on iOS. Initial financial results are underwhelming. Analytics firms estimate roughly $50,000 in revenue in its first three weeks with about 115,000 downloads. Some analysts even report lower profit figures, around $22,000. This echoes the weak reception of other Capcom iOS ports like Resident Evil 4 Remake, Resident Evil 7, and Resident Evil Village.
Is iOS Really a Viable Platform for Core Games?
This performance raises a key question. Is there a valid market for "core" gaming experiences on Apple's mobile platform? Matthew Ball, director at Epyllion, recently expressed doubt about porting games like Resident Evil to iPhones.
The only people who can play Resident Evil on the iPhone are people who own the newest and best iPhones from the last two years. There are about 40 million people who own these kinds of phones. By the way, they cost 1600 or 1700 dollars. And here is the million-dollar question: how many of those 40 million people play video games? The answer is — a lot. And the second question is, how many of the individuals who could possibly buy Resident Evil [on smartphones] have not bought it yet [on other systems]? And the third factor: how many people can possibly love Resident Evil as an abstract shooter, but this particular — game isn't for them?
Matthew Ball, Epyllion
Ball provides sharp insight. While many own powerful iPhones capable of playing these games, the overlap with core gamers wanting to play (and rebuy) games like Resident Evil on their phone is likely smaller than expected. Key points include:
Limited Gamer Audience on High-End iPhones
Not every high-end iPhone owner is a core gamer.
Platform Overlap
Many potential iOS gamers might already own Resident Evil 3 (or similar titles) on consoles or PC. Re-purchasing for a smaller screen and potentially inferior controls may not appeal.
Genre Mismatch?
The mobile gaming audience may not primarily seek hardcore survival horror like Resident Evil. They might prefer different genres on mobile.
Future Potential or Ongoing Losses?
Matthew Ball offers some long-term optimism. He suggests the mobile market could become more receptive to "midcore" and "above" gaming audiences by 2030. While massive sales may remain elusive, revenue could become "much more tangible" as the mobile games industry evolves.
However, the immediate question remains. Will publishers like Capcom continue investing in these currently unprofitable mobile ports? The promise of a future mobile games market must justify the present reality of low returns. Time will reveal the answer.
