Real-Time vs Turn-Based Co-Op on Mobile: Which Style Works Better?
Real-Time or Turn-Based cooperative mobile gameplay both have their own set of pros and cons. Deciding on the better style depends solely on players’ preferences.
The verdict between the two remains undecided since both have various perks and benefits, and choosing the better option requires an understanding of how exactly they differ.
Co-Op Games vs. Multiplayer Gaming
When some people think of “co-op gaming”, they assume it’s the same as “multiplayer gaming”. There are subtle yet distinct differences between the two terminologies. The easiest way to explain it is that all co-op games are multiplayer, while not all multiplayer games are co-op.
For a game to be co-op, the players logged in are cooperating toward a common goal. However, several multiplayer games on mobile do not require the players to collaborate. Take Real Racing or 8 Ball Pool, for example, it is every gamer for themselves.
It’s very similar to casino gaming when you play on your mobile phone. You get to enjoy different perks and bonuses, select your preferred game, whether it’s a crash gambling title or poker, and engage in these games to play and win for yourself. Regardless of the selected game, they are multiplayer but are not co-op.
What Are Real-Time Co-Op Mobile Games?
Real-time co-op games apply the effects of players’ actions simultaneously and immediately, and everyone sees the results the moment they happen. There are several real-time co-op games available today, which make for convenient gameplay on the go.
Some of the more popular titles in this category include Diablo Immortal, Tower of Fantasy, Genshin Impact, Keep Talking, Spaceteam, and Torchlight: Infinite.
These games prioritize fast reactions and strong teamwork. Players are kept on their toes at every twist and turn, which all contributes to an exciting, adrenaline-filled gaming experience. Whether it’s working together to beat a particularly difficult dungeon boss or solving a brain-racking puzzle, players engage in something bigger than themselves.
Why Real-Time Co-Op Mobile Games Are Popular?
One of the advantages of mobile gaming is that it allows you to play your favourite games with friends and family on the go, in real time.
This is undoubtedly one of the reasons why real-time co-op mobile games have become popular. You can easily enjoy and share your favourite game’s thrilling action with others just using your mobile device.
Real-time co-op mobile games also give players a sense of urgency. There’s a common goal to be achieved within a time frame. One can imagine the adrenaline spike.
Everybody’s logged in at the same time to meet that goal. Knowing that the team’s success depends on how well you play your part keeps you on your toes throughout the game. Such collaboration fosters camaraderie among players.
The level of engagement is also high, as teammates constantly exchange tips and ideas to reach the goal. This leads to a more immersive gaming experience for all the players.
Some Disadvantages of Real-Time Mobile Co-Op Games
Despite the appeal of real-time, mobile co-op games, certain factors might hamper effective gameplay. For instance, some players may not have a stable internet connection to enjoy the game.
For others, their mobile devices may struggle to keep up while exploring a game with advanced graphics. Also, because players are in different geographic locations, time differences can affect real-time co-op gaming.
Real-time mobile co-op games can be quite complex. Casual gamers may have a steep learning curve. It would be challenging to enjoy gaming when everyone keeps waiting for the newbie to catch up.
This can be overwhelming and lead the player to make mistakes that affect the team as a whole. As such, some amateur gamers would rather avoid the pressure associated with real-time mobile co-op games.
What Are Turn-Based Co-Op Mobile Games?
Turn-based co-op games are games that allow players to take turns while playing to achieve a common goal. These games usually have rounds or follow a structured gameplay order. Some popular examples of turn-based co-op mobile games include TurtleStrike and Etheria: Restart.
This specific genre sometimes requires setting up a strategy for gameplay beforehand. Gamers who excel in brainstorming and planning before gaming would enjoy playing turn-based co-op mobile games.
Turn-based co-op mobile games are more flexible than real-time co-op games. Gameplay can either be synchronous or asynchronous.
When all players are online at the same time and taking turns, the gameplay is synchronous. Asynchronous gameplay occurs when players take turns to play at different times. This flexibility makes it easy for gamers to enjoy a wide range of gaming experiences without sacrificing their time.
Why Do People Play Turn-Based Co-Op Mobile Games?
Turn-based co-op mobile games are great for gamers who prioritize strategy and critical thinking. For instance, it’s easier for a chess player turned gamer to enjoy a turn-based co-op mobile game as a newbie.
Not only can they carry over skills honed from chess, but they can also ease into the gameplay by observing how teammates progress through the rounds.
Another reason why some people play turn-based co-op mobile games is for the convenience. Asynchronous gameplay means you don’t have to be online 24/7. This allows players to enjoy the game in their leisure time, without pressure.
Casual gamers can also enjoy the game on the go without worrying about dragging the team back. Most turn-based co-op games are well-suited for gameplay on slower mobile devices, unlike real-time co-op games.
Drawbacks of Turn-Based Co-Op Mobile Gaming
The excitement of living on the edge cannot be easily replicated in a turn-based co-op mobile game. Those who enjoy fast-paced, high-stakes, adrenaline-filled gaming will find them very frustrating. In addition, the game flow can be disrupted easily. It may be difficult to continue from where one stopped when there’s a pause in the game, from waiting for turns.
Turn-based co-op mobile gaming places a high demand on the player’s patience and coordination. As a result, the gaming session can be less energetic than in real-time co-op.
Which Type of Co-Op Mobile Game Suits Different Players?
Players who love high-octane, adventure-themed, action-based gaming will enjoy real-time co-op mobile games. They’d be able to bring the full weight of their skills and quick reactions to games. They’re also able to share these immersive gaming experiences with friends who have similar gaming passions
Turn-based co-op mobile games, on the other hand, are best suited for gamers who prefer to strategize and prepare before gameplay. These players like to have a solid strategy in place and treat the game like a puzzle. Another category of gamers well-suited to turn-based co-op games is those who play for fun or are usually very busy.
