Mobile Gaming Trends and Market Insights from Sandsoft CEO David Fernandez Remesal

David Fernandez Remesal, CEO of Sandsoft since 2020, relocated to Saudi Arabia to lead the mobile game company headquartered there. Initially focused on esports, Sandsoft pivoted to mobile game development and publishing, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to diversify its economy and foster a knowledge-based sector including gaming.

Sandsoft operates globally with studios and teams in Saudi Arabia, Spain, Finland, China, and France, employing around 100 people from 30 nationalities. The company focuses on mobile-first games, developing prototypes and publishing titles like DC Heroes and Villains, while supporting midcore gamers—a growing segment within the mobile market.

Fernandez Remesal highlights significant industry trends shaping mobile gaming: the rise of Generation Z with new consumption patterns favoring short-form content, the impact of Apple’s privacy policies limiting targeted advertising, and ongoing antitrust rulings that may allow developers to advertise and sell content outside traditional app stores at lower commission rates.

These regulatory changes could disrupt the dominance of Apple and Google’s app stores, enabling developers to build direct relationships with consumers, offer flexible pricing, and retain more revenue. Sandsoft is positioning itself to leverage these shifts by focusing on community building, user acquisition, and exploring alternative payment and distribution channels.

The evolution of mobile games toward more complex, midcore experiences with deeper economies and engagement mechanics is another key trend. Sandsoft is developing accessible games with rich content and metagames that appeal to a broad audience while maintaining simplicity for ease of play and retention.

Generative AI is transforming game development workflows at Sandsoft, enhancing content creation, NPC behavior, code reviews, and level design. AI tools enable smaller teams to produce more creative assets efficiently, revolutionizing both game production and marketing through optimized ad creation and testing.

Sandsoft’s experience reflects broader global shifts in gaming talent and markets. While China leads in mobile game development talent, emerging regions like Saudi Arabia and Latin America are rapidly growing their capabilities. Sandsoft invests in nurturing local talent to tell authentic stories with global appeal, recognizing the importance of cultural narratives in gaming.

The mobile-first generation is reshaping how games are discovered and consumed, with smartphones and tablets becoming primary gaming devices worldwide. This shift challenges traditional platforms like Nintendo and opens opportunities for mobile games to expand across PC and console, as well as into transmedia ventures such as movies and series.

Looking ahead, the integration of AI and evolving platform dynamics will continue to redefine mobile gaming’s landscape. Developers who adapt to privacy changes, leverage AI efficiencies, and embrace new distribution models will gain competitive advantages. Sandsoft’s strategic focus exemplifies how emerging market studios can innovate and scale globally in this dynamic environment.