After the fervor that last summer's hit mobile game, Pokemon Go, brought about, Niantic and Nintendo are back at it with a new, decidedly simple mobile game for the coming season: 'Magikarp Jump.' Fans of the minigames from 'Pokemon Stadium' for N64 will recognize the basic concept, which involves tapping the screen with precise timing to get one's magikarp to jump as high as possible.
Magikarp has always been an eminently relatable character. Laughed at by its peers, spurned by collectors, and generally hapless, the fishy monster evolves to become one of the most powerful characters in the franchise. Magikarp is a lesson in perseverance and the power of the commoner. Magikarp Jump seizes on the cult of the character, offering up gameplay that centers around the goofy, typically ignored anime character.
What's Driving This Trend
- Mobile Gaming
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new mobile games that leverage popular characters and simple gameplay mechanics to engage a wide audience.
- Nostalgic Gaming
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create games that tap into nostalgia by reintroducing beloved characters and concepts from previous gaming eras.
- Character Cult
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Capitalize on the popularity of specific characters by creating games or products that focus on their unique qualities and storylines.
Who This Affects Most
- Gaming
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new concepts and approaches in the gaming industry to create engaging and immersive experiences for players.
- Mobile App Development
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop innovative and user-friendly mobile apps that offer unique and entertaining experiences.
- Merchandise and Collectibles
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create and market merchandise or collectibles centered around popular gaming characters to tap into fan communities and drive revenue.
