The Impact of Mobile Games in Europe: 2026

The report demonstrates that mobile gaming remains a dominant force in Europe’s digital economy, with 2025 revenues reaching €7.53 billion and a projected €8 billion by 2028 (CAGR –2.2 %). Nordicity’s economic analysis, covering over 1,000 studios across 32 countries and drawing on Sensor Tower data, assigns a €5.89 billion Gross Value Added (GVA) contribution to the broader economy and 63,340 jobs in 2025. For EU member states alone, GVA is €5.2 billion with 50,330 jobs, rising to €6.17 billion by 2028 (+4.8 %). The methodology bases GVA on studios’ in‑country expenditures—wages, user acquisition spend and other costs—rather than operating profit, a conservative approach acknowledged by the authors.

Globally, mobile games account for 55 % of the €167.26 billion games market in 2025, with Europe’s share reflecting a similar proportion. Over 300 million Europeans play on mobile devices (61 % of active players), and 97 % engage with free‑to‑play titles, totaling more than 320 million users. The average player age is 31, with 75 % adults. Mobile publishers allocate 41 % of annual budgets to player acquisition and retention, underscoring intense competition amid falling download volumes.

Revenue distribution highlights Finland (€1.4 billion), the UK (€895 million), Ireland (€868 million), Spain (€722 million) and Sweden (€630 million) as top markets. Smaller economies such as Cyprus, Serbia and Ukraine generate disproportionate revenue relative to GDP size.

Social impact findings from a 1,500‑person survey in the UK, Spain and Sweden show that daily mobile gamers report higher confidence with technical tools. The Sea Hero Quest title, developed in partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK, collected data from 4.3 million players, contributing to dementia research.

The study draws on Nordicity data, Sensor Tower metrics, Newzoo and ESA figures, and a UK/Spain/Sweden youth survey conducted between January 1 and December 31 2025. The commissioned report aims to underscore the economic and social value of European mobile studios amid forthcoming regulatory scrutiny.