As 2014 begins to fade into memory, we're taking a look back at the events that have dominated the last 12 months in mobile gaming.
As such, we've asked the industry's great and good to give us their take on the year, as well as predicting the trends that will dominate in 2015.
A serial entrepreneur, Reinout te Brake is the managing partner of GWC Investments, a specialist gaming consultancy and seed investor. Companies he's currently involved with include GetSocial, iQU, SpliGames and Tinyloot.
Pocket Gamer: What was the most significant news in 2014?
Reinout te Brake: The IPO of King. It was maybe criticized a lot, but the games industry needs exits like this.
It is good for the investors that backed King and will motivate other investors to invest to in the gaming space.
That was the most significant event in terms of your companies during 2014?
The whole ongoing discussion about King.com and trademarks.
What was your favourite mobile game of the year?
MMX Racing from Hutch Games. It got me hooked. When a friend said, 'You gonna love this one', I never thought I would, but I did!
What do you predict will be the most important markets in 2015?
It's still Europe and USA, but with one company we are eyeballing for Asia.
What do you predict will be the most important trends in 2015?
Your audience is your ambassador.Reinout te Brake
Social engagement is crucial. Obvious I am saying that as I currently leading GetSocial. But your audience is your ambassador, they will (smart) invite other players, engage with them which makes them loyal and lowers cost per install.
The mobile games space is getting crowded, you need smart tools to make yourself visible within your target audience.
What's your New Year's resolution and what resolution would you enforce on the industry?
I am very bad with these kind of things. For me and the industry the same; Do good, be good!
Thanks to Reinout for his time.
You can check out all of our 2014 in Review interviews here.
