As the year draws to an end, it's time to look back at what happened in the world of mobile gaming during 2009.

Equally, the lessons of history are useless without a future to demonstration what we've learnt, so as well as asking various notables about their view on the past 12 months, we're also getting them to look ahead to 2010.

You can see the full list of our end of year interviews here.

Having previously sold his photo service company to and then worked for HP, Markus Nigrin started mobile game and app developer Windmill Apps in February 2009.

He's released games for iPhone, Android and BlackBerry, and is a valued commentator in iPhone indie developers Twitter circles.

Pocket Gamer: What was the most significant event of 2009?

Markus Nigrin: The Droid, not for being an iPhone killer but for refueling the discussion on alternatives. In terms of iPhone, the success of Eliminate Pro's business model.

For broader gaming, the fact that retail sales of classic video games were above expectations in 2009 while download sales were below (meaning: we have a long way to go and never underestimate retail), plus the success of Farmville showing unprecedented outreach to a classically non-gaming audience.

What was the most significant event for Windmill Apps?

The unexpectedly strong performance of the free  advertisement-based versions of our games.

What was your favourite mobile game of 2009?

Peggle for its brilliant execution and attention to detail, Bejeweled 2 for highest replay value and its well thought through Facebook integration (sadly a rarity these days), Jet Car Stunts for making me finally like accelerometer controls, and geoDefense Swarm for particles!

What do you predict will be the most important trends in 2010?

More classic business behaviour to survive the overcrowded iPhone market: sequels, collaborations, big brand games, cross-platform development due to sheer economic pressure

And, despite all the madness, more growth. But fewer will benefit.

If you could enforce one New Year's resolution, what would it be?

Make great, outstanding games!

Thanks to Markus for his time.

You can follow Marcus on his blog and via twitter.