Buzz
There’s an ongoing debate about whether mobile games, particularly those from Zynga, can be considered 'real' video games. However, I firmly believe that a game is a game, regardless of the platform. Whether it’s on a smartphone, console, or PC, the essence remains the same. Interestingly, Snapchat has become an unexpected hub for gaming, with around 100 million users engaging in its games.
Snapchat’s gaming platform, though centered on quick, casual experiences, is impressively well-developed. With features like voice chat and easy-to-send gameplay invites, it even surpasses some traditional gaming platforms (*cough* Nintendo *cough*) in terms of accessibility and social interaction.
The true measure of any gaming service lies in its game library, and Snapchat doesn’t disappoint. Its collection spans various genres, including puzzles, life simulations, platformers, and even light action games. A standout feature is the ability to integrate 3D Snapchat Bitmoji avatars, allowing players to use personalized characters in certain games.
I particularly enjoy Alphabear Hustle, a distinctive word puzzle game reminiscent of Scrabble that can be played solo or with friends. What sets it apart is its village-building feature. By scoring points based on the words you create during timed puzzles, you can enhance and personalize a small village between rounds, drawing a loose comparison to Nintendo’s Animal Crossing, though on a smaller scale.
Another notable game is Tiny Royale, which adapts the popular battle royale mechanics of titles like
While Fortnite and PUBG offer mobile versions for a more strategic experience, Tiny Royale serves as an excellent introduction to the Battle Royale genre. It’s notably more captivating than Snapchat’s other shooter, Zombie Rescue Squad, based on my personal experience.
The platform boasts a diverse selection of games, with over a dozen currently available and at least seventeen more slated for release soon. With such variety, you’re bound to discover something that suits your taste.
A Guide to Playing Games on Snapchat
Launch Snapchat.
Navigate to the Chat menu by swiping.
Select a contact or group to initiate or continue a conversation. While some games are single-player, they must be accessed through a chat thread.
Click the rocket icon on the chat keyboard to access the game menu.
Browse the available games and tap the thumbnail of your choice to start. A short download may be required for first-time players, but it’s typically fast.
Once the game loads, you’re ready to play. (Performance may vary depending on your device and internet connection.)
To exit, tap the “X” icon to close the game and return to the chat.
