Entertainment: Why are the world's top games publishers making solitaire games and has Playtika already won?

Why it is the topic trending:

• Significant Market Size: Solitaire games on mobile generated a record-breaking 347 million downloads in 2024 and $470.2 million in gross player spending, demonstrating a substantial market.

• Consistent Growth in Installs: Solitaire game installs have risen for seven consecutive years, indicating ongoing and growing popularity.

• Involvement of Major Publishers: Industry giants like Playtika, Scopely, Tripledot, King, and Zynga are all actively participating in the mobile solitaire market.

• Contrasting Monetization Strategies: Some games focus on innovative gameplay and in-app purchases (IAP), while others rely heavily on ad revenue.

• New High-Profile Entrants: Major players like King (Candy Crush Solitaire) and Playtika (Disney Solitaire, Grandma's Solitaire Secrets) have recently launched or soft-launched new titles, signaling continued interest in the genre.

• Success of Innovative Variations: Games like Solitaire Grand Harvest (Playtika) have achieved massive success by blending solitaire mechanics with puzzle-like level design and meta-game elements.

• Persistence of Traditional Solitaire: Despite the popularity of variations like TriPeaks, traditional versions of solitaire still attract a large number of downloads, primarily monetized through ads.

• Consultant's Insights: Game design consultant Jakub Remiar provides expert analysis on the market dynamics, monetization strategies, and the success of different titles.

• Acquisitions and Market Consolidation: Playtika's acquisition of Supertreat and Scopely's acquisition of GSN Games highlight the strategic importance of the solitaire genre for major publishers.

• Future Potential and Competition: The article explores whether there is still room for new entrants in the market and whether Playtika has established a dominant position.

Overview:

The article explores the thriving market for mobile solitaire games, which continues to attract major game publishers despite the increasing sophistication of the mobile gaming landscape. In 2024, the genre saw a record 347 million downloads and $470.2 million in player spending, with installs rising for the seventh consecutive year. Industry titans like Playtika, Scopely, Tripledot, King, and Zynga employ different strategies, ranging from innovative free-to-play models with in-app purchases (as seen in Playtika's immensely successful Solitaire Grand Harvest) to more traditional experiences heavily reliant on ad revenue (like Zynga's Solitaire). Game design consultant Jakub Remiar suggests a division between these "innovators" focused on player spending and "stale" classic experiences driven by ad views. The article delves into the performance of key titles, including the enduring popularity of TriPeaks variations, the recent entry of major IPs like King's Candy Crush Solitaire and Playtika's Disney Solitaire, and the consultant's view that Playtika has largely won the battle for dominance in this surprisingly resilient genre.

Detailed Findings:

• Record Downloads and Spending: 347 million downloads and $470.2 million spending in 2024. Spending nearly doubled since 2019. 2025 showing even stronger early performance.

• Solitaire Grand Harvest Leads: Top earner with $1.5 billion lifetime player spending, generating 63% of all 2024 spending in the genre. Employs TriPeaks, level-based puzzle design, and strong meta-game.

• Tiki Solitaire TriPeaks Pioneered: Launched in 2014 (before Grand Harvest), acquired by Scopely. Earned over $830 million in lifetime player spending.

• Zynga's Ad-Driven Strategy: Acquired four traditional solitaire games in 2017. Their "Solitaire" title has the second-most downloads in their catalog (128.7 million) but low player spending ($330,000).

• King's Candy Crush Solitaire: Launched in 2025, leveraging a major IP, with 7.7 million downloads and $7.8 million spending in first four months. Consultant deems it a "major failure." Key differentiator is the "Hold Slot."

• Disney Solitaire (Playtika/SuperPlay): Launched in 2025, leveraging Disney IP, with 7.7 million downloads and $25 million spending since April launch. Consultant suggests its success over King's title is due to the absence of the "Hold Slot."

• Tripledot's Solitaire.com: Low player spending ($121,000) but high downloads (48.6 million), relying on ad revenue.

• MobilityWare's Solitaire (iOS): Traditional approach, launched in 2008, with over $15 million player spending on iOS alone.

• Balatro: Premium game (not free-to-play) combining solitaire with other card game elements, generated $25.8 million on mobile.

• Consultant's Prediction: Solitaire market to get "super hot" in 2025 with new high-profile launches. However, he believes Playtika has mostly won the battle for dominance.

Key success factors of product (trend):

• Familiarity and Accessibility: Solitaire is a well-known and easy-to-understand game.

• Adaptation to Mobile: The game translates well to touchscreens and short play sessions.

• Variations Like TriPeaks: Adding puzzle-like elements and progression systems enhances engagement and monetization potential.

• Strong Meta-Game Integration: Features like collecting items, decorating, or following a storyline can increase retention and spending.

• Leveraging IP: Using popular brands like Disney and Candy Crush can attract a large initial audience.

• Effective Monetization Strategies: Combining IAP for boosters and progression with ad revenue.

• Organic Discovery: Players searching for "solitaire" in app stores drive significant downloads for traditional, ad-supported games.

Key Takeaway:

The mobile solitaire game market is a significant and growing space, dominated by Playtika's innovative free-to-play titles but also supporting a large number of traditional, ad-supported games from other major publishers. While new high-profile entrants are attempting to break into the market, experts believe Playtika has established a strong leading position.

Main trend:

The main trend is the Continued Strength and Evolution of the Mobile Solitaire Genre, with major publishers actively competing through diverse gameplay mechanics and monetization strategies, catering to both players seeking innovative puzzle-like experiences and those preferring classic, ad-supported versions.

Description of the trend:

Solitaire's Digital Resilience: This trend describes the remarkable ability of the classic card game Solitaire to not only survive but thrive in the modern mobile gaming market. Publishers are recognizing its enduring appeal and are investing in various approaches, from reimagining the core gameplay with engaging puzzle elements and progression systems to offering straightforward, ad-supported versions that appeal to players seeking a familiar pastime. The trend showcases the coexistence of innovation and tradition within a single genre, highlighting its broad appeal and lasting relevance in the increasingly competitive mobile gaming landscape.

What is consumer motivation:

• Nostalgia and Relaxation: Players seeking a familiar and calming game to pass the time.

• Puzzle Solving and Progression: Enjoying the challenge of TriPeaks variations and the satisfaction of level completion.

• Free-to-Play Accessibility: Attracted to games that are free to download and play, with optional spending.

• Brand Affinity: Drawn to games featuring recognizable IPs like Disney and Candy Crush.

• Variety of Experiences: Choosing between traditional solitaire and more gamified variations.

What is driving trend:

• Universal Appeal of Solitaire: Its simple rules and engaging gameplay have a broad audience.

• Mobile Gaming Growth: The overall expansion of the mobile games market provides a large player base.

• Successful Monetization Models: Both IAP-driven and ad-driven strategies have proven effective.

• Low Development Barrier for Classic Versions: Easier and less expensive to create traditional solitaire games.

• Opportunity for Innovation: Publishers continue to find new ways to reimagine the classic gameplay.

What is motivation beyond the trend:

• Cognitive Stimulation: Solitaire can be a mentally engaging and strategic game.

• Stress Relief: Many players find it to be a relaxing and solitary activity.

Description of consumers article is referring to:

Based on the article, the consumers this trend refers to include:

• Casual Mobile Gamers: Looking for easy-to-learn and engaging games for short play sessions.

• Solitaire Enthusiasts: Fans of the classic card game in its various forms.

• Free-to-Play Players: Willing to engage with ads and potentially make in-app purchases for progression or convenience.

• Brand Fans: Attracted to games featuring familiar characters and universes.

• Puzzle Game Players: Enjoying the level-based challenges of TriPeaks variations.

• What is their age? Likely a wide age range, given the enduring popularity of solitaire. However, the engagement with puzzle-like variations and monetization suggests a significant younger demographic.

• What is their gender? Not specifically mentioned in the article.

• What is their income? The success of free-to-play games with IAP indicates a willingness to spend among some players, while the popularity of ad-driven games suggests a large audience that prefers not to spend money.

• What is their lifestyle: Likely individuals who enjoy mobile gaming as a pastime during commutes, breaks, or leisure time.

• What are their shopping preferences in the category article is referring to? Many are likely looking for free games with engaging gameplay. Some are willing to spend money on in-app purchases to enhance their experience.

• Are they low, occasional or frequent category shoppers? Could range from occasional players looking for a simple game to frequent players engaging with the daily challenges and progression systems of more complex titles.

• What are their general shopping preferences-how they shop products, shopping motivations? Convenience and accessibility are likely key. For free-to-play games, the perceived value and enjoyment versus the intrusiveness of ads or the cost of IAP are important factors.

• What kind of products they like: Free mobile games, puzzle games, card games, and potentially games featuring recognizable brands or characters.

Conclusion: The mobile solitaire market demonstrates the enduring appeal of classic gameplay, with major publishers finding success through both innovative variations and traditional, ad-supported offerings, catering to a diverse range of players.

Conclusions:

The mobile solitaire game market remains a vibrant and lucrative space, attracting significant investment and competition from major publishers. The enduring popularity of the classic card game, coupled with the flexibility of the mobile platform, has allowed for diverse interpretations and monetization strategies. Playtika's success with Solitaire Grand Harvest highlights the potential of blending traditional solitaire mechanics with engaging puzzle-like progression and a compelling meta-game. However, the continued high download numbers for traditional, ad-supported solitaire titles from publishers like Zynga and Tripledot demonstrate that there is still a significant audience for a more straightforward experience. While breaking into the top ranks may be challenging for new entrants, the consistent growth of the genre suggests ongoing opportunities for innovation and success, particularly for those who can either tap into underserved niches or discover new engaging twists on the timeless gameplay.

Implications for brands:

• Opportunity for Established Gaming Publishers: Solitaire offers a relatively low-risk entry point or expansion of their mobile game portfolio.

• Potential for Strong ROI: Both IAP-driven and ad-driven models can generate substantial revenue.

• Value of Innovation: Reimagining classic gameplay can lead to massive success, as seen with Solitaire Grand Harvest.

• Reach a Broad Audience: Solitaire appeals to a wide demographic of mobile gamers.

Implication for society:

• Enduring Appeal of Simple Games: Even in a market dominated by complex titles, classic games retain their popularity.

• Mobile Gaming as a Significant Form of Entertainment: Millions of people around the world turn to mobile games like solitaire for leisure and relaxation.

Implications for consumers:

• Wide Variety of Solitaire Options: Players can choose from traditional versions to more complex, puzzle-like variations.

• Different Monetization Models: Options for both free-to-play with ads/IAP and potentially premium experiences.

Implication for Future:

• Continued Innovation in Solitaire Gameplay: Expect to see more attempts to blend solitaire with other game genres and meta-game elements.

• Persistence of Classic Solitaire: The traditional form of the game will likely remain a popular choice, particularly for ad-supported models.

• Potential for Niche Audiences: Developers might target specific demographics or interests within the solitaire genre.

Consumer Trend:

Preference for Accessible and Engaging Mobile Games: Consumers continue to seek out mobile games that are easy to pick up and play but offer enough depth or progression to remain engaging.

Consumer Sub Trend:

Coexistence of Innovation and Tradition in Gaming: Players enjoy both new twists on classic games and faithful recreations of familiar experiences.

Big Social Trend:

Mobile Gaming as Mainstream Entertainment: Mobile devices are a primary platform for gaming for a vast number of people worldwide.

Worldwide Social Trend:

Global Popularity of Card Games: Solitaire is just one example of the enduring worldwide appeal of card-based games in digital formats.

Social Drive:

Seeking Relaxation, Entertainment, and Cognitive Stimulation Through Games: Mobile games like solitaire offer a convenient way to fulfill these needs.

Learnings for brands to use in 2025:

• Consider the Enduring Appeal of Classics: Don't overlook established game genres with broad recognition.

• Explore Hybrid Gameplay Models: Blending familiar mechanics with new elements can attract a wide audience.

• Understand Different Monetization Strategies: Choose a model that aligns with the game design and target audience.

Strategy Recommendations for brands to follow in 2025:

• Develop Innovative Twists on Classic Games: Look for opportunities to reimagine familiar gameplay.

• Consider Both IAP and Ad-Supported Models: Diversify monetization strategies based on player preferences.

• Leverage Familiar IPs for New Entrants: Using recognizable brands can provide a competitive advantage.

Final sentence (key concept) describing main trend from article (which is a summary of all trends specified), and what brands & companies should do in 2025 to benefit from trend and how to do it:

The enduring consumer trend of seeking accessible and engaging mobile games ensures the continued strength of the mobile solitaire genre, necessitating that brands and companies in 2025 consider both innovative reimagining of classic gameplay with effective monetization and straightforward, ad-supported versions to cater to the diverse preferences of a large and active player base.

Final Note:

• Core Trend: Continued Strength and Evolution of Mobile Solitaire: Classic game thrives on mobile with diverse approaches.

• Core Strategy: Explore Both Innovative and Traditional Models: Cater to different player preferences and monetization opportunities.

• Core Industry Trend: Mobile Gaming as Mainstream Entertainment: Huge market for accessible and engaging games.

• Core Consumer Motivation: Seeking Relaxation, Entertainment, and Cognitive Stimulation Through Familiar and New Mobile Games.

Final Conclusion:

The mobile solitaire market proves that classic games can not only survive but flourish in the digital age. The success of different publishers through various strategies highlights the enduring appeal of the genre and the diverse ways in which players engage with it. While innovation can lead to significant financial success, the straightforward appeal of traditional solitaire ensures its continued relevance. For publishers looking to enter or expand within the mobile gaming market, solitaire remains a surprisingly robust and promising opportunity.

Core Trend Detailed:

The core trend of Continued Strength and Evolution of the Mobile Solitaire Genre highlights the remarkable resilience and adaptability of a centuries-old card game in the dynamic landscape of mobile gaming. Far from being a relic of the past, solitaire has found a vibrant new life on smartphones and tablets, attracting millions of players globally. This trend is characterized by a dual nature: on one hand, there is the enduring popularity of the traditional version, often offered as a simple, ad-supported experience that provides a familiar and relaxing pastime. On the other hand, the genre has seen significant evolution through innovative reimaginings like TriPeaks, which integrate puzzle-like mechanics, progression systems, and engaging meta-game elements to enhance player retention and monetization through in-app purchases. Major game publishers are actively participating in this market, recognizing its broad appeal and the potential for substantial revenue generation through these diverse approaches. This trend demonstrates the power of combining classic gameplay with modern mobile game design principles to cater to a wide spectrum of player preferences, from those seeking simple nostalgia to those looking for deeper, more engaging experiences with a familiar foundation.

Key Characteristics of the Core trend:

• High Download Numbers: Millions of installs annually across app stores.

• Significant Player Spending: Demonstrates a substantial and engaged player base.

• Innovation in Gameplay: Variations like TriPeaks have expanded the genre's appeal.

• Persistence of Traditional Solitaire: A large audience still seeks out the classic experience.

• Diverse Monetization Strategies: Success found in both IAP and ad-supported models.

Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend:

• Consistent top rankings in app store charts for solitaire games.

• Continued investment and new title releases from major publishers.

• Strong community of players and online searches for solitaire games.

How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior:

• Players have a wide range of solitaire experiences to choose from on mobile.

• They are willing to engage with different monetization models depending on their preference for gameplay depth and cost.

• Familiarity with the classic game lowers the barrier to entry for new mobile gamers.

Implications Across the Ecosystem:

• Mobile game developers have a proven market to target with both traditional and innovative solitaire games.

• Advertising platforms benefit from the high download numbers of ad-supported titles.

• App stores continue to host a popular and profitable genre.

Strategic Forecast:

The mobile solitaire genre is expected to remain strong and continue to evolve, with further innovation in gameplay mechanics and monetization strategies likely to emerge.

Areas of innovation:

• Solitaire with Roguelike Elements: Introducing a mode where players embark on runs with randomized card layouts and unique challenges, with elements of permadeath and progression through unlockable abilities or starting conditions, adding replayability for players seeking a more strategic and less predictable experience.

  • Detail: Each run could present a distinct set of hurdles, requiring players to adapt their strategies and making each playthrough feel fresh and engaging, appealing to those who enjoy the challenge of roguelike games within the familiar framework of solitaire.

• Socially Competitive Solitaire Leagues and Tournaments: Implementing asynchronous or real-time multiplayer modes where players can compete against each other in solitaire matches, with leaderboards, leagues, and regular tournaments offering rewards and fostering a sense of community and competitive spirit.

  • Detail: This could range from casual score-based competitions to more strategic head-to-head matches with customized rule sets, appealing to players who enjoy the solitary gameplay but also crave social interaction and recognition.

• Narrative-Driven Solitaire Adventures: Integrating a compelling storyline and characters into the solitaire gameplay, with progress through levels or stages unlocking new chapters or revealing more of the narrative, providing an engaging context for players beyond the core card mechanics.

  • Detail: This could involve different themes or genres, from fantasy and mystery to historical or sci-fi, with the solitaire gameplay serving as the core mechanic for advancing the story and solving puzzles within the narrative.

• Solitaire with Asymmetrical Multiplayer Elements: Introducing innovative multiplayer modes where players engage with each other in indirect ways within a shared solitaire game, such as one player setting challenges or obstacles for another to overcome in their own game.

  • Detail: This could create a unique social experience where players interact and compete without directly playing against each other in real-time, offering a novel twist on the traditional solitary nature of the game.

• Procedurally Generated Solitaire Variations: Developing algorithms that can create entirely new rule sets and variations of solitaire on the fly, offering a constantly fresh and unpredictable gameplay experience.

  • Detail: This could cater to players who have mastered traditional solitaire and are looking for novel and challenging ways to play, with the game itself providing an endless stream of unique solitaire puzzles to solve.

• Integration with Live Events and Seasons: Tying in-game events and themes to real-world holidays, seasons, or even trending cultural moments, offering limited-time challenges, rewards, and cosmetic items to keep the game feeling dynamic and relevant.

  • Detail: This can create a sense of urgency and excitement, encouraging players to return to the game regularly to participate in themed events and collect exclusive rewards.

Final Thought:

The enduring success of mobile solitaire highlights the power of timeless gameplay and the adaptability of classic games in the digital age. By understanding the diverse preferences of players and continuing to innovate within the genre, publishers can ensure that solitaire remains a cornerstone of the mobile gaming market for years to come.

Source: https://www.pocketgamer.biz/why-are-the-worlds-top-games-publishers-making-solitaire-games-and-has-playtika-already-won/