Critically reviewing mobile game ads
"Perfection" is too mild a term to describe the main subject of this blog post. While film, television, music, and art strive to define greatness and delve into what it means to be human, they pale in comparison to what has been created in the realm of mobile game advertising.
Man was put on Earth to do one thing and one thing only: to experience the golden age of mobile game advertising.
For the past month, in preparation for this blog post, I saved every mobile game ad I received on my phone. I did this by liking as many ads as I could, so my algorithms across all apps thought I was in love with these advertisements (which I am). Every time I saw an ad, I sent it to my friend who was unaware of my motives. For this research to be successful, I couldn't treat him like a friend, but as a Google Drive. Over the past month, I've compiled the most absurd ads I've come across on Instagram and YouTube. I won't cover the well-known ones like Raid Shadow Legends, but will instead focus on some of the more extreme ads that my algorithm has discovered. I'll then provide a review, rating their artistic vision on a scale of 1-10.
1. Guardians of Claudia: “We’re Sorry”
Starting us off is one of my personal favorites: an ad that is deeply emotional and persuasive. Authenticity is key in advertising, and nothing is more authentic than five random strangers apologizing for releasing a mobile game four years too late that no one has heard of. The stirring music reminiscent of pharmaceutical commercials, and the excessive bowing is guaranteed to evoke emotions. My favorite moment is at 0:18, where the woman's audio is much too quiet compared to the music. We accept your apology, Guardians of Claudia.
Rating: 8/10
2. Royal Match “Rick Hoffman from Suits”
I've never watched Suits, but I think it's safe to say that this short clip contains more creativity and acting talent than the entire series. While I'm all for celebrities making money, this ad seems to be a new low. The first-person angle and the way the actor grabs you by the shoulders with a commanding tone makes it hard to look away. I wish the ad was longer, as it doesn't mention whether the game has ads or if a wifi connection is required. Thanks Rick Hoffman, I hope the Academy will keep this in mind.
Rating: 6/10
3. Call of War 1942 “Is this US Army Propaganda?”
When I watch a mobile game ad, I consider two things: the fun factor of the gameplay and the potential for the American Military-Industrial Complex to indoctrinate me with their "America First" ideology. I finally found a game that satisfies both, and I salute the United States of America.
Rating: 7/10
4. Train Station 2 “The Importance of Mental Health”
Look at that thumbnail and then watch this video. Do you feel relaxed? Do you feel calm? This game offers a soothing solution for life's stresses. Although the choice of actor for a slow-paced, tranquil experience may seem odd, his persuasive delivery combined with game footage that just looks like a desktop wallpaper for train enthusiasts makes this a must-have for the typical mobile gamer.
Rating 6/10
5. Figure Fantasy “Joker”
I actually remember this ad showing up on my YouTube around a year ago, and it has stuck with me ever since. I love this ad. I get chills everytime at 0:14, and don’t even get me started on when he mentions how he’s got Yoko Kasumi levelled up. It's clear who the target demographic is for ads like these: young men in flannel who enjoy spending their money on anime gacha games, who were likely disappointed when "Joker" didn't win Best Picture. All in all, I must admit that I thought the Joker actor did a great job. He brought a level of intensity that was unmatched by the other actors, you cannot doubt his commitment that’s for sure. I hope he gets his first leading role soon.
Rating: 9/10 (Best Actor Award)
