Core Insights - Adjust's Gaming App Insights Report: 2026 Edition indicates a significant increase in global gaming app sessions in 2025, with strategy games experiencing a 57% year-over-year growth [1][1][1] - The report highlights a rising paid-to-organic ratio of 61% globally, reflecting a shift in user acquisition strategies towards deeper engagement and retention [1][1][1] Gaming App Trends - Slots, casino, and casual games saw the highest growth in installs, increasing by 46%, 22%, and 19% year-over-year respectively, while hyper casual, RPG, simulation, and word games also experienced growth [1][1][1] - Strategy games led in session growth, up 57% year-over-year, with casual and hyper casual sessions increasing by 37% and 31% respectively [1][1][1] - The MENA region reported a 2% growth in installs and a 7% rise in sessions [1][1][1] User Engagement and Retention - The report emphasizes the importance of retaining high-value players and optimizing marketing strategies to enhance user engagement [1][1][1] - Gaming App Tracking Transparency (ATT) opt-in rates reached 39% globally in Q1 2026, up from 38% in Q1 2025, indicating a positive trend in user consent for tracking [1][1][1] Industry Trends - Broader trends shaping mobile gaming in 2026 include direct-to-consumer (D2C) strategies, AI-generated creatives, live operations, reward-driven mechanics, and cross-platform strategies [1][1][1]