A report from ComScore indicates that mobile gaming is on the rise – and the pace at which smartphone users are downloading games is pretty brisk. Six out of ten devices used for mobile downloads in 2008 were smartphones, with iPhone being the undisputed leader!

Going by the ComScore data, the number of users, who downloaded at least one game to their cell phone in 2008, was 8.5 million - which comprised 3.8 percent of the total of mobile subscribers - indicating a 17 percent increase in game downloads.

Nearly 14 percent of the games downloaded for cell phones were by Apple iPhone owners. ComScore figures reveal that, on the whole, 32.4 percent of iPhone users downloaded a game. Undoubtedly, the iPhone is exceedingly becoming a rage, what with its robust iPhone processor, and its touchscreen and 3-D graphics capabilities!

Another reason why game downloads on the iPhone are on the increase is the amalgamation of the App Store, which helps users browse, purchase, download, and install games much more easily on iPhone than on alternative platforms. Popular game developers like Electronic Arts, LucasArts, and Sega too are looking towards capitalizing on this market.

Commenting on the success formula of iPhone, ComScore senior analyst Mark Donovan said: “As the mobile phone has evolved into a better platform for both playing and merchandising games, the games being offered have also been improved, drawing in a broader user base.”