Playing games is recognized as the most energy-intensive use of personal computers and smartphones.
For example, a study from 2015 estimates that although gaming computers comprise just 2.5 percent of personal computers worldwide, they account for 20 percent of global computer energy use. And this does not take into account the energy consumption from other platforms and devices.
Players’ energy consumption is conventionally considered the responsibility of hardware producers and not the game producers. However, everyone must pitch in for a significant impact to happen.
What can you do?
Ideas and examples
- Optimize your game to require less energy while playing
- Incorporate an ‘eco-mode’ where players can choose a less energy-demanding way to play
- Nudge and encourage players to turn off devices after us
What have others done?
Selected blog posts
MAG Interactive’s process and considerations when offsetting their carbon emissions
Reducing your carbon emissions is an important part of becoming greener. But it can be hard to cut all emissions. Offsetting your emissions through green initiatives has been the way for MAG Interactive to make up for their negative impact on the climate.
Read more
Space Ape measured and reduced their carbon footprint
Here is their 4-step-process for you to copy
The London-based mobile games company Space Ape has chosen a quite hands-on approach to lessen their negative impact on the climate. They’ve decided to take the time and do the research on how you can measure and reduce the emissions of a game company – and they’re happy for you to copy their method.