Snake
Nokia's killer app
Pre-installed on Nokia phones, Snake became one of the most-played games in history, demonstrating that compelling gameplay needs minimal technology.
Overview
Snake wasn’t new when Nokia included it on the 6110—the concept dated to 1976’s Blockade. But Nokia’s implementation reached more players than any game before it. Bored commuters worldwide guided growing snakes through tiny screens. The game proved mobile phones could be gaming platforms and that simple mechanics could transcend technological limitations.
Fast facts
- Version: Nokia’s implementation by Taneli Armanto.
- First phone: Nokia 6110 (1997).
- Concept origin: Blockade arcade game (1976).
- Reach: pre-installed on 400+ million Nokia phones.
- Gameplay: eat dots, grow longer, avoid walls and yourself.
- Legacy: countless versions, remakes, and variations.
Universal design
Why it worked everywhere:
- One-button input: simple directional control.
- Instant understanding: rules obvious within seconds.
- Escalating challenge: length creates difficulty.
- No end state: play until you fail.
Mobile gaming pioneer
Platform significance:
- Proving ground: phones could run games.
- Time-filler: perfect for short sessions.
- Universal reach: phones everywhere had it.
- Industry foundation: led to mobile gaming explosion.