Analyzing the trends of Smartphone Game YouTubers in Japan for 2025

Spice Smart Research: Analysis of Smartphone Game YouTubers Trends for 2025

Spice Smart Inc. has conducted an in-depth analysis of video trends among smartphone game YouTubers for the year 2025 using data captured by their platform, LIVEOPSIS. This research is part of a series of reports delivered to LIVEOPSIS members, and this article provides a glimpse into some key findings from the study.

Overview of the Research

The research period spanned from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, focusing on content uploaded by YouTubers who specialize in gaming. The dataset included videos focused on smartphone games that had high audience engagement. Some points highlighted in the report include:
1. Increased diversity in channels and titles posted.
2. A rise in promotional efforts by overseas game producers.
3. The emergence of newly released titles using YouTubers for promotion.

Detail of the Research

The research examined various aspects of YouTube content such as the number of videos posted per game title, changes in average views, and engagement metrics on a monthly and yearly basis. Moreover, new titles released in 2025 were similarly analyzed to see how they fared in comparison with ongoing trends. An essential part of the research involved correlating the sales rankings of mobile games with the volume of YouTube content created around those titles.

For purposes of this report, game titles were classified as those that received extensive coverage by LIVEOPSIS. This cross-comparison helped identify which games were trending and which channels gained popularity with their content this year.

Highlights from 2025

The total number of videos uploaded reached an impressive 37,290, maintaining a steady level compared to the previous year. However, the number of titles being covered saw significant growth, nearly doubling from the previous year. Notably, the action RPG genres led the pack again, with popular titles such as Genshin Impact, Monster Strike, and new entries like Zenless Zone Zero and Narukami making waves. Also, card and competitive action games received increased coverage, a reflection of their rising popularity.

One standout finding was the emergence of diverse channels within the top creators, with game review channels becoming more prominent alongside traditional gameplay channels. Such diversification indicates broader interests from YouTube audiences seeking different content styles.

Promotion and Sales Analysis

In terms of promotional activity, major titles like Zenless Zone Zero, Genshin Impact, and Narukami appeared to lead the pack in terms of promotional posts. These titles, predominantly from international publishers, have seen an uptick in promotional strategies leveraging YouTubers. It was revealed that the 2025 analysis marks a notable increase in such aggressive outreach compared to previous years.

Particularly noteworthy is Narukami, which surged from being virtually absent in the previous year's rankings, now boasting an impressive 18th place. In terms of sales performance, it jumped from nowhere into the 46th position in the top 100 sales rankings for 2025. This progress is likely the result of heightened visibility via streaming, contributing positively to overall sales and awareness.

Conclusion

This release merely scratches the surface of the comprehensive insights available in the report, which includes detailed rankings per title, monthly trends, competitive analysis, and a close look at PR posting behaviors. For more exhaustive reports, these are exclusively provided to companies subscribing to LIVEOPSIS. To inquire further about LIVEOPSIS, reach out via the provided contact channels.

About Spice Smart Inc.

Specializing in mobile game market analysis, Spice Smart is dedicated to business support and matchmaking initiatives leveraging Japanese IP works. With research initiatives encompassing Japan, China, Korea, and the USA, their comprehensive analysis is crucial for game developers and marketers alike. For access to various services, including solutions designed for game operation, please visit their website at Spice Smart.

For inquiries related to this release or additional information: