Mobile Augmented Reality: A Systematic Review of Current Research and the Untapped Potential of Interactive Marker-Based Games

Augmented Reality (AR) technology has transformed the gaming experience, providing players with distinctive and immersive experiences that integrate virtual elements with the physical world. Mobile Augmented Reality (MAR) has reshaped the use of AR technology by making it easily accessible to the general public through smartphones, significantly increasing user engagement and adoption that transcend traditional gaming paradigms. To evaluate the current state of mobile AR games research, we conducted a systematic literature review to analyse the landscape of mobile AR gaming. Our review identified three recurring themes: (1) recent advancements in mobile AR technology, (2) the effectiveness of marker-based games, and (3) the potential applications and innovations involving 3D interactive markers as the future direction for mobile AR. By highlighting these themes, we aim to bridge the gap between mobile AR games’ potential and practical applications, setting the stage for future innovations and enhanced user experiences. Our findings underscore the necessity for ongoing research to uncover new opportunities with interactive markers in the mobile AR gaming domain.