Deconstructor of Fun

In this discussion, Jonathan Briskman, Marketing Insight Guru at Sensor Tower, dives into the tantalizing world of mobile gaming and app trends. He reveals surprising growth in in-app purchases and user engagement, even amid concerns of a mature market. Jonathan highlights the importance of localization, especially for cracking tough markets like Japan and South Korea. He also tackles the intriguing rise of hybrid apps and the growing phenomenon of digital fatigue, suggesting innovative solutions for engaging users in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Wilfrid Obeng, Co-founder and CTO of AudioMob, shares his remarkable journey from Goldman Sachs and Google to the gaming startup world. He discusses how AudioMob is transforming in-game advertising with audio and why they opted for Abu Dhabi over Silicon Valley to scale their team. Wilfrid highlights critical leadership lessons, hiring strategies for a diverse workforce, and the challenges of startup life. Discover the unique dynamics of building a performance culture and navigating the evolving landscape of ad monetization.

The hosts dive into the chaotic gaming landscape, dissecting the major Roblox acquisition and the potential of Battlefield to attract dormant fans. Adam reveals his Multiversus thesis while Phil grapples with the woes of Battlefield. They debate the evolving role of AI in games, questioning whether it's a flop or just too soon to tell. With a mix of humor and critique, they challenge the gaming industry's metaverse narratives and spotlight the need for innovation in character design and player engagement strategies.

This episode features insights from top industry professionals on player engagement, revenue models, and the challenges faced by new releases like Helldivers 2, First Descendant, and Once Human. Dive into in-depth discussions on successful PvE models, key strategies for game success, and the future of game monetization. Join Adam Telfer and a panel of experts as they explore the latest trends in PvE shooters and the evolving tools needed for effective LiveOps. Brought to you by Heroic Labs, AppsFlyer, Sensor Tower, and Xsolla. 02:31 Market Overview of PVE Shooters03:25 Recent Releases and Trends04:07 Revenue and Engagement07:54 PVE Live Service Challenges08:42 Helldivers 2: Success and Future13:54 The Competitive Landscape27:04 First Descendant and Once Human27:38 First Descendant's Elder Loop29:27 PvE Shooter Systems30:42 Helldivers 2: On The Way Out36:34 Warframe's Sustained Success40:13 Strategies for PvE Shooter Success45:52 The Future of PvE Shooters

The discussion kicks off with a critique of Matthew Ball's Metaverse predictions. The hosts dive into the FTC's settlement on loot boxes and its industry implications. Ubisoft's struggles come under the spotlight, alongside challenges faced by Habby in launching new games. There's also a lively analysis of marketing strategies, touching on how companies navigate community engagement and measure effectiveness. The conversation wraps up with insights into major tech players' motivations in the gaming landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Chris Hewish, President of Xsolla and former leader at gaming giants like Activision and DreamWorks, delves into the booming mobile gaming market projected to reach $98.7 billion. He unpacks emerging trends in regional markets, especially Africa and Latin America, and emphasizes the growing diversity among players. Hewish also discusses the implications of the Digital Markets Act, exploring new monetization avenues and the rise of direct-to-consumer sales, all while illustrating how gaming increasingly merges with mainstream entertainment.

Join Nadav Moshes from Playtika, Maxime Graux of Wooga, and Erno Kiiski of GameRefinery as they delve into effective Live Ops strategies. They discuss the power of understanding player motivations and how this fuels social events and collaborative gameplay. Listen in for innovative insights on personalized engagement, multi-stage missions, and gamified offers that drive monetization. The trio breaks down trends in the gaming landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptation and iteration to keep players invested long-term.

The hosts dive into TikTok's gaming challenges and Marvel Snap's shutdown, revealing the complexities of scaling global hits. They analyze Netflix’s game strategy and the surprising comeback of Solitaire in the nostalgia economy. Workforce cuts at Huuuge Games raise concerns amid the rise of Chinese developers. Bonfire Studios announces a new game, while Matthew Ball shares insights on shifting market dynamics. Expect a critical look at the industry's future, innovation, and growth strategies as they navigate these evolving trends.

Alexandra Takei, a dynamic force in gaming and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, discusses her journey from a marketing background to game development. She shares insights on bridging business and creativity, the significance of mentorship, and the challenges of raising capital in a competitive industry. Alexandra emphasizes the role of empathy in leadership and the importance of building inclusive teams. Her experiences at Blizzard and in venture capital offer valuable lessons for aspiring professionals in the fast-paced gaming world.

Bold predictions for mobile gaming in 2025 take center stage, while Nintendo Switch 2 leaks stir excitement. The hosts analyze hyper-casual games, revisit significant industry moments, and celebrate the winners of the Golden Twig Awards. Marvel Rivals' success and impactful investments are discussed, along with the challenges faced by major companies like Ubisoft. Listeners share feedback, adding to a lively wrap-up filled with humor and insights. The podcast balances serious reflections with lighthearted anecdotes, keeping the audience engaged.