In this episode, we are focusing on the game Dark and Darker. We discuss its mechanics, survival elements, class systems, and monetization strategies. The conversation also touches on the trends in mobile gaming and the importance of community engagement for game longevity. At the end, we share insights on the game's hype and its potential impact on the gaming landscape. --------------------------------------- Ready to transform your game from a hybrid to a hybrid business? Enter the SuperHybrid competition from December 2nd to January 30th for a chance to scale your game with epic publishing support from Supersonic full team of experts, up to $10K monthly while you iterate, $30K in bonuses when you hit milestones - and even more ways to win! Plus, they’re non-recoupable. Don't miss out. Submit your game Now! Register here: https://supersonic.com/superhybrid/ --------------------------------------- This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/aDMkY559Vu4 Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg --------------------------------------- PVX Partners offers non-dilutive funding for game developers. Go to: https://pvxpartners.com/ They can help you access the most effective form of growth capital once you have the metrics to back it. - Scale fast - Keep your shares - Drawdown only as needed - Have PvX take downside risk alongside you + Work with a team entirely made up of ex-gaming operators and investors --------------------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Gaming Landscape 02:57 Exploring Dark and Darker: Game Mechanics 05:46 Survival and Extraction Gameplay 09:06 Class Systems and Character Progression 11:53 Monetization Strategies in Gaming 14:49 Mobile Gaming Trends and Predictions 18:07 Community Engagement and Game Longevity 20:59 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Dark and Darker features unique survival and extraction gameplay mechanics. Class systems in games enhance player engagement and strategy. Mobile gaming is becoming a significant focus for developers. Community engagement is crucial for the longevity of games. The thrill of gameplay is heightened by the risk of losing everything. Monetization can be tied to gameplay mechanics, such as fear of loss. The success of a game can be influenced by its hype and community support. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai

In this episode, Felix Braberg dives deep into the mobile mediation market, exploring its history, the evolution of mobile advertising, and the key players in the mediation space. He discusses the importance of ad revenue, how it is calculated, and best practices for app developers to maximize their earnings. He also covers strategies for soft launching apps and optimizing ad stacks as developers scale their operations. --------------------------------------- 101 ad monetization guide https://lancaric.substack.com/p/getting-started-with-ad-revenue-applovin https://lancaric.substack.com/p/everything-you-need-to-know-about https://lancaric.substack.com/p/getting-started-with-ad-revenue-unity --------------------------------------- This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/Q9W04l1u8UI Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mobile Mediation and Ad Revenue 03:05 The Evolution of Mobile Advertising 05:48 The Rise of Mediation Platforms 09:07 Understanding Mediation Platforms: Pros and Cons 11:59 How Ad Revenue is Calculated 14:59 Best Practices for Ad Networks 17:53 Strategies for Soft Launching Apps 20:46 Scaling and Ad Stack Optimization --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Mobile mediation is crucial for maximizing ad revenue. The App Store's launch in 2008 revolutionized app discoverability. AdMob was the first to show ads in mobile apps. Mediation platforms help developers get better ad prices. ECPM and fill rates are key to understanding ad revenue. Competition among ad networks increases revenue potential. Soft launches require a focus on ad impressions over ECPM. Scaling requires a more sophisticated ad stack. Understanding user behavior is essential for ad success. The mobile advertising landscape is constantly evolving. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai Felix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

In this episode, we explore the latest trends shaping the gaming industry, focusing on user acquisition strategies, game performance metrics, and the evolving impact of advertising channels. We also explore the rise of new games, the top UA advertisers, the dynamics of real-money gaming, and how platforms like TikTok and Unity influence marketing and development. Packed with insights, we discuss top spenders and tackle the unique challenges of navigating the competitive December gaming market. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Podcast: Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gaming Trends and Insights 03:11 Inspector Budget: Analyzing Top Spenders 06:06 Deep Dive into Game Performance Metrics 09:08 Exploring User Acquisition Strategies 11:54 The Rise of New Games and Market Dynamics 14:56 Understanding Advertising Channels and Their Impact 17:53 Real Money Gaming and Its Growth 21:00 The Role of TikTok in Game Marketing 24:03 Unity and Its Influence on Game Development 26:45 Conclusion and Future Trends in Gaming --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Understanding the top spenders in the market can provide valuable insights for developers. December is a challenging month for game revenues due to increased competition. TikTok is a crucial platform for game marketing, reaching diverse audiences. Unity's influence on game development is growing, but its effectiveness in user acquisition is questioned. Analyzing game performance metrics is essential for understanding market dynamics. Effective advertising strategies can significantly impact a game's success. Engaging with the community for feedback can help improve content and strategies. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai Felix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

In this episode, we dive into the latest developments in the gaming world, focusing on Path of Exile 2. We explore the game's mechanics, its free-to-play model, and the historical context of the franchise. Our discussion also touches on player engagement, game balance, and community feedback, offering insights into the current state and future of the game. Together, we unpack the intricacies of Path of Exile 2, delving into gameplay elements like solo self-found options, microtransactions, and the cosmetic economy. We examine the convenience of stash tabs, trading mechanics, and the in-game economy's dynamics, including inflation and player retention strategies. Additionally, we highlight the skill system's evolution, the PEO2 endgame's complexity, and how the free-to-play model and interoperability between the first and second games in the series shape the player experience. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/_yvviU7bbUs --------------------------------------- PVX Partners offers non-dilutive funding for game developers. Go to: https://pvxpartners.com/ They can help you access the most effective form of growth capital once you have the metrics to back it. - Scale fast - Keep your shares - Draw down only as needed - Have PvX take downside risk alongside you + Work with a team entirely made up of ex-gaming operators and investors --------------------------------------- Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Gaming Landscape 04:49 Exploring Path of Exile 2 11:40 The Evolution of Game Mechanics 18:20 Endgame Dynamics and Player Engagement 24:28 Challenges and Community Feedback 27:37 Game Development Insights and Future Plans 30:05 Microtransactions and Cosmetic Economy 33:50 Utility and Convenience in Gameplay 39:05 Trading and Economic Systems 41:53 Skill System and Gameplay Mechanics 45:06 Competition and Market Positioning 51:47 Free-to-Play Model and Player Engagement --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Path of Exile 2 is currently in early access with a focus on endgame content. The game has a rich history and community-driven development. Community feedback plays a significant role in game development. The economy in Path of Exile 2 is experiencing inflation issues. Microtransactions in Path of Exile 2 are not just cosmetic; they provide utility. Stash tabs enhance convenience and organization for players. Trading mechanics are essential for player engagement and economy. The in-game economy experiences inflation cycles that affect item value. Competitive play is intense, with players striving for top ranks. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric

In this episode, our friend John Wright discusses his predictions for the gaming industry in 2025, covering a range of topics from the rise of anime games to the impact of AI on game development. He emphasizes the importance of direct-to-consumer models and alternative stores while also addressing the challenges of privacy and user acquisition. He highlights the evolving gaming landscape and the strategies developers will need to adopt to succeed in the coming years. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelist: John Wright Youtube: https://youtu.be/UHDcP1jdYIk Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gaming Trends and Predictions 02:44 The Rise of Anime Games 05:11 Big Publishers vs. Small Studios 08:59 The Evolution of Hybrid Casual Games 11:53 Transmedia and Intellectual Property in Gaming 16:08 The Impact of AI on Game Development 20:43 The Future of Walled Gardens in Gaming 23:25 Privacy Challenges in User Acquisition 25:51 Direct-to-Consumer and Web Stores 28:10 The Emergence of Alternative Stores 31:31 The Potential of HTML5 Games --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Anime games are experiencing a cultural shift and growing popularity. Big publishers are likely to dominate the market, pushing small studios to adapt. Hybrid casual games are evolving towards a more casual model. Transmedia and IP integration are becoming crucial for game success. AI is set to revolutionize game development processes. Walled gardens in gaming are becoming more prevalent and successful. Privacy concerns will continue to impact user acquisition strategies. Direct-to-consumer models are essential for profitability in gaming. Alternative app stores are gaining traction and offering new opportunities. HTML5 games present a significant opportunity for developers to reach new audiences. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai Felix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

In this episode, we explore the gaming industry's evolving landscape, focusing on CPI testing, game mechanics, and market trends. We also explore the new games in Soft Launch, the impact of new game launches, the disruption of traditional genres like Solitaire, and the potential of branded games like Barbie. The conversation also touches on the strategies of various game developers, including Century Games and Voodoo, and explores the future of mobile gaming amidst changing consumer preferences. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/drc6KPJJlk4 Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of CPI Testing in Gaming 01:09 Introduction to the Gaming Show 02:34 Christmas Gifts and Personal Anecdotes 03:30 Game Analysis: Merge Plaza and Innovations 06:10 The Disruption of the Solitaire Category 10:00 Soft Launch Insights and Game Mechanics 12:28 Exploring New Game Genres and Trends 15:07 Barbie Merch and Market Potential 17:21 The Domino Game Trend 19:38 Voodoo's New Game Innovations 21:33 Century Games and Their Strategy 23:23 Post-Apocalyptic Game Mechanics 26:07 The Forex Game Landscape 30:12 The Future of Mobile Gaming and Trends 33:50 Final Thoughts and Predictions --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways CPI testing has evolved, with mini-games becoming the new standard. The gaming industry is experiencing significant disruptions, particularly in the Solitaire category. Branded games like Barbie have potential but face challenges in execution. Voodoo continues to innovate within the casual gaming space. Century Games is a company to watch due to their strategic approach. The 4X genre is becoming saturated with similar onboarding mechanics. Post-apocalyptic themes are gaining traction in mobile games. The importance of user acquisition strategies cannot be overstated. The future of mobile gaming will likely see more integration of successful mechanics from various genres. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai Felix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

In this episode, we dive into the game Blossom Sort, exploring its revenue generation, user engagement metrics, game design mechanics, and monetization strategies. Together, we unpack the dynamics of the Chinese gaming market and discuss the creative marketing strategies that have propelled the game’s success. We also share our thoughts on future trends in the casual gaming sector, offering insights and analysis that make this episode a valuable resource for anyone passionate about the gaming industry. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/8sb5-dx9UIo Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Epic intro 01:24 Introduction to Blossom Sort and Revenue Insights 04:00 User Engagement and Active User Metrics 08:09 Game Design and Mechanics Overview 11:47 Monetization Strategies and User Acquisition 15:50 Chinese Gaming Market Dynamics 20:10 Creative Strategies in Game Marketing 23:50 Future Trends in Casual Gaming 27:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways The game is generating around $60k a day in IAP revenue. User engagement metrics show a steady increase in active users. The game design features unique mechanics that differentiate it from competitors. Monetization strategies focus on in-app purchases rather than aggressive ad placements. The Chinese gaming market plays a significant role in the game's development and success. We predict a disruption in the casual gaming category in the near future. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai Felix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

In this new segment, I explore the farming games market, its growth, key players, revenue insights, and player engagement strategies. I also discuss the importance of retention rates, monetization strategies, and mini-games emergence as a crucial trend. The conversation highlights opportunities for new entrants in the market and emphasizes the need for innovation and an understanding of player demographics. The episode concludes with final thoughts on the evolving landscape of farming games and the commitment required for success. Yours, Matej! This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/GYLX2zAbjks Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Farming Games Market Dynamics 02:13 Market Growth and Key Players 05:39 Revenue Insights and Performance Metrics 12:20 Retention Rates and Player Engagement 18:36 Monetization Strategies in Farming Games 22:54 Opportunities for New Entrants in the Market 25:37 Final Thoughts on the Farming Games Landscape --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Farming games have a significant market share and growth potential. Key players like Township and Hay Day dominate the genre. Revenue insights reveal Township's impressive earnings compared to competitors. Retention rates are crucial for long-term success in gaming. The emergence of mini-games enhances player engagement and retention. Social features are vital for community building in farming games. Understanding player demographics is essential for targeting. Investing in high-quality creatives is necessary for market competitiveness. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai Felix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

In this episode, we dive into the latest creative trends and insights in the gaming industry, focusing on creative strategies, emotional advertising, and the growing impact of AI in mobile game marketing. We analyze successful game creatives, share thoughts on the evolution of marketing strategies, and explore how emotions are essential for engaging players. Together, we highlight the importance of iteration in improving game performance and discuss the future of game marketing as AI reshapes the industry. Join us for a comprehensive discussion that blends data, creativity, and cutting-edge technology to uncover what’s next for game marketers and developers alike. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/gI8BHEN8J-U Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Epic intro 01:24 Introduction to Gaming Trends and Insights 03:00 Creative Trends in Gaming 05:49 Analyzing Successful Game Creatives 09:10 The Evolution of Game Marketing Strategies 12:07 Identifying Trends and Inspirations in Game Development 14:58 The Role of Emotions in Game Advertising 17:51 Innovations in Game Creatives and AI Influence 20:45 The Impact of Iteration on Game Performance 24:09 Case Studies of Successful Game Ads 26:58 Future of Game Marketing and AI Integration 29:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Small adjustments can lead to significant changes in performance. Understanding emotional triggers is key in-game advertising. AI is revolutionizing the way game creatives are developed. Iterative processes are essential for optimizing game marketing. Successful game ads often draw inspiration from each other. The use of AI can enhance the quality and effectiveness of game ads. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai Felix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of match3 games, exploring their core design, the evolution of game mechanics, and what it takes to succeed in this highly competitive genre. We look back at the historical context of match 3 games, discuss today’s market leaders, and highlight the challenges faced by new entrants. Our conversation focuses on striking the right balance between luck and skill in gameplay while emphasizing the need for innovative design to captivate players and drive revenue. We examine key elements like visual clarity, game mechanics, and player engagement, as well as the importance of balancing difficulty with player satisfaction. We also explore the rise of the restoration meta in casual games and new progression mechanics, like win streak systems, that drive player retention. User acquisition strategies are another hot topic—highlighting the high costs of acquiring players for match-3 games and the role of ad monetization. Additionally, our conversation touches on the role of playables in advertising, the evolution of creative strategies, and the latest trends in game advertising, emphasizing the importance of constant innovation in a saturated market. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to thrive in the match3 genre and beyond! This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Special Guest. Laura Taranto Youtube: https://youtu.be/-THrT_jrtZE Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Epic intro 01:24 The Importance of Core Design in Match-3Games 10:29 The Evolution of Game Mechanics and Monetization 16:26 Current Market Leaders and Their Strategies 29:10 Challenges for New Entrants in the Match-3 Genre 40:36 The Importance of Game Mechanics in Match-3 Games 47:14 Visual Clarity and Ergonomics in Game Design 01:10:16 Narrative and Player Engagement in Game Design 01:22:08 Evolution of Game Mechanics 01:48:39 Ad Monetization Techniques in Mobile Games 02:10:26 Trends in User Acquisition and Advertising 02:20:55 The Shift in Creative Strategies for Match-3 Games 02:26:30 Emerging Trends and Innovations 02:34:53 Final Thoughts on the Future of Match-3 Games --------------------------------------- Laura Taranto https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurataranto/ Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Core Puzzle Design is Crucial: A solid, engaging puzzle design is essential to attract and retain players in the competitive match-three genre. Balancing Difficulty is Key: Striking the right balance between challenge and satisfaction is critical for long-term player retention. User Acquisition is Complex: High user acquisition costs require careful balancing with retention rates and innovative UA strategies like minigames, playables and AI-driven campaigns. Visual Clarity & Speed Matter: Clear visuals, differentiated game pieces, and appropriate gameplay speed significantly impact player satisfaction and usability. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me