Ever wondered why some games blow up while others fade into obscurity? We dive headfirst into the surprisingly complex world of Solitaire games—yes, Solitaire! Especiall, Candy Crush Solitaire! We unpack how this classic genre has evolved from your grandma’s desktop time-killer to a booming corner of the gaming industry, fueled by IP powerhouses like Candy Crush Solitaire.Oh, and we’re not holding back on the Candy Crush of it all. We swing between hype and skepticism about its latest spin-off, asking: Can a titanic IP guarantee success, or is the market too unpredictable? This episode’s got hot takes, cold truths, and enough Solitaire trivia to impress your group chat.Get our MERCH NOW: 25gamers.com/shop--------------------------------------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---------------------------------------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 Lancaric⁠Youtube: https://youtu.be/uKTs4zqksY8Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Solitaire and Personal Updates03:14 Metrics and Predictions in the Gaming Industry07:10 The Evolution of Solitaire Games13:10 New Entrants in the Solitaire Market19:11 Challenges and Opportunities in Game Development21:10 Review of Candy Crush Solitaire24:43 Brand Recognition and Game Mechanics26:04 Gameplay Dynamics and Strategic Depth29:43 Balancing Complexity and User Experience31:09 Monetization Strategies and Game Economics33:12 Advertising and Revenue Generation35:52 Event Rotation and Player Engagement41:54 Future Prospects and Market Competition44:58 Cultural Differences in Gaming45:47 Market Challenges and Pessimism47:03 User Acquisition Strategies48:47 The Role of Playable Ads50:00 Nostalgia in Game Marketing51:33 User-Generated Content and Its Impact53:42 Revenue Insights and Market Analysis57:41 Future Predictions for Solitaire Games---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultant⁠https://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultant⁠https://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultant⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysThe gaming industry is witnessing a battlefield of Solitaire games.Gameplay mechanics can create strategic depth in Solitaire games.The evolution of Solitaire games reflects changing player preferences.The future of Solitaire games may involve more aggressive monetization tactics. Pessimism about game launches can stem from high expectations and market competition.---------------------------------------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

Our "monthly" live AMA is live. Check it out, and next time, ask questions in real time!Secret quest: Jesse Lempiäinenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jesselempiainen/https://geeklab.app/In this conversation, we discuss various aspects of mobile game development, focusing on App Store Optimization (ASO), user acquisition strategies, and monetization techniques. They explore the integration of AI in ASO, the importance of creative-level frameworks for iOS, and the nuances of soft launching games. The discussion also covers attribution challenges, effective testing methods for game ideas, and strategies for segmenting users based on monetization models. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of user acquisition, advertising strategies, and the challenges posed by privacy regulations. They discuss innovative ad strategies, technical capabilities in user acquisition, and the impact of Apple and Google policies on the advertising landscape. The conversation also touches on the rise of alternative app stores, navigating app store rejections, and effective marketing strategies for Steam games. Additionally, they explore the intricacies of ECPM and user segmentation, emphasizing the importance of diversifying user acquisition channels.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:00 ASO and AI Integration04:59 iOS Framework and User Acquisition07:57 Soft Launch Strategies12:00 Attribution and Campaign Insights16:50 Testing Game Ideas and User Segmentation22:02 Monetization Strategies in Hybrid Games28:23 Innovative Ad Strategies and Market Trends29:14 Technical Capabilities in User Acquisition30:36 Challenges in Tracking and Privacy Regulations32:12 The Impact of Apple and Google Policies34:16 The Future of Advertising on iOS38:14 The Rise of Alternative App Stores40:41 Navigating App Store Rejections43:25 Marketing Strategies for Steam Games47:16 Understanding ECPM and User Segmentation53:19 Diversifying User Acquisition ChannelsTakeawaysASO requires a unique skill set and personality.AI is increasingly taking over tasks in ASO.Creative-level frameworks are essential for iOS user acquisition.Soft launching can be done effectively through beta testing.Attribution is becoming more complex with new updates.Testing game ideas is crucial for understanding user preferences.Segmentation based on user acquisition sources can enhance monetization.Hybrid games can benefit from both ad and IAP revenue strategies.Using landing pages for testing can provide valuable insights.AI can expedite the testing process for game ideas. Innovative ad strategies can significantly improve CTR.Technical capabilities are evolving but not fully utilized yet.Privacy regulations pose challenges for tracking user behavior.Apple and Google policies heavily influence the advertising landscape.Alternative app stores are emerging but face significant challenges.App store rejections can be random and frustrating for developers.Marketing strategies for Steam games can leverage mobile marketing techniques.ECPM is influenced by various factors including user behavior and geography.Diversifying user acquisition channels is crucial for sustained growth.Understanding user segmentation can enhance ad performance.

In this episode, we dive into the latest creative trends and insights in the gaming industry, focusing on creative trends and 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.Our Music Album: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2o80XDfSqkDIqmuc5tOZdtGet our Merch NOW: 25gamers.com/shop --------------------------------------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---------------------------------------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 Lancaric⁠Youtube: https://youtu.be/S5hOmIjVRYEJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to the Gaming Landscape03:02 Creative Trends in Game Advertising05:53 Analyzing Successful Game Creatives09:02 The Importance of Iteration in Game Development11:58 Understanding Game Revenue Dynamics14:58 Exploring New Game Concepts and Mechanics17:55 The Role of Physics in Game Creatives21:01 Future Directions in Game Advertising24:23 The Evolution of Top War's Marketing Strategy27:18 Creative Iteration in Game Advertising30:12 Visual Styles and Game Mechanics31:32 User-Generated Content in Game Promotion34:09 Innovative Advertising Techniques in Gaming36:35 The Role of Celebrity Endorsements39:10 AI and Creative Trends in Game Marketing---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultant⁠https://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultant⁠https://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultant⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysSuccessful creatives often use satisfying physics interactions.Iteration in game development is crucial but can be unpredictable.Understanding player psychology is key to successful game design.The future of gaming will rely on creativity and player satisfaction. Top War's marketing strategy is evolving with creative iterations.User-generated content is becoming more prominent in promotions.Innovative advertising techniques are essential for engagement.Celebrity endorsements can significantly impact game visibility.AI is influencing creative trends in-game marketing.The gaming industry is seeing a shift towards emotional storytelling.---------------------------------------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.mePlayable trends: https://lancaric.substack.com/p/playbles-trends-in-mobile-games-january?r=7qqaf

Roi Nam, CEO of Airbridge and mobile measurement expert, dives into the dynamic world of mobile gaming. He discusses the strategies to excel in 2025, emphasizing speed, monetization, and globalization as crucial drivers for growth. Roi highlights the importance of innovative user acquisition methods, such as leveraging TikTok and AI content. He also addresses the need for tailored marketing approaches when entering Western markets, noting the distinct player preferences between Asian and Western gamers.

Matej Lancaric, a User Acquisition and Creatives Consultant, breaks down the fundamentals of mobile user acquisition. He highlights key metrics and essential terms crucial for marketers. Topics include the significance of data integrity and the challenges posed by privacy changes. Matej also discusses the interplay between creativity and paid, owned, and earned media. Plus, there are insights on how AI is reshaping marketing strategies, all served in a fun, relaxed vibe reminiscent of a 4 a.m. conference chat.

Our conversation dives into the evolving landscape of game marketing, particularly focusing on the 4X genre and the dynamics between successful game studios like First Fun and River Game. The discussion highlights the importance of user acquisition strategies, server management, and the integration of gameplay with marketing efforts. We also explore the future of 4X games, the impact of themes and reskins, and the innovative use of AI ingame mechanics. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of 4X game design, exploring its economic foundations, innovative mechanics, and the role of AI in shaping user acquisition strategies. We discuss the sustainability of the 4X model, future trends in user acquisition, and the evolution of game genres, culminating in predictions for the 4X market's trajectory.---------------------------------------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---------------------------------------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,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Matej Lancaric⁠, Joseph Kim, Justin YauYoutube:https://youtu.be/t28sVVnYWKwJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 The Evolution of Game Marketing Strategies02:54 Understanding First Fun and River Game Dynamics06:02 The 4X Game Landscape: Trends and Innovations09:07 The Role of User Acquisition in Game Success11:52 Server Management and Player Dynamics in 4X Games15:09 Integrating Gameplay and User Acquisition17:58 The Future of 4X Games: Multiple Core Strategies20:59 The Impact of Themes and Reskins in Game Development24:06 The Rise of AI in Game Mechanics33:51 The Economics of Game Design36:24 Innovations in Game Mechanics39:12 Creative Strategies in User Acquisition42:58 The Role of AI in Game Development48:30 Future Trends in User Acquisition54:01 Predictions for the 4X Market---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultant⁠https://lancaric.meJakub RemiarGame design consultant⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiarJoseph KimCEO, Lila Gameshttps://lilagames.com/ & GameMakersJustin Yauhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/justinhbyau/---------------------------------------TakeawaysFirst Fun & River Game share a complex relationship.The 4X genre is evolving with new strategies and themes.Server management is key to maintaining player engagement.The future of 4X games may involve multiple core strategies.AI is transforming user acquisition strategies in gaming.The 4X model's sustainability is under scrutiny due to high CPIs.Future trends in user acquisition will lean heavily on AI.The integration of AI in game development is becoming essential.4X games are setting the standard for creative strategies.The evolution of game genres will incorporate 4X elements.Understanding 4X is vital for anyone in the gaming industry.Predictions suggest a shift towards more innovative gameplay in 4X games.---------------------------------------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

We dive into the world of ad monetization in mobile games, reviewing several recent titles that rely heavily on ad revenue. We discuss the strategies behind these games, their performance metrics, and the implications for the gaming industry. We discuss the challenges parents face with kids' gaming, the success of ultra-casual games, and the aggressive monetization tactics employed by developers. --------------------------------------- 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 --------------------------------------- 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:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Special Guest: Katerina Maliaran 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 Ad Monetization and Game Review 02:10 Exploring King Pin: A Case Study in Ad Revenue 14:20 Super Car Merge: Merging Genres and Monetization Strategies 20:44 Boo Boo and Mimi: The Power of Cuteness in Gaming 29:35 Tricky Twist Puzzle: The Rise of Ultra Casual Games 38:05 Indian Car Highway Drive: Targeting the Indian Market 42:24 Gold Rush: A Hybrid Casual Game Analysis --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Katerina Maliaran Head of Admonetization https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerina-maliaran-b35a78203/ --------------------------------------- Takeaways Ad monetization is a crucial aspect of mobile game development. King Pin has seen significant growth in daily active users since launch. Super Car Merge targets a male audience with its merge mechanics. Cuteness in games can drive downloads and engagement. Retention rates are critical for long-term success in mobile games. Ad revenue can be substantial for games with high daily active users. Cross-promotion strategies can enhance user engagement. In-game ads can be implemented without harming player experience. The mobile gaming ecosystem is still thriving despite challenges. Parental controls are essential for managing kids' gaming. Ultra-casual games are gaining significant traction in the market. Monetization strategies can greatly impact a game's success. Targeting specific demographics can lead to higher downloads. Aggressive ad placements can lead to user frustration. Hybrid casual games are blending genres for better user experience. Developers need to balance monetization with user satisfaction. Innovative ad formats can enhance revenue without alienating players. The mobile gaming landscape is constantly evolving with new trends. --------------------------------------- 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 podcast, Jakub Remiar discusses the performance and updates of the Pokemon TCG Pocket game, focusing on revenue trends, user engagement, the new expansion, and the controversial trading system. He highlights the game's revenue spikes, user retention rates, and the implications of the trading mechanics on player experience. Also touches on the need for improved game features and the future of the game in terms of expansions and player engagement. 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/XZ5_IbVvZJM 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 Game's Performance 01:15 Revenue Trends and User Engagement 06:07 New Expansion and Card Mechanics 09:27 Trading System and Its Implications 18:02 Challenges in Game Features and Player Experience --------------------------------------- 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 projected to generate around 980 million in revenue. Revenue spikes are typical for gacha games, with significant daily earnings. User engagement remains strong, with high daily active users. The US market is becoming increasingly important for revenue growth. The new expansion introduces unique cards and mechanics. The trading system has been criticized for being prohibitive and unintuitive. Players are frustrated with the lack of communication features in trading. The game needs a proper PvP ranking system to enhance competitiveness. Despite community backlash, the game continues to achieve record revenue. Future expansions are expected to keep the game fresh and engaging. --------------------------------------- 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 game apps—their growth, challenges, and performance metrics. We examine monetization, user engagement, and the impact of offline and hybrid games while discussing anticipated titles and marketing strategies. We also cover scaling strategies, power progression layers, and future predictions for trading card games, emphasizing the need for creativity and innovation in 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 Podcast: 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 The Growth and Challenges of Game Apps 02:27 Review Radar: Analyzing Game Performance 06:27 The Impact of Offline Games 12:08 The Rise and Fall of Anticipated Titles 19:05 Innovations in Game Monetization and User Engagement 26:24 Analyzing User Base and Market Trends 27:00 Marketing Strategies and Game Performance 29:10 The Rise of Hybrid Games and Competitions 30:33 Revenue Insights and Game Launch Success 31:14 The Evolution of Game Genres and Trends 32:17 Scaling Strategies for Game Development 33:20 The Future of Hubby Games 35:35 Power Progression Layers in Gaming 36:30 Comparative Analysis of Game Performance 38:07 User Engagement and Game Updates 40:04 Nostalgia and Market Competition 41:07 Predictions for Trading Card Games 43:32 Final Thoughts on Game Performance 48:15 Closing Remarks and Future Directions --------------------------------------- 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 Offline games can still generate revenue despite perceptions of being dead. Anticipated titles can experience significant drops in user engagement post-launch. Understanding user demographics is key to effective marketing. Cross-promotions and collaborations can enhance user interest and retention. Marketing strategies play a crucial role in game performance. Hybrid games are becoming increasingly popular in the market. Revenue insights reveal the potential for significant earnings. The evolution of game genres is shaping player preferences. Scaling strategies are essential for successful game development. Power progression layers are a common trend in gaming. User engagement is critical for long-term success. Predictions for trading card games indicate a bright 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

We explored the complexities of game scaling, user acquisition, and the mechanics of Century Games' new game, High Seas Hero. In our discussion, we unpacked game progression systems, monetization strategies, and the intricacies of global launches. We reflected on how gameplay innovation often clashes with monetization tactics that prioritize short-term revenue over long-term player satisfaction. We also debated the future of game design, mainly how user acquisition will evolve in an increasingly competitive market, and stressed the need to balance creativity with player-centric experiences. Throughout the conversation, we kept returning to one core idea: the gaming industry thrives when we challenge conventions without losing sight of what makes games enjoyable. Whether dissecting retention mechanics or debating global launch pitfalls, our focus remained on building games that resonate deeply with players while staying sustainable in a fast-paced market. --------------------------------------- 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 --------------------------------------- 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/uO9gIP2LqBQ 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 Game Scaling Challenges 03:07 User Acquisition and Funding Solutions 05:57 Exploring High Seas Hero Game Mechanics 12:06 Forex Game Dynamics and Player Engagement 18:06 Monetization Strategies in Forex Games 25:29 Game Progression and Innovation 28:25 Monetization Strategies and Player Experience 30:44 Global Launch and Market Dynamics 34:30 User Acquisition and Game Design 47:15 Future of Game Development and Competition --------------------------------------- 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 Game scaling often does not meet expectations due to various factors. High Seas Hero incorporates mechanics from other successful games. 4X games can confuse players with their complex dynamics. Player engagement is crucial for the success of any game. Generosity in game rewards can lead to imbalances in player strength. The hidden mechanics of 4X games can be challenging to navigate. The game was initially very engaging and rewarding for players. Global launches require careful consideration of market dynamics and player expectations. --------------------------------------- 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