
two & a half gamers
This is a no BS gaming podcast. We share insights, knowledge and fun gossip relating to the topics of User Acquisition, Game Design and Ad monetisation. You will find here actionable insights in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. A safe space where we mimic the honesty of a 4am conference discussion. Enjoy & let us know your feedback!
Latest episodes

Mar 19, 2025 • 26min
A Human-Centric Approach to Mobile gaming industry by Ömer Yakabagi
In this conversation, Ömer emphasizes the importance of a human-centric approach that prioritizes creativity, joy, and connection over mere revenue generation. He highlights the challenges faced by the industry, including the pressure on developers and marketers, and advocates for a shift back to the core values of gaming. The monologue also touches on the need for collaboration, well-being, and redefining success in the gaming world.Get our MERCH NOW: 25gamers.com/shopThis 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: Ömer Yakabagihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/omerya/Podcast: Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 The Human-Centric Approach to Mobile Gaming06:01 Challenges in the Mobile Gaming Industry13:13 Rekindling Creativity and Joy in Gaming20:05 The Future of Mobile Gaming: A Call to Action---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysMobile gaming should prioritize creativity and fun.The industry faces challenges due to aggressive startup culture.Work-life balance is essential for developers and marketers.Creativity is often stifled by revenue-focused pressures.Human connection is vital in gaming experiences.Industry events foster community and collaboration.Investing in well-being can enhance creativity.We need to celebrate the joy of gaming.The focus should shift back to storytelling in marketing.Support and connection within the industry are crucial.---------------------------------------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 LancaricLatest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=trueDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-aiFelix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

Mar 17, 2025 • 35min
Exploring Match Villains: A New Contender for THE Casual Throne
Today, we discuss the mobile game Match Villains, developed by Good Job Games. We explore its gameplay mechanics, market performance, and the competitive landscape of mobile gaming. The conversation goes into the game's features, comparisons with similar titles, and insights into the developers' strategies and industry trends. In this conversation, we dive into the innovative concepts and market trends in mobile gaming, mainly focusing on the Royal Match game and its competitors. We discuss the revenue potential of these games, comparing their performance and user engagement strategies. The conversation also touches on creative gameplay mechanics, scaling strategies, and the financial considerations necessary for success in the gaming industry. 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/te5fkSD0VLgJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Match Villains and Game Overview04:22 Game Performance and Market Positioning07:26 Gameplay Mechanics and Features Comparison10:12 Good Job Games and Industry Insights13:18 Creative Strategies and Marketing Approaches19:05 Innovative Game Concepts and Market Trends22:08 Revenue Potential and Market Comparisons24:37 Creative Gameplay Mechanics and User Engagement29:06 Scaling Strategies and Financial Considerations31:34 Future Prospects and Industry Insights---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysMatch Villains is gaining traction in the mobile gaming market.The game features mechanics similar to Royal Match.Good Job Games has a strong reputation in the industry.Market competition is fierce, with few games achieving high revenue.The game's growth is attributed to effective user acquisition strategies.The gameplay lacks some features compared to established competitors.The heist mechanic adds a unique twist to the gameplay.Good Job Games is a breeding ground for successful game developers.Creative marketing strategies are crucial for game visibility.The Turkish gaming market is evolving with new talent and innovation. Market comparisons reveal insights into game performance.---------------------------------------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

Mar 13, 2025 • 57min
The Art of Scaling Games: When to scale your game?
In this episode, we explore the critical aspects of scaling games in the gaming industry, focusing on the right timing, key metrics, and financial strategies. Ridzki Syahputera from PVX Partners shares insights on cohort profitability, the importance of soft launching, and various financing options available for game developers. The conversation emphasizes the need for consistency in cohort performance and the role of data in making informed scaling decisions.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: Felix Braberg, Matej LancaricSpecial Guest: Ridzki SyahputeraYoutube: https://youtu.be/_HtnAVoNUUMJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Scaling in Gaming04:28 Key Metrics for Scaling Games07:32 The Importance of Soft Launching10:34 Understanding Cohort Profitability13:32 The Role of Consistency in Cohorts16:32 Funding Growth Strategies19:25 Navigating Debt and Equity Financing22:30 Cohort Financing Explained34:00 Understanding Payback Periods and Risk Monetization37:37 Data-Driven Financing: The Role of Cohorts40:39 The Underwriting Process: How Financing Works46:33 Cohort Analysis: Visualizing Performance Metrics52:08 Forecasting Future Performance: Tools for Financial Planning---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comRidzki SyahputeraFounder of PVX Partnershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ridzkisyahputera/---------------------------------------TakeawaysScaling should be based on solid metrics and data.Cohort profitability is essential for sustainable growth.Soft launching allows for testing and iteration before scaling.Consistency in cohort performance builds confidence for scaling.Cohort financing can be a viable option for funding growth.Understanding the payback period is crucial for financial planning.Testing new creatives is necessary to maintain performance.The process of securing funding can be quick if the data is ready.Using tools for cohort analysis can aid in decision-making.Engaging with investors early can help secure necessary funding.---------------------------------------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 LancaricLatest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=trueDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai

Mar 12, 2025 • 31min
A Beginners Guide to Ad monetization: The Fundamentals by Felix Braberg
This episode of Two and a Half Gamers provides a comprehensive introduction to ad monetization in mobile gaming. Felix Braberg discusses key metrics such as ECPM, fill rate, and ad ARPDAU, explaining their importance in maximizing ad revenue. The monologue delves into how ad networks operate, how they determine ECPM, and the various revenue models they employ. The episode also covers strategies for soft launching, selecting mediation platforms, and effectively scaling ad revenue. Listeners gain insights into best practices for network selection and the significance of maintaining good relationships with ad network account managers.Get our MERCH NOW: 25gamers.com/shop---------------------------------------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/BY5THj6vQuEJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Ad Monetization Metrics02:57 Understanding ECPM and Fill Rate05:46 Key Metrics: Ad ARPDAU and Engagement Rates09:07 The Role of Ad Networks in Monetization11:53 How Ad Networks Determine ECPM15:08 Revenue Models of Ad Networks17:53 Soft Launching and Impression Value21:08 Choosing a Mediation Platform23:57 Scaling Your Ad Revenue27:07 Best Practices for Network Selection---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysAd ARPDAU is crucial for tracking performance.ECPM and fill rate together determine ad revenue.Higher user engagement leads to increased ad revenue.Ad networks connect advertisers with app users.Understanding how networks determine ECPM is essential.Ad networks charge margins and fees for services.During soft launch, focus on ad viewer rates.Choosing the right mediation platform impacts revenue.Scaling ad revenue requires adding competitive networks.---------------------------------------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 LancaricLatest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=trueDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-aiFelix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

Mar 10, 2025 • 48min
Who is Tripledot & what do they do? The History, games portfolio & estimated profits
We discuss the recent news of Applovin selling its gaming division to Tripledot for $900 million. We dive into who Tripledot is, its revenue model, and the impact of ad revenue in the mobile gaming industry. The conversation covers the rise of Tripledot, key milestones, acquisitions, and an analysis of their game portfolio, particularly focusing on Wodoku. We also explore the mechanics of ad revenue and provide estimates of Tripledot's earnings and future prospects. In this conversation, we go into the financial dynamics of the gaming industry, focusing on ad revenue, profit margins, and the strategic positioning of major publishers. We analyze the retention metrics of various games, estimate potential profits, and discuss the implications of publisher incentives and relationships within ad networks. 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/7VFD0qNTZIE Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to the Gaming Industry Shakeup04:33 Understanding Tripledot and Its Revenue Model07:50 The Rise of Tripledot: Key Milestones and Acquisitions10:37 Exploring Tripledot's Game Portfolio13:36 Analyzing Woodoku and Its Impact16:36 The Mechanics of Ad Revenue in Mobile Gaming19:39 Estimating Tripledot's Earnings and Future Prospects25:20 Analyzing Ad Revenue and Retention Metrics27:52 Estimating Profit Margins and Financial Health29:41 Publisher Incentives and Market Positioning32:20 The Role of Relationships in Ad Networks34:30 Diversifying Game Portfolios and Revenue Streams35:46 Creative Strategies in Game Marketing40:48 The Use of IP and Branding in Gaming42:48 Final Thoughts on Game Monetization Strategies---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysAd revenue is often more challenging to track than IAP revenue. Thats why people think it doesn't exist. Tripledot has seen substantial growth since its founding in 2017.Wodoku is a flagship title that has driven Triple Dot's success.Revenue estimates for Tripledot suggest they are earning substantial profits.User acquisition plays a crucial role in the success of mobile 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---------------------------------------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

Mar 6, 2025 • 46min
Love & Deep Space: The success of Otome Games. A very heavy RPG with dating mechanics & ASMR systems
The hosts delve into the captivating world of otome games and their unique blend of romance and RPG mechanics. They discuss the appeal of attractive male characters and the financial success of gacha systems. The conversation covers cultural differences in marketing strategies and game design, emphasizing the immersive narratives and gameplay that keep players engaged. Listeners will enjoy insights into the evolving dynamics of the gaming market, particularly in Asia, where otome games thrive.

Mar 5, 2025 • 50min
Revolutionizing Video Production & AI UGC with Poolday.AI
In this episode, we discuss the transformative impact of AI on video production in the gaming and marketing industries. They explore the evolution of AI-generated user-generated content (UGC), the importance of volume in creative production, and the cost reductions that AI brings to video creation. The conversation also touches on the testing methodologies for video performance, the comparison between AI UGC and human creators, and the legal considerations involved in using AI-generated content. The episode features insights from Alexei, the CEO of Pool Day, who shares how their platform streamlines video production processes and enhances creative testing. The shift from traditional data-driven user acquisition roles to more creative-focused positions is highlighted, emphasizing the need for UA managers to adapt to new technologies. The coupon for the 2.5 gamers audience is 50% off on the first 3 months for all new signups on any plan.POOLGAMERS (make sure to hit "apply coupon")Sign up, get 2 free AI UGC videos, then choose a subscription plan that works for you!APPLY COUPON POOLGAMERS---------------------------------------Get our MERCH NOW: 25gamers.com/shop---------------------------------------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/0eKuPCIJNH0Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to AI in Gaming and Marketing03:04 The Evolution of AI UGC and Video Production06:01 Testing Methodologies in Video Production08:55 The Importance of Volume in Creative Production11:51 Cost Reduction in Video Production14:45 AI UGC vs. Human Creators17:53 The Video Creation Process with Pool Day21:02 AI Voiceover and Localization Features23:54 Legal Considerations in AI Video Production26:15 Video Editing Revolution: The Power of AI31:58 Streamlining Creative Processes with AI39:02 The Shift in User Acquisition: From Math to Creativity44:01 The Future of Video Production: A Design System for Creatives---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysAI is revolutionizing video production in gaming and marketing.Testing methodologies have evolved with the rise of AI.AI UGC can outperform traditional human-created content in certain scenarios.AI voiceover features enhance localization and accessibility.The platform allows for rapid iteration and testing of video content.Marketers can now produce hundreds of videos quickly and affordably. AI tools are revolutionizing video editing and productionVideo editors can now produce content without bottlenecks.The future of video marketing lies in design systems for efficiency.AI can help test game concepts before actual development.Creatives can be generated in minutes, saving time and resources.The importance of adapting to new technologies in marketing roles.Video production is becoming more accessible to non-experts.---------------------------------------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

Mar 3, 2025 • 50min
Vita Mahjong Game Review: Ads in Gaming? Yes!
In this conversation, we discuss the mobile game Vita Mayong, exploring its gameplay mechanics, user experience, monetization strategies, and user demographics. We delve into the game's ad revenue model, highlighting its success and the criticisms it faces from users regarding ad overload. The discussion also includes comparisons with other games in the genre and insights into the target audience, particularly seniors. The conversation concludes with reflections on user feedback and the game's future prospects. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the pervasive annoyance of ads in mobile gaming, the creative strategies used in game marketing, and the importance of funding for growth in the gaming industry. We delve into the role of AI in game development and how it influences user engagement and game performance. The discussion also touches on the evaluation of game creatives and the effectiveness of various marketing strategies.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/UeNb404tVVEJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on Vita Mayong04:35 Gameplay Mechanics and User Experience07:35 Ad Integration and Monetization Strategies10:34 Target Audience and Game Design Philosophy13:34 Dynamic Difficulty and Player Engagement16:39 Market Performance and Competitive Landscape19:10 Game Features and User Experience20:57 Ad Revenue Insights23:21 Market Dynamics and User Demographics24:57 User Feedback and Game Monetization29:24 Creative Strategies in Game Marketing31:17 Funding and Growth Strategies32:48 Competitor Analysis and Creative Inspiration34:59 Healing Through Gaming: The Impact on Mental Health36:45 Creative Diversity in Advertising: Strategies and Insights38:42 The Role of AI in Gaming: Innovations and Limitations39:47 Analyzing Ad Campaigns: What Works and What Doesn't41:48 The Power of Storytelling in Game Marketing44:28 Evaluating Game Performance: Metrics and Expectations---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysVita Mayong has gained significant popularity with 9 million downloads in 30 days.The game is heavily ad-driven, generating approximately $55 million annually.User feedback indicates frustration with the frequency of ads in the game.The game lacks complex features, focusing instead on straightforward matching mechanics.User demographics suggest a target audience of older players who prefer easy-to-play games.Comparative analysis reveals similarities with other successful mobile games like Block Blast.

Feb 27, 2025 • 45min
Rise of Vietnam: Mobile Gaming Boom—Key Players, Winning Strategies & What’s Next
In this episode, we explore Vietnam’s rapidly expanding mobile gaming scene, now projected to exceed USD 1 billion in annual revenue by 2025 and boasting a year-over-year growth rate of nearly 30%—one of the highest in Southeast Asia. We spotlight pioneering Vietnamese game studios and their chart-topping hits, examining the creative approaches that have helped them gain international recognition. We also discuss how local developers navigate Vietnam’s evolving regulatory environment and the potential hurdles these rising stars must overcome to sustain their momentum in the global market. Tune in to learn how Vietnam has become a powerhouse in mobile gaming and what’s driving this unprecedented surge.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/lSzc2Y2DqFUJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction and Album Release03:35 Vietnam's Mobile Gaming Explosion05:43 Understanding Vietnamese Game Studios11:52 iKame: A Case Study16:21 Brave Stars: Success in Ad Monetization20:48 X Game Studios: The Hidden Giants24:49 The Evolution of Casual Gaming25:40 Understanding Ultra Casual Games26:51 The Appeal of Satisfying Gameplay27:37 User Acquisition Strategies in Mobile Gaming31:36 The Rise of Music-Based Games34:38 Competition in the Music Game Genre35:41 The Impact of Vietnamese Game Studios38:41 Regulatory Changes in Vietnam's Gaming Industry---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysVietnam has emerged as a significant player in the mobile gaming industry.The Vietnamese gaming market is characterized by collaboration among studios.iKame is a leading studio with impressive download numbers.Brave Stars has successfully tapped into the ad monetization model.X Game Studios is gaining traction with innovative titles.ABI Games is pioneering the ultra-casual gaming genre.Amanotes specializes in music-based games, showing a unique niche.OneSoft has a diverse portfolio, including popular puzzle games.The regulatory landscape in Vietnam is evolving, impacting foreign entities.Vietnamese companies are competitive globally, often outperforming their Western counterparts.---------------------------------------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

Feb 26, 2025 • 32min
Publishing 101: What Game to Build, Why, and Which Publisher is Right for You by John Wright
In this monologue session, John Wright discusses the current state of mobile game publishing, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between developers and publishers. He outlines the challenges developers face in securing funding and the advantages of working with publishers, including access to expertise and technology. The monologue also covers strategies for choosing the right game and publisher, understanding the game discovery process, and the differences between farming and hunting strategies used by publishers to find new games.Get our MERCH NOW: 25gamers.com/shop---------------------------------------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:John WrightYoutube: https://youtu.be/Ja0Vf2lNHoAJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 The Current State of Mobile Game Publishing08:27 Choosing the Right Game and Publisher15:26 Understanding Publisher Game Discovery23:31 Farming vs. Hunting: Publisher Strategies---------------------------------------John Wright Independent publishing consultant https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwright1987/Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysThe current state of mobile game publishing is positive, with notable successes.Developers face challenges in securing funding, making publishers essential partners.Lean teams should focus on core game development and utilize publisher expertise.True innovation in games can lead to significant success but carries high risk.The plus one strategy allows for lower risk and faster validation of game concepts.Market research is crucial; developers should use data tools to inform their decisions.Finding the right publisher is vital for game success; alignment with their thesis is key.Building relationships with publishers can lead to future opportunities, even after rejection.Publishers use both farming and hunting strategies to discover new games.Understanding publisher strategies can improve a developer's chances of getting signed.---------------------------------------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 LancaricLatest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=trueDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-aiFelix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes
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