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two & a half gamers

Latest episodes

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Dec 26, 2024 • 44min

Blossom Sort Game Review: Exploring the Future of casual games

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
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Dec 25, 2024 • 28min

How to conquer the farming games market? Minigames FTW. Implement or die by Matej Lancaric!

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
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Dec 23, 2024 • 53min

Creative Trends in Mobile Gaming - November 2024

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
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Dec 19, 2024 • 2h 42min

Match3 Games Market Overview: Mechanics, Monetization, Trends, UA & Creative Strategies for Success

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
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Dec 16, 2024 • 51min

How to increase your profitability with Cross-promotion? A step-by-step guide with Gonçalo @ Boombit

In this conversation, we have a guest Gonçalo from Boombit and delve into the intricacies of cross-promotion in the gaming industry. We discuss the significance of cross-promotion for profitability, the strategies employed by Boombit to effectively engage users, and the technical aspects of implementing cross-promotion. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced in cross-promotion and the future potential for monetization within the gaming sector. 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: Gonçalo Alemao Martins Check out Boombit: https://boombit.com/services/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/ToVgvpQPHno 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 Cross-Promotion in Gaming 03:07 Understanding Boombit's Revenue and User Base 06:14 The Importance of Cross-Promotion for Profitability 09:06 Strategies for Effective Cross-Promotion 11:49 Analyzing User Engagement and Retention 15:09 Technical Aspects of Cross-Promotion 17:49 Challenges and Solutions in Cross-Promotion 20:47 Future of Cross-Promotion and Monetization 24:05 Conclusion and Key Takeaways --------------------------------------- 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 Gonçalo Alemao Martins VP of Marketing @Boombitgames https://www.linkedin.com/in/goncaloalemao/ https://boombit.com/ --------------------------------------- Takeaways Cross-promotion is a vital source of profitability for gaming companies. Boombit generates around 70 million in annual revenue. User retention is more cost-effective than user acquisition. Cross-promotion can significantly enhance user engagement. The effectiveness of cross-promotion is genre-dependent. Technical implementation of cross-promotion is crucial for success. Understanding user behavior is key to effective marketing strategies. Cross-promotion can be a reliable source of revenue during market fluctuations. The future of cross-promotion may include e-commerce and brand deals. Automated waterfall setups can streamline cross-promotion efforts. --------------------------------------- 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
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Dec 12, 2024 • 54min

Royal Kingdom Game Review: The Art of Level Design in Puzzle Games Genre

We delve into the gaming industry, focusing on the recent launch of Royal Kingdom, a sequel to Royal Match. We discuss the game's performance, monetization strategies, and the competitive landscape, comparing it to its predecessor. The conversation also touches on financial insights regarding Dream Games, the company behind these titles, and the evolving game mechanics that cater to a specific audience. Jakub emphasizes the significance of level design and the need for continuous innovation to maintain player interest and maximize monetization. The discussion also touches on user acquisition strategies and the evolving landscape of game marketing, highlighting the role of creative trends in attracting players. 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/tRt3Y0g7dAY 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 the Gaming Landscape 02:37 Royal Kingdom's Launch and Performance 07:50 Comparative Analysis: Royal Kingdom vs. Royal Match 13:09 Financial Insights and Company Strategy 15:35 Game Mechanics and Player Experience 25:50 Target Audience and Market Positioning 27:11 Game Mechanics and Strategies 32:47 Retention and Player Engagement 34:41 Level Design and Game Innovation 39:10 User Acquisition and Marketing Strategies 45:39 Creative Trends in Game Advertising --------------------------------------- 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 Royal Kingdom has seen explosive growth. The game features a traditional global launch strategy with significant marketing efforts. Royal Match has become the leading puzzle game, surpassing Candy Crush. Royal Kingdom's daily downloads are impressive, maintaining around 80k post-launch. The UK market is expensive but crucial for monetization in mobile games. Royal Kingdom presents a challenging gameplay experience, with increased difficulty levels. The target demographic for these games skews towards older audiences, particularly those 35 and above. Game mechanics play a crucial role in player engagement. --------------------------------------- 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
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Dec 9, 2024 • 49min

Ad placements & Ad monetization trends in Mobile Games - November 2024

In this episode, Felix delves into the latest trends in ad monetization within the gaming industry. We explore various games that have achieved high download numbers despite low in-app purchase (IAP) revenue, highlighting the effectiveness of ad-based revenue models. Our discussion includes detailed analyses of specific games, their gameplay mechanics, and revenue strategies, showcasing the evolving landscape of mobile gaming and the rise of ultra-casual games, particularly from regions like Vietnam. 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/RW06nG-h0IM 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 Ad Monetization Trends 02:55 Exploring High Downloads with Low IAP Revenue 05:47 Game Analysis: Coffee Craze and Its Revenue Model 09:08 The Success of Find the Cat: A Case Study 11:53 Car Race: Sustaining User Engagement Over Time 17:58 Horror Spanky Beats: The Music Rhythm Trend 26:00 Perfect Tidy: The Rise of Ultra Casual Games 34:08 Mini Games: The Ultimate Ad Revenue Machine --------------------------------------- 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 Ad monetization is crucial for game developers. High downloads can occur with low IAP revenue. The gaming industry is seeing a rise in ultra-casual games. Vietnam is becoming a significant player in mobile gaming. User engagement is key to sustaining game success. Rewarded ads can enhance user retention. Game design trends are shifting towards ad-driven models. --------------------------------------- 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
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Dec 5, 2024 • 45min

Top Girl game review: Idle Game made with AI meets 4X genre!

Discover the surprising success of Top Girl, a unique blend of waifu culture and 4X gameplay. The hosts hilariously dissect its innovative mechanics and engaging AI elements. They delve into the ramifications of this game on the mobile industry and the evolving landscape of adult content. You'll hear spirited debates on simplification in game design and predictions for the future of AI in gaming. Plus, get the scoop on an exciting competition for aspiring developers looking to scale their games with expert support!
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Dec 2, 2024 • 1h 5min

Archero 2 Review: The Evolution of gaming & Habby template perfection

In this episode, we discuss the gaming landscape in Vietnam, highlighting its rapid growth and potential. We delve into the specifics of Archero 2, comparing it to its predecessor and other games while exploring its gameplay mechanics, progression layers, and monetization strategies. The conversation emphasizes the evolution of game design and the importance of ad revenue in the gaming industry. Discussing the implications of game mechanics on user experience, the importance of ad revenue, and the potential of hybrid casual games. We also analyze the differences between Archero and Archero 2, discuss the implications of ad placements on revenue, and explore the different creatives in Archero 2. 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! Registier 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/xnOMrmYJJko 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 02:59 Archero 2 Overview and Comparisons 05:49 Gameplay Mechanics and Progression Layers 09:12 Monetization Strategies and Ad Revenue Discussion 23:12 Game Pricing Strategies and Market Trends 24:03 Future Game Releases and Development Strategies 25:12 Game Mechanics and User Engagement Challenges 26:10 Monetization Strategies and Game Economics 27:40 User Experience and Game Maintenance Issues 28:44 Ad Revenue and Market Performance Analysis 29:27 Revenue Insights and Market Launch Strategies 31:10 Comparative Analysis of Game Performance 33:22 User Acquisition and Revenue Predictions 35:57 Game Design and Marketability Considerations 38:44 Hybrid Casual Game Development and Competitions 42:57 Game Mechanics and Features 44:49 Ad Placement Strategies and Revenue Estimates 46:54 Market Performance and User Engagement 48:59 Creative Strategies in Game Marketing 51:58 Comparative Analysis of Game Creatives 55:56 Future Trends in Game Development and Marketing --------------------------------------- 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 Vietnam's gaming industry is rapidly growing and impressive. Archero 2 is already generating significant daily revenue. The game mechanics in Archero 2 have evolved from its predecessor. Archero 2 offers a smoother progression experience than Archero 1. The game is designed with a polished aesthetic similar to Supercell titles. Ad revenue plays a significant role in the game's financial success. --------------------------------------- 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
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Nov 28, 2024 • 1h 13min

Dark War Survival Review: If Whiteout Survival & Last War had a baby. This is it! And it's a Zombie

Today, we discuss the evolution of gaming, focusing on the game Dark War Survival and its mechanics, storytelling, and monetization strategies. We explore how the game integrates emotional engagement through its narrative and character development, particularly highlighting the emotional hook of saving a sick dog. The discussion also delves into market trends, user acquisition strategies, and the competitive landscape of 4X games, emphasizing the importance of effective onboarding and monetization tactics in the gaming industry. We discuss the evolution of game mechanics, the impact of user acquisition strategies, and the role of AI in marketing. The conversation highlights the changing landscape of game design and monetization, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in a competitive market. We also highlight the transformative impact of AI on creative production, particularly 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,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jani Torppa, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/_l6Jb1P2TbE 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 03:06 Gameplay Mechanics of Dark War Survival 05:58 Storytelling and Emotional Engagement in Gaming 11:57 Monetization Strategies and Emotional Hooks 18:02 Market Trends and Competitive Analysis 20:57 User Acquisition and Cost Per Install (CPI) Insights 25:04 The Economics of Game Downloads 29:23 Revenue Trends in 4X Games 30:36 The Evolution of Game Mechanics 34:30 The Impact of User Acquisition Strategies 39:03 The Role of AI in Game Marketing 44:26 The Future of Game Design and Monetization 49:35 AI in Creative Production 51:08 The Impact of AI on Engagement 52:37 Interactive Storytelling and Game Design 54:55 Trends in Game Marketing and User Acquisition 56:19 The Role of AI in Game Development 01:00:00 The Future of AI in Gaming and Marketing 01:07:25 Final Thoughts and Ratings --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Latest AI guide - https://lancaric.me/ugc-guide-ai-user-acquisition/ Jani Torppa Founder & COO Geeklab https://www.linkedin.com/in/jani-torppa-80480a122/ https://geeklab.app/ https://audiencelab.ai/ Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Dark War Survival employs a zombie apocalypse theme to attract players. The game features a strong narrative and emotional engagement. Monetization strategies include emotional hooks like saving a sick dog. UA costs in 4X games can be very high. UA strategies in 4X are evolving, focusing on broad appeal and engagement. The approachability of games is key to attracting a larger player base. ASO strategies may become less relevant if user acquisition is effective. The future of gaming & UA will heavily rely on AI technologies. The pace of innovation in the gaming industry is accelerating due to AI. --------------------------------------- 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.

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