This is no BS gaming podcast two and a half gamers. A safe space for all of us & you as well. Fun stuff, latest news, but also educational knowledge drops. Bringing you the feel of a "4am conference" discussion about the gaming industry.Let's dive in!
In this brutally honest episode, Matej interviews Zino Rost Van Tonningen, CEO of Tyr Ads, live from MAU (with zero construction noise this time). The focus is on running rewarded UA without getting burned by fraud, bad partners, or weak setups. Zino shares knowledge from his journey through agency work, the wild world of offer walls, and leading Tyr Ads from rewards app to global SDK powerhouse.What's inside:The Fraud Playbook: How faked events, cheat engines, and emulator hackers can drain $20,000 from your budget in minutes if your setup is not rock solid.How to Bulletproof Your Attribution: Why server-to-server (S2S) events, signature V5 for Adjust, and secure MMP integrations are non-negotiable. If you are not set up right, your numbers are toast.Reward Structures 101: Single reward, multi-reward, playtime offers, and daily re-engagement, the real impact on UA and long-term player progression.Choosing the Right Platform: How to interrogate your reward partner, avoid lazy multi-reward copycats, and demand daily re-engagement, data-driven nudges, and flexible KPIs.Scaling and Surviving: Why will most offerwall partners disappear in the next year unless they build better engagement and retention features? If your partner cannot adapt, you are the next victim.iOS is Heating Up: Why Apple's rules are loosening, the offerwall boom is just starting, and iOS users behave differently from Android.Key Takeaway:Rewarded UA is at a turning point: trust your numbers, interrogate your partners, demand retention and scale, or get left behind in the coming wave of consolidation.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: Matej LancaricSpecial guest: Zino Rost Van Tonningenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rovato/https://tyrads.com/Podcast: Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.me---------------------------------------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 LancaricDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai
We break down BitLife, a simulation game that proves you do not need flashy graphics or complex meta to print money. With an aggressive monetization model, evergreen retention, and a loyal fanbase, BitLife has been going strong for over seven years, now pulling in more than $110,000 a day, with ad revenue making up half of its total income.What's inside:Ad Monetization on Steroids: Interstitial ads hit you right from the tutorial, with a cooldown of 70 seconds, banners refresh every five seconds, and rewarded ads are expertly placed on emotional player moments.BitLife monetizes player choices through a web of IAPs, subscriptions, and one-time offers.Smart UA and Creative Strategy: Originally fueled by organics, Stillfront's acquisition kicked off heavy user acquisition with strong creative hooks, unique AI and UGC blends, and consistent iteration across every channel.Key Takeaway:You do not need the best graphics to win in mobile. If your product is unique, your ad monetization is ruthless, and your UA is dialed in, you can scale forever.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---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------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/--JFbHlo3E8Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Bit Life and Hosts04:27 The Growth and Acquisition of Bit Life07:36 Gameplay Mechanics and Life Choices10:18 Monetization Strategies and Ad Integration13:22 Life Events and Their Impact on Gameplay16:26 The Role of Ads in Player Experience19:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Bit Life23:09 Game Mechanics and Monetization Strategies26:24 Ad Revenue Insights and User Engagement31:26 User Acquisition and Marketing Strategies38:18 Game Performance and Future Growth44:21 Final Thoughts and Ratings---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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 just dropped our latest episode, and it is a must-watch for anyone building or buying mobile game ads. We break down the biggest trends ripping through the creative market:AI hooks and seamless transitions: five art styles in five minutes, and the line between real and fake is now a blur.Celebrities everywhere: Monica, Phoebe, LeBron, Christina Aguilera, even C-tier cameos nobody asked forSatisfying gold bars, drowning waifus, and cruelty hooks: Virality still rules the creative graveyard.Copy-paste chaos: King Shot mechanics, snakes, resource overload, and every trend recycled at warp speedIP infringement? Nobody cares. Elsa and Moana show up in more ads than their own movies.Here is the brutal truth: The mobile creative game is faster, weirder, and less original than ever. AI is now your intern, celebrity ads are squeezing out innovation, and anyone who is not remixing, testing, and scaling daily is already behind.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---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------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/xbOwszmQ6tgJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction and Event Highlights02:58 Creative Trends Overview05:50 Golden Goblin Creatives08:42 Celebrity Influences in Gaming Ads11:44 Contractual Dynamics in Celebrity Endorsements14:42 Trends in Game Creatives17:37 AI and Animation in Game Marketing20:04 Exploring Game Mechanics and Design Flaws22:42 The Evolution of Game Concepts and AI Integration25:41 Analyzing Coin Master's Consistent Revenue Stream28:43 The Impact of AI on Game Development31:43 Trends in Mobile Gaming Revenue and Performance37:10 Introduction to SuperScent and Game Comparisons37:47 Exploring Game Mechanics and Creative Concepts39:27 Discussion on Whiteout Survival and Game Trends40:29 Advertising Strategies for CTV Campaigns41:36 Analyzing Pokemon Go's New Developments44:18 AI in Game Creatives and Advertising48:42 Trends in AI-Generated Content and IP Infringement---------------------------------------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
Legend alert. In this episode, we sit down with Jane Whittaker, a developer, executive, and innovator whose career spans from coding 8-bit chart toppers and Atari's biggest hits to shaping the DNA of open-world, survival, and RPGs. Jane shares candid stories from the 1980s video game crash, building Alien vs. Predator with just two programmers, working with Sid Meier and Mike Singleton, and steering giants like EA and MGM.What's inside:Real Video Game HistoryIndie Roots and All-In Dev: From writing sound drivers without knowing music to doing design, code, and art in a single project, Jane did it all before “indie” was a thing.Survival Games Before They Were CoolOpen World Royalty: From Mike Singleton's Midwinter to World of Warcraft landscape architecture and Microsoft Flight Simulator expansions, Jane's fingerprints are all over gaming's biggest virtual worlds.Modding and Crafting PhilosophyNo AI Shortcuts, Pure CraftWhy Fun Beats TechKey Takeaway:Game design that stands the test of time is about creative risk, pure craft, and relentless focus on fun, not just graphics or tech. Jane's story is a masterclass for anyone building or dreaming of building games.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---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------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 LancaricYoutube: https://youtu.be/RyDJ88zRVwoJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to a Gaming Legend02:42 The Evolution of Gaming: A Personal Journey05:45 The Impact of the 1983 Video Game Crash08:32 The Making of Alien vs. Predator11:12 Transitioning to MGM and GoldenEye14:22 The Legacy of Survival Games17:24 Behind the Scenes of Dungeon Keeper and Marvel Games20:00 Contributions to World of Warcraft22:10 Crafting Immersive Game Worlds25:50 Innovations in Game Mechanics29:10 Creating Tension and Fear in Gameplay32:55 The Role of AI in Game Development38:12 Crafting Immersive Game Worlds41:13 The Importance of Effort in Game Development43:53 Balancing Budget and Creativity46:02 The Role of Modding in Gaming50:13 Lessons from Past Projects54:35 Building a Passionate Gaming Community---------------------------------------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
Today, we sit down with Supersonic's Samantha Benjamin and Guy Agiv to discuss the hit game Screw Master 3D. From adapting trends out of China to hybrid monetization tricks and creative secrets, this episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone in mobile gaming.What you'll learn:How Screwmaster 3D's physics-puzzle and meta layers drive insane engagementThe models and tactics behind maximizing eCPMs and LTV in ad-heavy gamesThe secret to rapid adaptation, culturalization, and scaling trends globallyA-B testing, skip-its, and boosters—hybrid casual best practices for monetization without killing UXCreative production at Supersonic: data-driven, AI-boosted, always iteratingThe new era of hybrid casual is ruthless: if you want to compete, you need to move fast, master ad monetization, and out-iterate everyone on creative and product. Screwmaster 3D is proof that the real money is in the details.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---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------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/OmGzUDUiPsQJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Screw Master 3D02:37 Game Mechanics and Design Insights05:39 Adapting for Global Markets08:38 User Engagement and Retention Strategies11:50 Monetization Strategies and Challenges14:33 Future Developments and Game Evolution26:56 Balancing Game Difficulty and User Engagement27:50 Analyzing User Metrics and Revenue Streams29:09 Retention Rates and User Engagement Strategies31:09 Ad Monetization Strategies and User Experience35:34 Optimizing Ad Experience and User Segmentation40:14 ECPM Management and Ad Impression Strategies45:26 Implementing Skip It Feature in Game Design49:19 User Acquisition Strategies and Channel Mix52:44 Channel Mix and Budget Allocation55:43 The Power of Playable Ads01:00:21 Creative Testing and Iteration Strategies01:01:53 Balancing Playable Lengths for User Engagement01:05:00 Testing New Channels and Creative Strategies01:12:19 Exploring New Channels for Growth---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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 just dropped a new Review Radar episode in which we examined every major mobile game from the last three months. Some are breaking the ‘podcast curse' and scaling up, others are stuck in stable dinosaur mode, and a few are just… lost.Highlights:Triple Match City and Color Block Jam are stacking revenue with surprising ARPU and ad mixesRoyal Kingdom and Pokémon Sleep show that audience and IP still trump any new featureCloning is the new normal, but most ‘copy-paste' games never hit the KPIs of their genre leadersMonetization is where dreams die, great engines, weak revenueUA and creative discipline are still the biggest differentiatorsOur verdict? Build fast, adapt faster, and don't be afraid to kill what isn't scaling. In mobile gaming, the only thing worse than a failed experiment is a boring one.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---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------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/vaa1d1Evif0Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to the Review Radar04:39 Game Performance Insights: Triple Match City07:16 Core Survival and Its Revenue Growth10:32 Acero 2: Launch and Revenue Analysis13:37 Top Girl: User Engagement and Revenue Trends16:37 Royal Kingdom: Celebrity Campaign Impact19:36 Path of Exile 2: Community Reactions and Revenue22:40 Dark and Darker: Soft Launch Insights25:34 Magic Sword: Future Potential and Market Position27:06 Revenue Insights: Comparing Game Performance28:48 Block Blast: The Unexpected Contender29:42 Project Rise: Anticipation and Delays33:27 ColorBlockJam: A Rising Star in Mobile Gaming36:35 Hi-Sees Hero: Challenges in Game Development39:48 Candy Crush Solitaire: Stagnation in a Competitive Market41:50 Goods Puzzle: A New Player in the Market---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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
In this special episode recorded LIVE at MAU, Matej Lančarič sits down with Noa Gutterman (VP UA, Misplay) and Brett (Senior Manager, UA, Misplay) for a no-BS deep dive into the business and creative secrets powering Misplay's explosive growth, and their high-stakes launch on iOS.Brutally honest breakdown:How Misplay overcame App Store hurdles to launch on iOSIncrementality testing, the “always-on” strategy that's blowing up the myth of last-touch attributionBuilding a predictive PLTV signal stack for maximum partner valueWhy culturalization, not just localization, is driving insane ROI in APAC marketsCreative strategies that actually convert: negative hooks, modular iteration, and next-gen UGCReal talk on AI in UA, where it works, where it fails, and what's nextMisplay's playbook is a wake-up call for UA and product teams: “Question every channel. Obsess over incrementality. Creative is king, but speed and structure are the emperor. And don't just localize, culturalize, or leave millions on the table.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---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------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/xUCAnvTHcYQJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Misplay and the Team03:24 Challenges and Opportunities in iOS Gaming06:51 User Acquisition Strategies for iOS09:31 Incrementality Testing in User Acquisition12:38 Measurement and Data Strategies15:40 Signals and Optimization in Campaigns18:48 User Segmentation and Geo Strategies23:31 Culturalized Marketing Strategies in Korea25:43 Creative Strategies and User-Generated Content29:47 Innovative Brainstorming and Team Collaboration32:43 Creative Testing and Iteration36:38 The Role of AI in Creative Development42:19 Future Directions for Misplay---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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
In this brutally honest episode, the 2.5 Gamers crew and puzzle expert Laura Taranto dive into Century Games' match-3 ambitions, dissecting new titles like Family Farm Match, Party Match, and Truckstar. Once a 4X and farming powerhouse, Century is now flooding the puzzle genre with games and wild creative tests, but is there any real strategy?We break down:The copy-paste engine and meta behind Party Match and Family Farm MatchTruckstar's unique angle and why it's struggling to scaleUA and creative strategy: random, borrowed, or just desperate?Why failing to use rewarded ads and proper player segmentation is costing millionsPolished engines but way-too-easy level design, can this team ever push players to pay?What's next? Will slow and safe ever beat bold and brilliant in match-3?Key TakeawayCentury Games has the tech, the team, and the budget, but without a killer UA and creative strategy and the guts to actually experiment, segment, and scale, they'll keep missing out on match-3's billion-dollar club. “Spray and pray” isn't a strategy!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---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------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 LancaricSpecial Guest: Laura TarantoYoutube: https://youtu.be/LV1FK7kqLJcJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Epic intro03:07 Exploring Century Games' Portfolio and Revenue Streams08:54 Casual Gaming Strategy and Market Positioning11:55 Discussion on Match-Three Games and Their Performance18:47 Evolution of Match Games20:28 Engaging Male Audiences in Gaming22:24 Revenue Strategies and User Acquisition29:39 Core Mechanics and Level Balancing35:29 Challenges in Game Differentiation45:23 Analyzing User Acquisition Tactics49:34 Understanding Creative Strategies in Marketing51:45 Evaluating Game Engine Performance56:57 Final Thoughts on Game Strategy and Development---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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
Running UA on AppLovin in 2025? Don't waste another dollar until you hear this.In this episode, we sit down with Alexis Lejeune (ex-AppLovin, now UA advisor) to dive deep into how AppLovin's UA stack really works — including how to scale, when to use D28 ROAS, how to test creatives, and how Axon 2 finds your payers before you do.What we cover:Axon 2: How AppLovin's black box blends mediation + advertiser dataD0 vs. D7 vs. D28: Which ROAS model works best and whenWhy $500 budgets won't calibrate for IAP gamesCampaign caps, crashes, and recovery strategiesWhy campaign goals should be set per geo & not touched every 2 daysWhy playables matter more than ever and how they qualify usersHow to refresh creatives based on spend volume (5–10/week at $10K/day)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---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------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 LancaricSpecial guest: Alexis Lejeunehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-lejeune/Youtube: https://youtu.be/V3TJwkPBXOMJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction05:03 Alexis Lejeune's Journey in Gaming07:45 Understanding Applovin and Its Reputation11:28 Exploring Axon 2 and Its Functionality14:17 Campaign Strategies: D0, D7, and D28 Models22:43 Common Mistakes in User Acquisition27:22 Optimizing Campaigns on Applovin32:40 Data-Driven Campaign Strategies34:50 The Importance of Playable Ads38:09 Creative Optimization and User Engagement39:51 Creative Refresh Strategies44:45 Aplovin and TikTok: A Strategic Merge47:12 Facebook's Advertising Ambitions48:03 Maximizing ECPMs for Publishers54:51 Ad Formats: Length and User Experience56:34 Banner Refresh Rates and Optimization---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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
In this live-recorded episode from MAU Vegas, Matej sits down with Damon Marshall and Berkley Egenes of Xsolla's mobile leadership team to discuss how the April 30 court ruling opened the floodgates for direct-to-consumer monetization.We unpack:How mobile devs can now promote web shops directly inside iOS appsWhy this moment is the “William Wallace freedom moment” for game publishersHow Xsolla is helping everyone from indie devs to AAA publishers go directKey monetization tactics: segmented whale offers, welcome packs, Discord-driven promos, and loyalty systemsWhy capture rates are already rising from 10% to 30–50%What the future of Apple, attribution, and platform power looks like from hereThis is not theoretical. It's already happening. And it could mean 50% higher margins for mobile devs who act now.Get our MERCH NOW: 25gamers.com/shop---------------------------------------Xsolla Web Shop #gamedev #mobilegames #XsollaWebshopMaximize your game's revenue with Xsolla Web Shop. Sell in-game goods directly to players, reduce platform fees, and unlock 1,000+ global payment options.:rocket: Learn how to set up your Web Shop: https://xsolla.com/mobile-web-shop?utm_source=content-syndication&utm_medium=infuencer&utm_campaign=webshop2025&utm_content=25gamers---------------------------------------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.Host: Matej LancaricYoutube: https://youtu.be/aTuKkrKfvfUJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to MAU and Xsolla02:07 Roles and Responsibilities at Xsolla04:11 Impact of Recent Rulings on Mobile Gaming09:59 Direct-to-Consumer Strategies for Developers12:54 Leveraging Web Shops Post-Ruling17:18 Best Practices for Web Shop Implementation20:47 Innovations in Web Shop Features24:06 Revenue Growth and Market Trends27:13 Future of Mobile Gaming and Xsolla's Role---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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 LancaricDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai
Today, we take on Lands of Jail, a Chinese-built 4X survival-sim mashup that combines Frozen City onboarding, Whiteout Survival progression, and King Shot-style map layering, all dressed in prison jumpsuits, toy factories, and riot suppression mechanics.Lands of Jail is one of the weirdest, deepest, and most well-executed SLG hybrids we've seen in 2025. Built by Chinese studio eWorld, it mixes:Frozen City-style idle onboardingHardcore 4X warfareSaga events, riots, gacha, and Discord-forced alliance spamA prison toy factory (yes, really)And some of the most absurd AI-generated creatives on mobileIn this episode of 2.5 Gamers, we go deep on:What's working in monetization, pacing, and theme alignmentWhy King Shot might be its closest cousinWhere the game borrows from Whiteout Survival, and where it improvesHow creative strategy blends GTA, toilet humor, AI anime, and frozen family failsWhy this might be the next 4X template other Chinese devs will clone
We go “Full Steam Ahead” with a special guest, Adam Telfer, unpacking how Steam hits influence mobile game development in 2025: from Dreamdale-ified Palworld clones to digging simulators, idle RPG mashups, and more.The crew explores:Why some Steam-inspired mobile games (like Repo Online) hit 10M+ downloads and $1.3M in adsWhy others (like Lilith's Palworld clone) flop despite a powerful IP remixWhich genres (like Plinko roguelites and digging sims) are best suited for mobileThe risks of literal copy-paste ports — and what actually works insteadThe role of TikTok trends, Steam reviews, and organic play patterns in predicting successWhy execution, not inspiration, is the differentiatorIf you're scouting Steam hits for mobile adaptation, this episode is your blueprint for what works and what crashes.
In this solo 2.5 Gamers Monologue, Felix walks you through a full setup and strategy guide for AppLovin MAX mediation, from the basics to advanced performance optimization.Whether you're new to MAX or want to stop leaving revenue on the table, this video covers:How to set up ad units correctlyWhich networks to start with in 2025How to manage fill rates, waterfall placements, and API syncingWhat to monitor daily (like ad ARPDAU, viewer rates, and impressions per DAU)Real-world benchmarks for rewarded, interstitial, and banner formatsWhat advanced reporting still matters now that placements are being deprecatedThis is your complete starter guide to Applovin MAX.Using AppLovin MAX for ad monetization?This video is your complete, updated walkthrough — from setup to optimization — based on years of real-world experience.Felix breaks down:✅ How to set up ad units without overcomplicating things✅ Which networks to prioritize for rewarded, interstitial, and banner✅ How to connect APIs for accurate reporting (and avoid surprise payout gaps)✅ What to track daily: ad ARPDAU, viewer rates, and revenue trends✅ How to run clean A/B tests on bidders and placement floors✅ What to look for in advanced reports before placements go awayIf you're building any ad-monetized game or app, this is the baseline you need.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---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------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/LtEJuyad7dYJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Max Mediation02:05 Understanding Max Mediation's Market Position05:37 Getting Started with Max Mediation09:24 Setting Up Ad Units and Networks12:46 Analyzing Performance Data18:16 A/B Testing Strategies20:36 Advanced Reporting Techniques24:14 Conclusion and Next Steps---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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 LancaricDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai
How do you build a mobile game that does $168K/day in ad revenue… with no fail states, no IAP pressure, and a monetization wall that doesn't even kick in until level 24?You study Word Search Explorer, the latest word game from the Lands of Jail studio (PlaySimple/MTG), and a masterclass in calm, deliberate ad monetization.In this episode, we break down the ad placement strategy, retention metrics, and soft pacing systems that power one of the most deceptively profitable games on the App Store in 2025.
Want real ROAS benchmarks from 300+ games and $200 M+ in spend?This episode of 2.5 Gamers goes deep with ZJ from PVX Partners, who brings an insane dataset from UA financing across puzzle, casual, strategy, and 4X games.We cover what's really happening in 2025:
We talk with the Drama Pops team from Codeway — one of Turkey's top mobile app publishers — about how they scaled a short drama app from scratch into one of the most promising products in the entertainment app space.www.codeway.cohttps://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.deepvision.shortdrama&hl=en
In this episode, the 2.5 Gamers crew — Matej, Felix, and Jakub — dissect the top mobile ad creative trends spotted across platforms in April 2025.From AI-generated hooks dominating 5-second ad intros, to IP-mirroring creatives, TikTok-style POV playables, and Freezing Families never going away — this is a masterclass in what's hot (and not) in mobile game UA right now.You'll see:⚙️ The rise of AI-generated 5-second hooks — and how top studios use them
Ever wonder why some gacha systems print money, while others crash in weeks?In this special solo deep-dive, Jakub from 2.5 Gamers breaks down everything you need to know about gacha system design, from token economies to deck-building, duplicate handling, meta shifts, and the subtle art of collection drivers.If you're building a game with gacha mechanics — or just want to understand why Genshin, AFK Arena, and Clash Royale all work so differently — this episode is essential viewing.What You'll Learn:The 3 core gacha models: Solid Token, Shard, and Merge GachaWhy deck size and collection drivers are make-or-breakThe truth behind duplicate value, token pacing, and gacha depthHow games like Monster Strike, Puzzle & Dragons, and Survivor.io manage their meta and scale contentThe trade-offs between luck, grind, and progression frictionWhy Asia and the West design gacha systems so differentlyThis is a GDC-level masterclass packed into one podcast.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 LancaricPodcast: Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Gacha Systems02:21 Understanding Gacha and Loot Boxes04:10 Core Components of Gacha Systems15:17 Exploring Solid Token Gacha27:39 Understanding Shard Token Gacha40:53 Exploring Merge Token Gacha48:21 Future of Gacha Systems---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------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 LancaricDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai
MAU Events:May 20, Tuesday Pre-Game 4pm PT https://lu.ma/919nx0pqMay 21, Wednesday brunch 11am PT https://lu.ma/krnfc16qMay 2,1 Wednesday Gaming Soiree 4pm PT https://lu.ma/il21m7r7Disney Solitaire is scaling fast. Today, we break down how SuperPlay + Playtika + Disney IP = one of the smartest casual game executions in years.From a familiar Domino Dreams-style template to a scaling UA strategy (with estimated $1.5M/day in spend), Disney Solitaire targets nostalgia-rich audiences with high production polish, deep progression systems, and sneaky monetization.
On April 30th, 2025, a U.S. court ruled that Apple's anti-steering policies are anti-competitive and unenforceable.That single sentence could redefine the mobile app economy.For the first time ever, developers can now directly link to their own web stores from inside their iOS apps, promoting them, pricing them competitively, and funneling players off-platform without fear of being banned.We unpacked everything on a special emergency episode with Chip Thurston, Head of Gaming at FastSpring (and former Scopely product leader)
What if a cozy puzzle game could generate $80K/day — with 89% of that from ads? Dreamy Room is the breakout hit you didn't see coming. It's not Royal Match. It's not hypercasual. It's deterministic puzzling at its finest — and it's scaling fast.We break down why Dreamy Room is crushing downloads, how its simple-but-hard core loop drives ad revenue at scale, and why it's one of the most innovative ultra-casual games of 2025.
Meta just changed the game for ad monetized mobile apps — and if you're not testing AdROAS campaigns yet, you're already behind.In this 2.5 Gamers solo deep dive, Matej walks through exactly how to set up Meta's new AdROAS campaigns, how to unlock the hidden value in your ad impressions, and why this is a must-have in your UA strategy for Android in 2025.
$400M/year from all apps? 40M downloads for a 15-minute book summary?In this 2.5 Gamers episode, we explore how Genesis became one of the biggest non-game mobile app publishers in the world, with over $35M/month in revenue, and 400 M+ total downloads.Forget games for a minute. This is the app industry's secret playbook, and it's scaling like crazy.
In this episode, we sit down with the team behind Airflux, the AI-powered ad optimizer from Airbridge, and unpack how it's quietly changing the rules of mobile game monetization.
In this episode, we dive deep into the wild world of ad monetization trends in mobile gaming for 2025. From Vietnamese studios like ABI Games printing money daily to hypercasual reskins and even mobile rip-offs of popular Steam games, we break it all down.
No UA. No App Store tricks. Chess.com - just 650 remote workers, a Netflix show, a cat bot named Mittens, and a $500M/year business.We dive deep into one of the most fascinating growth stories in mobile: chess.com.From Queen's Gambit virality to Magnus Carlsen's meme-worthy genius, we explore how chess.com built a mobile app empire on subscriptions, community, and strategic chaos — all without running a single ad campaign.
What do you get when you mash Fallout Shelter, AFK Journey, and Batman?
30% of your revenue could be coming from a web shop, and you wouldn't even see it in your external IAP dashboards.In this exclusive episode of 2.5 Gamers, we sit down with David Stelzer, President of Xsolla (formerly Epic Games, SEGA, CAA), to discuss how top-grossing games are ditching App Store dependency and scaling through direct-to-consumer (D2C) models.This isn't theoretical.
What if Royal Match and EverMerge had a baby… and it made $250K/day?That's Matching Story, the surprise hit that blended match-3, merge, and classic narrative-driven creatives into one of the most polished casual games of 2025.Today, we dissect how Matching Story, which soft-launched in 2021, took its time, perfected its systems, and is now out-earning most casual titles on the charts.
What if we told you that the biggest mobile game hits right now are recycling 5-year-old concepts and adding AI?Today, we break down March 2025's biggest creative trends in mobile gaming — from AI-generated dress-up ads to the rise of near-death experiences in Royal Match clones. You'll see what's scaling, who's winning, and how games pull record revenue by recycling, remixing, and reinvigorating.
Struggling to squeeze more $$$ from your ads? You might be losing thousands just by misusing AdMob.Today, Felix Braberg reveals the exact setup, tips, and optimization tactics he uses to scale ad revenue for games earning $350M+ in lifetime revenue.
What happens when a cat simulator, born as a VR meme on Meta Quest, lands on mobile with aggressive monetization and viral magic? You get a $300,000/day monster hits. I am Cat with I am Security = 300k/day ad revenue!Today, we break down the bizarre and brilliant rise of I Am Cat and I Am Security — the mobile games that took over app stores in March 2025 with:Over 2.6M DAU$170K/day from I Am Cat$120K/day from I Am Security60s interstitial loops and mandatory rewarded adsOrigin story: a team call about cats turned into a Goat Simulator-style sandbox hitFrom VR on MetaQuest to top-ranked free games on Android & iOSAlmost no IAP – ads are the economyInsane virality via YouTube Shorts & TikTok (34M+ views!)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/zVjfrpqeKSwJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction and Game Overview04:24 The Rise of Astotti and Their Games06:50 Exploring the Success of 'I'm Cat' and 'I'm Security'10:24 The Transition from VR to Mobile Gaming13:10 Ad Monetization Strategies in Mobile Games16:30 User Engagement and Game Mechanics19:31 Revenue Insights and Market Performance20:19 The Rise of Simulation Games23:37 Analyzing Game Revenue and User Engagement24:51 Exploring IAM Security Game Mechanics29:23 Revenue Insights and Market Sustainability32:35 Future of Game Development and Marketing Strategies36:28 Viral Marketing Strategies in Gaming39:56 The Impact of Social Media on Game Popularity43:40 Analyzing Game Monetization and Profitability46:50 The Evolution of Game Concepts and Trends52:06 Conclusion and Future of Gaming---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysVR to mobile = untapped goldmine, especially for meme-ready contentAggressive ad placement can work if player retention is fueled by curiosity + chaosLow CPI + high engagement = ideal organic UA funnel"I Am Cat" and "I Am Security" are a masterclass in viral design, zero-to-monetization speed, and how to turn meme energy into millions..---------------------------------------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 LancaricDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai
Today, we are tearing down Kingshot by Century Games – a new free-to-play mobile strategy game blending 4X strategy and idle survival mechanics. Our provides a detailed, data-driven look at Kingshot's gameplay design, monetization strategies, creative marketing trends, and its competitive context.We examine how Kingshot builds on Century Games' previous hit, Whiteout Survival. The video dissects Kingshot's core gameplay loop – from its survival city-building and fixed-base progression to its 4X alliance warfare on the world map – highlighting how familiar mechanics are executed and improved.Beyond gameplay and revenue, this teardown highlights creative trends in user acquisition. You'll learn how Kingshot's ad creatives leverage popular trends – from fake gameplay mini-games to AI-generated characters. 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/lZAAOCS2GkMJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes04:23 Game Overview: Kingshot by Sentry Games07:27 Game Mechanics and Design Elements10:25 Onboarding and Gameplay Experience13:34 Monetization Strategies and Player Engagement21:05 The Importance of Game Mechanics23:38 Analyzing Game Revenue and Player Retention29:00 Funding and Scaling Game Development32:20 Comparative Analysis of Game Portfolios35:24 The Future of Game Genres and Market Trends40:08 The Evolution of Game Mechanics42:28 Creative Inspirations in Game Development46:11 AI and Creative Trends in Gaming50:35 Marketing Strategies and Spending in Mobile Games52:35 Future Prospects of Game Titles---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------Takeaways King Shot Is a Genre Mashup Done RightThe “In-Game Bank” Monetization Is Next-LevelKing Shot runs hundreds of creatives, from Rush Royale clones to fake survival stories and AI-generated UGC—proving that creative variety is king.Built on a Proven Template for Rapid ScalingWith pressure from River Game's stacked portfolio, King Shot isn't just a game—it's a strategic move to stay competitive in the 4X mobile space.---------------------------------------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
Where to get creative inspiration? That is always the hard question. Maybe the hardest one! Let's dig a little bit deeper: There are companies/games you need to follow to uncover the recent creative trends. Continue reading!Get the Creative bible now: https://lancaric.substack.com/p/the-creative-bible-how-to-win-in?r=7qqafAlways check the competitors. Use the FB Ads library, TikTok Ad library, and Google Ads transparency center; on top of that, use Adscan.ai to spy on your competitors and see which creative is spending the most in Europe (the most-spending creative is most likely their best-performing creative at that moment).I usually use a combination of the above-mentioned free tools and Sensor Tower—a quite good combo! Go and see the top creatives in the last 30 days; they give you super interesting insights.
This is not just another mobile puzzle game. Screwdom 3D is a MASTERCLASS in hybrid casual design, monetization, and creativity.In this episode, we dive deep into how a small Vietnamese studio is scaling up Screwdom 3D into a $3.6M/month beast, powered by killer rewarded ads, smart boosters, and wildly satisfying 3D physics. Think Screw Jam meets Pinout Master meets genius-level iteration.
Last Z: Survival shooter is basically a Top Girl with AI girls as heroes mixed with a Last War 4X core. Top Girls are everywhere. It's a new Waifu game in the West. We explore the mobile game Last Z Survival Shooter's gameplay mechanics, character dynamics, and monetization strategies. We discuss the game's onboarding process, the integration of AI, and the cultural references embedded within the game. The conversation also touches on regulatory challenges facing the gaming industry and the future of the 4X genre, highlighting the trends and metrics that indicate growth in this sector.Ending with reflections on the implications of these trends for the gaming landscape.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 LancaricPodcast: Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction and Context04:06 Game Review: Last Z: Survival Shooter07:11 Analyzing Game Metrics and Trends10:16 Onboarding and Gameplay Mechanics13:14 Character Dynamics and AI Integration16:09 Monetization Strategies and User Engagement19:10 Cultural References and Game Design22:07 Conclusion and Future Insights25:44 Game Mechanics and Character Development28:11 Creative Strategies in Game Marketing31:07 Trends in Game Advertising and Regulation37:07 AI and Game Development Innovations41:10 Revenue Trends in the 4X Genre---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------Takeaways'Last Z: Survival Shooter' blends familiar mechanics from previous titles.AI integration is becoming increasingly prevalent in mobile games.Monetization strategies are evolving, focusing on user engagement and character dynamics.Cultural references in games can enhance player connection and engagement.Regulatory challenges are emerging as the industry grapples with content standards.The 4X genre is experiencing significant growth, driven by successful titles.Character dynamics play a vital role in player engagement and game success.The gaming industry is increasingly leaning towards content that appeals to basic human needs.---------------------------------------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=true
In this episode, Jakub goes into the intricacies of game economies, focusing on the concepts of spend depth and effective spend depth. He explains how these metrics are crucial for understanding player engagement and monetization strategies in games. Through practical examples from popular games like Clash Royale and Survivor.io, he illustrates how to calculate and increase spend depth while managing content effectively. The monologue also touches on the challenges of maintaining a balanced game economy and the importance of supporting new content with appropriate progression layers.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/3YcIfmBLZw8Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Game Economies02:58 Understanding Spend Depth and Effective Spend Depth07:49 Calculating Spend Depth in Different Game Genres11:35 Increasing Spend Depth: Case Study of Survivor.io17:11 Advanced Game Economies: Honkai Star Rail and Beyond---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysSpend depth represents the total money a user can spend in a game.Effective spend depth is the specific resources needed to access end-game content.Calculating spend depth requires understanding the game's currency and upgrade costs.Different game genres have unique methods for calculating spend depth.Increasing spend depth involves adding new layers of progression and content.Content management is crucial to support new progression layers in games.Game economies can become bloated if not managed properly.Understanding competitor spend depth can inform your game's economy design.Player engagement metrics are essential for balancing game economies.The longevity of a game depends on its ability to introduce new content and challenges.---------------------------------------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
In this episode, we discuss Supercell's latest game launch, MoCo, exploring Mo.co gameplay mechanics, monetization strategies, and overall market positioning. We go into the game's features, compare it to other action RPGs, and analyze its potential for future success in the gaming industry.https://lancaric.me/future-of-ua-creators-mobile-user-acquisition/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/AqdL57Mh6FkJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview04:12 MoCo Launch and Initial Impressions07:24 Gameplay Mechanics and Features10:04 Inventory and Equipment System13:13 Monetization and Shop Features16:08 Game Modes and Progression18:34 Elite Hunter Program and Seasonal Content24:50 The Launch of MoCo: A New Era for Supercell27:59 Monetization Strategies: Balancing Profit and Player Experience29:58 Design Philosophy: The Challenge of Endgame Content34:50 Influencer Marketing: Supercell's Creator Program41:59 The Impact of Marketing Strategies on Game Success---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysSupercell's MoCo is a streamlined action RPG.The game features a polished and finished look.Gameplay is designed to be snappy and user-friendly.Monetization focuses heavily on cosmetics and battle passes.The game employs a gacha system for cosmetics.We express skepticism about the game's long-term appeal.Endgame content is a significant factor for player retention.Supercell's marketing strategy includes leveraging content creators.---------------------------------------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
Jakub and Felix discuss the latest trends in mobile gaming, focusing on new game releases, soft launches, and the impact of monetization strategies. We explore unique gameplay concepts, particularly in the match-3 genre, and analyze the role of intellectual property in game development. The conversation also touches on future predictions for mobile gaming and the challenges developers face in a competitive market.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/g04p176ZrDgJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Emerging Trends in Mobile Gaming12:17 The Evolution of Merge Games15:27 AI and Waifu Games: A New Frontier18:16 Unique Gameplay Mechanics in New Titles21:28 Family Farm Match: A New Take on Match-324:23 Exploring the Alpha of a New Pirate Game27:28 Supercell's Latest Innovations29:22 The Rise of User-Generated Content in Gaming30:37 Marketability of New Games31:46 Trends in Game Development33:11 Emerging Game Concepts34:37 The Match-3 Game Landscape37:15 Innovations in Game Mechanics40:12 RPGs and Their Appeal42:33 The Future of Game Genres45:46 The Impact of IP in Gaming---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysHoma is scaling rapidly with IAP-driven games.Soft launches are crucial for user acquisition.The merge genre is facing intense competition.Unique gameplay concepts can differentiate new games.Match-3 games continue to dominate the market.IP can significantly influence a game's success.The mobile gaming landscape is evolving with new mechanics.Developers must adapt to changing player preferences.Monetization strategies are key to sustaining 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 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
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
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
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
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
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
In this episode, we dive into the world of gacha games, focusing on the popular title Love and Deep Space.We explore the game's mechanics, revenue generation, and character interactions while also discussing the broader context of otome games and their appeal in the gaming market. The conversation highlights the game's unique features, including its combat system, dating mechanics, and ASMR elements, as well as the marketing strategies employed to attract players.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/wMBL7Z9qL88 Join our Slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction 01:37 Exploring Game Development03:17 Understanding Gacha Games and Waifu Genre06:46 The Success of Otome Games10:47 The Evolution of Paper Games and Love Nikki15:46 Cultural Context of Gaming in Asia20:54 Gameplay Mechanics of Love and Deep Space22:32 Exploring Combat Mechanics in Gacha Games24:16 The Dating Core: Building Relationships in Gameplay26:36 Innovative Features: ASMR and Photo Studio Mechanics28:41 Gacha Mechanics: The Money Maker of the Game31:10 User Engagement: The Role of Ads and Marketing35:16 Revenue Insights: Understanding the Game's Success39:56 Creative Strategies: Marketing and User Acquisition44:21 Conclusion: Learning from Niche Games---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysGacha games, particularly the waifu genre, are discussed in detail.Otome games are identified as a growing trend, especially among female gamers.Revenue insights reveal that 'Love and Deep Space' is generating substantial income.The game features a unique blend of storytelling and interactive mechanics.Character interactions play a crucial role in player engagement.Combat systems in gacha games are becoming more complex and engaging.ASMR features are introduced as a novel element in gaming.Love and Deep Space could do way more in their UA activities.---------------------------------------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 LancaricDo you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask Matej AI - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai
In this episode, 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
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.
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
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
We review a new puzzle game from Vietnam, Goods Puzzle: Sort Challenge, discussing its gameplay mechanics, design, monetization strategies, and user engagement. We explore the challenges players face, the game's level structure, and how it compares to other titles in the genre. The conversation also delves into the game's ad revenue potential and future market trends, concluding with ratings and overall impressions.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/hZ3EfncFR3QJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to the Game Review04:18 Gameplay Mechanics and Challenges07:24 Game Design and Level Structure10:19 Reward Systems and Monetization13:21 Final Thoughts and Insights16:20 The Rise of Casual Gaming Mechanics19:23 Understanding Shallow Economies in Casual Games22:23 The Evolution of Game Features and Events25:19 Ad Revenue Strategies in Puzzle Games28:14 Balancing Gameplay and New Features31:21 Revenue Insights and Future Projections34:53 Scaling and Profitability Insights36:17 Funding and User Acquisition Strategies37:10 Organic vs Paid Growth Dynamics38:20 Creative Strategies in User Acquisition40:48 Market Trends and User Engagement42:32 Advertising Channels and Budget Allocation45:02 Performance Metrics and Retention Strategies50:41 Game Evaluation and Future Recommendations---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------TakeawaysThe game presents significant challenges that require strategic thinking.Monetization through ads is a key revenue driver for the game.User engagement is crucial, with a focus on retention strategies.The game design includes innovative level structures that enhance gameplay.Comparative analysis shows the game is competitive within its genre.Future growth potential is promising based on current trends.The hosts emphasize the importance of balancing gameplay and monetization.Ad revenue estimates suggest a strong financial performance.The game has a unique appeal that resonates with casual gamers.Overall ratings reflect a positive reception of the game's mechanics.---------------------------------------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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