two & a half gamers

Lancaric.me
two & a half gamers

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

  1. Creative Trends in Mobile gaming - January 2025

    1 DAY AGO

    Creative Trends in Mobile gaming - January 2025

    In this episode, we dive into the latest creative trends and insights in the gaming industry, focusing on creative trends and strategies, emotional advertising, and the growing impact of AI in mobile game marketing. We analyze successful game creatives, share thoughts on the evolution of marketing strategies, and explore how emotions are essential for engaging players. Together, we highlight the importance of iteration in improving game performance and discuss the future of game marketing as AI reshapes the industry. Join us for a comprehensive discussion that blends data, creativity, and cutting-edge technology to uncover what’s next for game marketers and developers alike. Our Music Album: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2o80XDfSqkDIqmuc5tOZdt 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 Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/S5hOmIjVRYE Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Gaming Landscape 03:02 Creative Trends in Game Advertising 05:53 Analyzing Successful Game Creatives 09:02 The Importance of Iteration in Game Development 11:58 Understanding Game Revenue Dynamics 14:58 Exploring New Game Concepts and Mechanics 17:55 The Role of Physics in Game Creatives 21:01 Future Directions in Game Advertising 24:23 The Evolution of Top War's Marketing Strategy 27:18 Creative Iteration in Game Advertising 30:12 Visual Styles and Game Mechanics 31:32 User-Generated Content in Game Promotion 34:09 Innovative Advertising Techniques in Gaming 36:35 The Role of Celebrity Endorsements 39:10 AI and Creative Trends in Game Marketing --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Successful creatives often use satisfying physics interactions. Iteration in game development is crucial but can be unpredictable. Understanding player psychology is key to successful game design. The future of gaming will rely on creativity and player satisfaction. Top War's marketing strategy is evolving with creative iterations. User-generated content is becoming more prominent in promotions. Innovative advertising techniques are essential for engagement. Celebrity endorsements can significantly impact game visibility. AI is influencing creative trends in-game marketing. The gaming industry is seeing a shift towards emotional storytelling. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me Playable trends: https://lancaric.substack.com/p/playbles-trends-in-mobile-games-january?r=7qqaf

    47 min
  2. Key aspects for Mobile Game Growth in 2025: UA, speed, monetization & globalization with Airbridge

    5 DAYS AGO

    Key aspects for Mobile Game Growth in 2025: UA, speed, monetization & globalization with Airbridge

    Today, we talked about how to break the charts in 2025 for hybrid and hyper-casual games. Buckle up for this takeaway-packed interview - it might just be the spark your game needs to blow up. Despite the chatter about mobile game growth hitting the brakes, especially after the COVID-fueled boom that supercharged hyper-casual and hybrid-casual games, the industry is far from slowing down. As we pointed out, mobile game growth in 2025 is driven by three key aspects: speed, monetization, and globalization. -------------------------------------- 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. Host: Roi Nam Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Podcast: Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of In-App Advertising 05:55 The Global Gaming Landscape 12:10 Emerging Markets in Gaming 17:51 Strategies for Game Success 23:53 User Acquisition Channel Diversification 30:21 Hybrid Monetization: The Key to Success 36:01 Segmentation Strategies in User Acquisition 39:39 The Role of Creatives in User Acquisition 50:01 The Evolving Role of UA Managers 57:20 Global Expansion: Navigating Cultural Differences --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar Roi Nam CEO Airbridge https://www.linkedin.com/in/roinam/ https://www.airbridge.io/ --------------------------------------- Takeaways Players who are likely to spend on in-app purchases should see fewer ads. The gaming industry is seeing a significant upward trend in app development. Emerging markets like Vietnam and Turkey are becoming key players in mobile gaming. Speed and adaptability are crucial for success in the gaming industry. User acquisition strategies must evolve to include diversification across channels. A good game is just the starting point; a great user acquisition strategy is essential. CPI versus LTV is a critical equation for game success. The landscape of mobile gaming is shifting towards more diverse and innovative games. Rewarded ad platforms are gaining traction in the market. Hybrid monetization combines the best of hypercasual and casual games. User acquisition is crucial for successful monetization strategies. Segmentation allows for tailored experiences based on player behavior. Creatives, especially playables, are essential for effective user acquisition. UA managers must adapt to evolving roles in the gaming industry. A robust in-game economy is vital for monetization success. Cultural differences must be considered when expanding globally. Feature-heavy games may not perform well in Western markets. --------------------------------------- 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

    1h 3m
  3. A Beginners Guide to UA: The Fundamentals by Matej Lancaric

    6 DAYS AGO

    A Beginners Guide to UA: The Fundamentals by Matej Lancaric

    In this episode, Matej Lancaric provides a comprehensive guide to mobile user acquisition (UA), covering essential terms, metrics, and strategies for beginners and experienced marketers. He emphasizes the importance of data integrity, navigating privacy changes, and the role of creativity in UA campaigns. The discussion also includes insights on leveraging paid, owned, and earned media and the impact of AI on marketing strategies. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Podcast: Articles: https://lancaric.me/ua-manager-life-post-idfa-reality/ https://lancaric.me/influencer-marketing-guide-ua-in-2024/ https://lancaric.substack.com/p/stay-ahead-in-ua-for-2025-my-top Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to User Acquisition 01:15 Understanding User Acquisition Fundamentals 03:11 Key Metrics in User Acquisition 08:47 The Importance of Data Integrity 10:39 Navigating Privacy Changes in User Acquisition 12:31 Creative Strategies for User Acquisition 13:30 Paid, Owned, and Earned Media Strategies 17:09 Building and Engaging Your Own Audience 19:54 App Store Optimization and Content Marketing 23:50 Leveraging Earned Media and Press Relations 25:38 The Role of AI in User Acquisition --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways UA is a fast-moving field that requires constant learning. Understanding key metrics is crucial for effective UA. Data integrity is essential for making informed decisions. Privacy changes are reshaping the landscape of UA. Creative strategies must evolve to combat user fatigue. Paid, owned, and earned media are all vital components of UA. Building a loyal audience can enhance user engagement. App Store Optimization is key for visibility and installs. Content marketing helps build trust and authority. AI tools can significantly enhance marketing efficiency. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

    27 min
  4. Cracking the 4X Code: Billion Dollar Strategy (2.5gamers x GameMakers crossover)

    FEB 10

    Cracking the 4X Code: Billion Dollar Strategy (2.5gamers x GameMakers crossover)

    Our conversation dives into the evolving landscape of game marketing, particularly focusing on the 4X genre and the dynamics between successful game studios like First Fun and River Game. The discussion highlights the importance of user acquisition strategies, server management, and the integration of gameplay with marketing efforts. We also explore the future of 4X games, the impact of themes and reskins, and the innovative use of AI ingame mechanics. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of 4X game design, exploring its economic foundations, innovative mechanics, and the role of AI in shaping user acquisition strategies. We discuss the sustainability of the 4X model, future trends in user acquisition, and the evolution of game genres, culminating in predictions for the 4X market's trajectory. --------------------------------------- PVX Partners offers non-dilutive funding for game developers. Go to: https://pvxpartners.com/ They can help you access the most effective form of growth capital once you have the metrics to back it. - Scale fast - Keep your shares - Drawdown only as needed - Have PvX take downside risk alongside you + Work with a team entirely made up of ex-gaming operators and investors --------------------------------------- This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Matej Lancaric⁠, Joseph Kim, Justin Yau Youtube:https://youtu.be/t28sVVnYWKw Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Game Marketing Strategies 02:54 Understanding First Fun and River Game Dynamics 06:02 The 4X Game Landscape: Trends and Innovations 09:07 The Role of User Acquisition in Game Success 11:52 Server Management and Player Dynamics in 4X Games 15:09 Integrating Gameplay and User Acquisition 17:58 The Future of 4X Games: Multiple Core Strategies 20:59 The Impact of Themes and Reskins in Game Development 24:06 The Rise of AI in Game Mechanics 33:51 The Economics of Game Design 36:24 Innovations in Game Mechanics 39:12 Creative Strategies in User Acquisition 42:58 The Role of AI in Game Development 48:30 Future Trends in User Acquisition 54:01 Predictions for the 4X Market --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar Joseph Kim CEO, Lila Games https://lilagames.com/ & GameMakers Justin Yau https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinhbyau/ --------------------------------------- Takeaways First Fun & River Game share a complex relationship. The 4X genre is evolving with new strategies and themes. Server management is key to maintaining player engagement. The future of 4X games may involve multiple core strategies. AI is transforming user acquisition strategies in gaming. The 4X model's sustainability is under scrutiny due to high CPIs. Future trends in user acquisition will lean heavily on AI. The integration of AI in game development is becoming essential. 4X games are setting the standard for creative strategies. The evolution of game genres will incorporate 4X elements. Understanding 4X is vital for anyone in the gaming industry. Predictions suggest a shift towards more innovative gameplay in 4X games. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me

    1h 8m
  5. Ad placements & Admon trends in Mobile Games: January 2025

    FEB 6

    Ad placements & Admon trends in Mobile Games: January 2025

    We dive into the world of ad monetization in mobile games, reviewing several recent titles that rely heavily on ad revenue. We discuss the strategies behind these games, their performance metrics, and the implications for the gaming industry. We discuss the challenges parents face with kids' gaming, the success of ultra-casual games, and the aggressive monetization tactics employed by developers. --------------------------------------- PVX Partners offers non-dilutive funding for game developers. Go to: https://pvxpartners.com/ They can help you access the most effective form of growth capital once you have the metrics to back it. - Scale fast - Keep your shares - Drawdown only as needed - Have PvX take downside risk alongside you+ Work with a team entirely made up of ex-gaming operators and investors --------------------------------------- This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Special Guest: Katerina Maliaran Podcast: Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ad Monetization and Game Review 02:10 Exploring King Pin: A Case Study in Ad Revenue 14:20 Super Car Merge: Merging Genres and Monetization Strategies 20:44 Boo Boo and Mimi: The Power of Cuteness in Gaming 29:35 Tricky Twist Puzzle: The Rise of Ultra Casual Games 38:05 Indian Car Highway Drive: Targeting the Indian Market 42:24 Gold Rush: A Hybrid Casual Game Analysis --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Katerina Maliaran Head of Admonetization https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerina-maliaran-b35a78203/ --------------------------------------- Takeaways Ad monetization is a crucial aspect of mobile game development. King Pin has seen significant growth in daily active users since launch. Super Car Merge targets a male audience with its merge mechanics. Cuteness in games can drive downloads and engagement. Retention rates are critical for long-term success in mobile games. Ad revenue can be substantial for games with high daily active users. Cross-promotion strategies can enhance user engagement. In-game ads can be implemented without harming player experience. The mobile gaming ecosystem is still thriving despite challenges. Parental controls are essential for managing kids' gaming. Ultra-casual games are gaining significant traction in the market. Monetization strategies can greatly impact a game's success. Targeting specific demographics can lead to higher downloads. Aggressive ad placements can lead to user frustration. Hybrid casual games are blending genres for better user experience. Developers need to balance monetization with user satisfaction. Innovative ad formats can enhance revenue without alienating players. The mobile gaming landscape is constantly evolving with new trends. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric

    49 min
  6. Exploring Pokemon TCG Pocket's Revenue Trends by Jakub Remiar

    FEB 5

    Exploring Pokemon TCG Pocket's Revenue Trends by Jakub Remiar

    In this podcast, Jakub Remiar discusses the performance and updates of the Pokemon TCG Pocket game, focusing on revenue trends, user engagement, the new expansion, and the controversial trading system. He highlights the game's revenue spikes, user retention rates, and the implications of the trading mechanics on player experience. Also touches on the need for improved game features and the future of the game in terms of expansions and player engagement. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/XZ5_IbVvZJM Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Game's Performance 01:15 Revenue Trends and User Engagement 06:07 New Expansion and Card Mechanics 09:27 Trading System and Its Implications 18:02 Challenges in Game Features and Player Experience --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways The game is projected to generate around 980 million in revenue. Revenue spikes are typical for gacha games, with significant daily earnings. User engagement remains strong, with high daily active users. The US market is becoming increasingly important for revenue growth. The new expansion introduces unique cards and mechanics. The trading system has been criticized for being prohibitive and unintuitive. Players are frustrated with the lack of communication features in trading. The game needs a proper PvP ranking system to enhance competitiveness. Despite community backlash, the game continues to achieve record revenue. Future expansions are expected to keep the game fresh and engaging. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric Latest article - https://open.substack.com/pub/lancaric/p/match-3d-ua-playbook-real-data-inside?r=7qqaf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Do you have UA questions nobody can answer? Ask ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matej AI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - the First UA AI in the gaming industry! https://lancaric.me/matej-ai Felix Latest Article - https://www.felixbraberg.com/post/the-end-of-gam-and-admob-placement-refreshes

    24 min
  7. Game Review Radar #7: All-time highs! Random pundits think Balatro is dead. Think twice!

    FEB 3

    Game Review Radar #7: All-time highs! Random pundits think Balatro is dead. Think twice!

    In this episode, we explore game apps—their growth, challenges, and performance metrics. We examine monetization, user engagement, and the impact of offline and hybrid games while discussing anticipated titles and marketing strategies. We also cover scaling strategies, power progression layers, and future predictions for trading card games, emphasizing the need for creativity and innovation in the gaming industry. This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Podcast: Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg ---------------------------------------PVX Partners offers non-dilutive funding for game developers.Go to: https://pvxpartners.com/They can help you access the most effective form of growth capital once you have the metrics to back it.- Scale fast- Keep your shares- Drawdown only as needed- Have PvX take downside risk alongside you+ Work with a team entirely made up of ex-gaming operators and investors--------------------------------------- Chapters 00:00 The Growth and Challenges of Game Apps 02:27 Review Radar: Analyzing Game Performance 06:27 The Impact of Offline Games 12:08 The Rise and Fall of Anticipated Titles 19:05 Innovations in Game Monetization and User Engagement 26:24 Analyzing User Base and Market Trends 27:00 Marketing Strategies and Game Performance 29:10 The Rise of Hybrid Games and Competitions 30:33 Revenue Insights and Game Launch Success 31:14 The Evolution of Game Genres and Trends 32:17 Scaling Strategies for Game Development 33:20 The Future of Hubby Games 35:35 Power Progression Layers in Gaming 36:30 Comparative Analysis of Game Performance 38:07 User Engagement and Game Updates 40:04 Nostalgia and Market Competition 41:07 Predictions for Trading Card Games 43:32 Final Thoughts on Game Performance 48:15 Closing Remarks and Future Directions --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Offline games can still generate revenue despite perceptions of being dead. Anticipated titles can experience significant drops in user engagement post-launch. Understanding user demographics is key to effective marketing. Cross-promotions and collaborations can enhance user interest and retention. Marketing strategies play a crucial role in game performance. Hybrid games are becoming increasingly popular in the market. Revenue insights reveal the potential for significant earnings. The evolution of game genres is shaping player preferences. Scaling strategies are essential for successful game development. Power progression layers are a common trend in gaming. User engagement is critical for long-term success. Predictions for trading card games indicate a bright future. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric

    50 min
  8. High Seas Hero Game Review: Navigating through Scaling Challenges

    JAN 30

    High Seas Hero Game Review: Navigating through Scaling Challenges

    We explored the complexities of game scaling, user acquisition, and the mechanics of Century Games' new game, High Seas Hero. In our discussion, we unpacked game progression systems, monetization strategies, and the intricacies of global launches. We reflected on how gameplay innovation often clashes with monetization tactics that prioritize short-term revenue over long-term player satisfaction. We also debated the future of game design, mainly how user acquisition will evolve in an increasingly competitive market, and stressed the need to balance creativity with player-centric experiences. Throughout the conversation, we kept returning to one core idea: the gaming industry thrives when we challenge conventions without losing sight of what makes games enjoyable. Whether dissecting retention mechanics or debating global launch pitfalls, our focus remained on building games that resonate deeply with players while staying sustainable in a fast-paced market. --------------------------------------- PVX Partners offers non-dilutive funding for game developers. Go to: https://pvxpartners.com/ They can help you access the most effective form of growth capital once you have the metrics to back it. - Scale fast - Keep your shares - Drawdown only as needed - Have PvX take downside risk alongside you + Work with a team entirely made up of ex-gaming operators and investors --------------------------------------- This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously. Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠ Youtube: https://youtu.be/uO9gIP2LqBQ Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Game Scaling Challenges 03:07 User Acquisition and Funding Solutions 05:57 Exploring High Seas Hero Game Mechanics 12:06 Forex Game Dynamics and Player Engagement 18:06 Monetization Strategies in Forex Games 25:29 Game Progression and Innovation 28:25 Monetization Strategies and Player Experience 30:44 Global Launch and Market Dynamics 34:30 User Acquisition and Game Design 47:15 Future of Game Development and Competition --------------------------------------- Matej Lancaric User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant ⁠https://lancaric.me Felix Braberg Ad monetization consultant ⁠https://www.felixbraberg.com Jakub Remiar Game design consultant ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar --------------------------------------- Takeaways Game scaling often does not meet expectations due to various factors. High Seas Hero incorporates mechanics from other successful games. 4X games can confuse players with their complex dynamics. Player engagement is crucial for the success of any game. Generosity in game rewards can lead to imbalances in player strength. The hidden mechanics of 4X games can be challenging to navigate. The game was initially very engaging and rewarding for players. Global launches require careful consideration of market dynamics and player expectations. --------------------------------------- Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it! Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple! Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me --------------------------------------- If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric

    50 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

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

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