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 wil...
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 - [email protected]
---------------------------------------
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
--------
50:16
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 - [email protected]
---------------------------------------
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
--------
50:29
How Ads increase IAP & Subscription revenue by Felix Braberg
Felix Braberg discusses the evolving landscape of ad monetization in mobile apps and games. He highlights the shift towards mobile apps, the increasing importance of ad quality, and innovative strategies for driving in-app purchases (IAPs) and subscriptions. He delves into the brain training app market, effective ad messaging techniques, and psychological pricing strategies that enhance user engagement and revenue generation.
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
Youtube: https://youtu.be/V9tr_ZbVFHY
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 Trends
03:10 Shift from Games to Mobile Apps
06:01 Ad Quality and User Experience
10:11 Brain Training Apps: A Case Study
17:00 Innovative Remove Ads Strategies
20:47 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
---------------------------------------
Matej Lancaric
User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant
https://lancaric.me
Felix Braberg
Ad monetization consultant
https://www.felixbraberg.com
Jakub Remiar
Game design consultant
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar
---------------------------------------
Takeaways
2025 is predicted to be the year of mobile apps.
There is a significant shift from games to mobile apps.
Ad quality is declining, leading to creative monetization strategies.
Push notifications can effectively drive user engagement.
Double-choice pricing can enhance perceived value.
Bundling IAPs with ad removal increases user purchases.
Mobile app companies are gaining traction in downloads.
Innovative ad strategies are crucial for revenue growth.
User experience is impacted by longer ad formats.
Understanding user psychology is key to effective monetization.
---------------------------------------
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 - [email protected]
---------------------------------------
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
--------
22:39
Unlocking the Secrets of Color Block Jam: The New Puzzle Sensation
We dive into the mechanics, revenue, and market positioning of the new puzzle game Color Block Jam by @rollic-games We discuss its gameplay design, ad revenue potential, user engagement, and competitive landscape while also exploring future prospects and user acquisition strategies.
The discussion highlights the game's deterministic nature and its appeal in the mobile gaming market, alongside insights into monetization and retention strategies. Color Block Jam review shows the Color Block Jam gameplay and walkthrough of levels while discussing revenue potential.
Color Block Jam is using altered gameplay in UA + Creatives. Good start!
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/hdB9vlg5Hdo
---------------------------------------
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
---------------------------------------
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 Color Block Jam and Revenue Insights
04:45 Gameplay Mechanics and Design of Color Block Jam
09:49 Ad Revenue and User Engagement Analysis
14:55 Market Positioning and Competitive Landscape
19:56 Future Prospects and Retention Strategies
25:00 User Acquisition Strategies and Creative Trends
29:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
---------------------------------------
Matej Lancaric
User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant
https://lancaric.me
Felix Braberg
Ad monetization consultant
https://www.felixbraberg.com
Jakub Remiar
Game design consultant
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar
---------------------------------------
Takeaways
Color Block Jam is generating significant daily revenue. Already at 150k/day and growing.
The game features deterministic puzzles that enhance player engagement.
Ad revenue begins after level 14, impacting monetization strategies.
The game's mechanics are similar to other successful puzzle games.
Creative trends in user acquisition are shifting towards harder gameplay.
The game's success relies on effective monetization without compromising user experience.
Future updates may introduce new mechanics to enhance gameplay.
---------------------------------------
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 - [email protected]
---------------------------------------
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
--------
40:11
Project R.I.S.E Alpha Test First Look: Gameplay & impressions! What's next for @supercell ?
We dive into the closed alpha testing of Project Rise, a new game from Supercell. We discuss gameplay mechanics, user interface changes, and the challenges players face.
The conversation also touches on the importance of tower upgrades, the introduction of new features and perks, and the role of bots in gameplay.
We also expressed our thoughts on the game's long-term viability and compared it to other titles in the market, ultimately questioning its casual appeal and future direction.
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/foFP_BDXh84
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 Project Rise and Gameplay Mechanics
03:11 Game Development Insights and Alpha Testing
05:54 Gameplay Experience and User Interface Changes
08:45 Tower Upgrades and Game Progression
12:05 Exploring New Features and Perks
15:07 Challenges in Gameplay and Player Strategies
18:01 The Role of Bots and Team Dynamics
20:57 Meta Progression and Long-term Game Viability
23:47 Comparative Analysis with Other Games
27:13 Final Thoughts and Future Predictions
30:41 Game Progression and Leveling Up
35:16 Balancing Game Difficulty and Player Experience
40:11 Comparing Game Mechanics and Market Positioning
45:29 Final Thoughts and Future Predictions
---------------------------------------
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
Supercell focuses on refining successful game mechanics.
Project Rise is currently in its alpha testing phase.
Gameplay is easier with the introduction of bots.
The user interface has seen significant improvements.
Tower upgrades play a crucial role in game progression.
New features and perks enhance the gameplay experience.
Players face challenges that require strategic thinking.
The game may appeal to a niche audience.
Comparisons with other games highlight its unique position.
---------------------------------------
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 - [email protected]
---------------------------------------
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
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!