There is a framework called as “mechanistic formative feedback” which says that the game should teach you about the rules through its own mechanism, imagine the snake game on our qwerty pad phones. They were addictive because there wasn’t any verbal feedback included. the player learnt by playing it more often. I have seen that being helpful!

Maintaining player engagement over time requires mechanics that evolve naturally and offer rewarding experiences. • Focus on player agency: Create systems that allow players to make meaningful choices, shaping their experience and encouraging replayability. • Introduce dynamic mechanics: Design features that adapt based on player behavior, ensuring the game feels fresh with each session. • Reward progression creatively: Implement unique and surprising rewards tied to achievements or milestones to keep players invested. This approach keeps gameplay engaging, providing long-term appeal while maintaining player interest.

I’d first evaluate why I’m missing the target. If there’s no churn but engagement is low (short sessions), I’d suspect the core gameplay is failing: players log in for meta rewards but don’t find the core loop engaging. Adding surface mechanics would only be an inefficient patch; the game must first be inherently fun and rewarding. If core engagement is already healthy and I want to extend it, I’d follow the recommendations shared by other colleagues answering this question.

A point I would also bring depending on already available mechanics would be to include customisation in some way. Players with a strong connection to their character's / home / inventory or other items will be more inclined to return. And if there are already mechanics that embody this then seasonal/ themed additions to these will likely bring returning players back to claim these items. Never underestimate a players connection to the stories, worlds and heroes and homes they can create. And what it will mean to them when these ideas get expanded upon.

Reach out to players and Identify where your content disconnects with broader community expectations, patch it in part for the short term to show that you’re listening and observe the changes in play patterns. Is there a clash of systems that stymies meaningful engagement? Announce patches coming to the Beta to address the issue, and rework the patching schedule. That puts community eyes on your work and communicates serious intent. Is there a fond wish that players have had since day one regarding the game that has become a sticking point? Publicly bring team leads together to workshop and demo solutions to address the gap. Tease that changes are in the works to address the issue to keep momentum. Every step forward generates good will.