Avataryug- This week in apps and games (Edition 11)

Avataryug- Finally, a newsletter that talks about updates in the games and app industry.

We are presenting our very first newsletter - the #11th edition! Join us as we explore the thrilling highlights of the week👇

Highlights of the week       

1. Merge Mansion's $0.5B Milestone: Pioneering Player Engagement Strategies.

Metacore Games celebrates Merge Mansion's $0.5B milestone, scrutinizing its LiveOps strategy amidst revenue shifts in 2023. Recent stability suggests a promising trajectory. Unlike competitors favoring short-lived events, Merge Mansion prioritizes narrative-rich experiences and intricate mechanics. The triumph of Lucky Catch, with its inventive fishing dynamics and nuanced monetization, underscores Metacore's dedication to sustaining player engagement and driving revenue. This strategic pivot aligns with Metacore's vision for prolonged success and player satisfaction in 2024. (Source)

2. HypeHype: Bridging Roblox's Creativity with TikTok's Accessibility, Nears Launch

HypeHype, initially dubbed as 'TikTok for games', has transformed its creator tools to offer capabilities akin to mobile-native platforms such as Roblox. With Supercell's support, it has enhanced its offerings, providing advanced tools for game creation and real-time data analysis. During its soft launch phase, creators can monetize their games and retain 100% of the revenue generated. Although currently accessible in Finland, the Philippines, and Canada, HypeHype aims for global expansion once it refines its monetization features. (source)

3. Roblox Transforms Netflix Favorites into Interactive Worlds in Nextworld Theme Park.

Netflix is partnering with Roblox to launch Nextworld, a digital theme park featuring characters and content from popular Netflix shows and movies like Stranger Things, One Piece, Cobra Kai, and Rebel Moon. The immersive web-based universe offers interactive games like Stranger Things: Escape from Hawkins High and Rebel Moon: Outskirts Battles. Users can explore Nextworld, collect objects and wearables, and decorate their own private space called Fan Pod. Mini-games inspired by Netflix series, online events, and a Tudum Theater for viewing clips are also part of the experience. Currently, in early access, Netflix Nextworld aims to provide fans with a new way to engage with their favorite content. (Source)

4. Unveiling Google's Vision: AI Revolutionizing the Future of Gaming at Next-Gen Tech Forum

At this year's Game Developer Conference (GDC), Google showcased the profound influence of generative AI ("gen AI") on the gaming industry. Presentations explored the emergence of "living games" driven by gen AI, its integration into the game development lifecycle, and the transformative capabilities it offers for player interactions and storytelling. Google's initiatives include Gemini 1.5 Pro, Gemma models for lightweight and open development, and responsible AI toolkits. The future promises even more innovative tools like federated queries, amplifying the potential of generative AI in game development. (Source)

Person to follow in games:  

Wiktoria Wójcik

Over the past four years, Wiktoria Wójcik has played a pivotal role in facilitating connections between 200 brands and the expansive gaming community across 15 countries. With a background spanning from gaming and streaming to esports hosting and marketing, she has transitioned into an entrepreneurial force within the gaming industry. On platforms like LinkedIn, she shares her expertise in gaming marketing, advocating for more targeted and engaging approaches. At inStreamly, she spearheads initiatives to bridge brands with thousands of gaming streamers, emphasizing authentic engagement over traditional celebrity endorsements. 

Notable achievements include being recognized in Forbes' prestigious lists, speaking at numerous industry events, and championing diversity as a mentor and ambassador. With a track record of success and innovation, she continues to shape the future of gaming marketing, blending creativity with data-driven strategies to redefine how brands connect with gamers worldwide.

Person to follow in apps: 

Mariusz Gąsiewski     

As the CEE Mobile Gaming Lead at Google, Mariusz Gąsiewski is dedicated to advancing the mobile gaming and apps ecosystem across the region. With an extensive background of over 18 years in online marketing, he collaborates with leading companies within the gaming and apps industry, assisting them in enhancing their data and performance capabilities while facilitating connections with potential investors and partners. Notably, he spearheads scalable initiatives for gaming and app startups, including GameCamp, one of the largest mobile gaming communities worldwide, which he established at Google for Startups Campus. 

His overarching mission is to cultivate collaboration, education, and innovation among mobile gaming and apps enthusiasts and professionals. A frequent speaker at international events, he shares his insights and expertise on gaming trends, measurement, and data analysis, drawing from his experience both at Google and within the gaming and apps industry.

A Cool Case Study Of This Week

The Tapmyads & Avataryug Success Story: How Billiard's Pool Arena Maximized their Revenue and Protected Brand Experience with Avataryug

As the developer of the widely acclaimed Billiards Pool Arena game, Tapmyads encountered the common dilemma of many mobile game developers: how to amplify revenue streams while preserving brand integrity and operational efficiency. With limited internal resources, Tapmyads sought innovative solutions to bolster revenue without compromising on the quality of player experience. 

Recognizing the potential of Avataryug's comprehensive suite of monetization tools and LiveOps capabilities, Tapmyads embarked on a strategic partnership to unlock new revenue avenues and safeguard the essence of its brand. 

This case study delves into how Tapmyads leveraged Avataryug's expertise to overcome these challenges and achieve remarkable success in optimizing revenue generation while prioritizing brand experience.

With Avataryug's powerful suite of monetization tools and the right mix of LiveOps, the Billiards Pool Arena increased its revenue by more than 60%.

Strategy:

Tapmyads, the creator of Billiards Pool Arena, sought to maximize revenue without straining their small team or compromising their brand experience. To achieve this, they integrated Avataryug's LiveOps engine for monetization and privacy features.

Tagline:

"Maximizing Revenue, Protecting Privacy: How Tapmyads Leveraged Avataryug to Boost Revenue and Enhance Player Experience"

Outreach:

Tapmyads selected Avataryug to elevate their monetization strategy. By integrating Avataryug's suite of monetization tools and LiveOps capabilities, Billiards Pool Arena witnessed remarkable results. With Avataryug's guidance, Tapmyads implemented incremental ad revenue strategies and rewarded ads, leading to a 60% increase in revenue and a 7X ARPDAU boost. Additionally, Avataryug's Avatar Engine enhanced player experience and privacy by enabling players to customize their avatars.

Takeaways:

1. Maximizing Revenue: Avataryug's LiveOps engine empowered Tapmyads to maximize revenue through strategic monetization tactics and rewarded ads.
2. Enhanced Player Experience: Avataryug's Avatar Engine improved player experience and retention by allowing customization of avatars, thus enhancing privacy for players of all ages.
3. Optimized Strategies: Avataryug's guidance on the right mix of offers, A/B testing, and new ad unit optimization significantly increased in-game purchases and ad revenue opportunities.
4. Brand Protection: Despite revenue-focused strategies, Avataryug ensured brand integrity by prioritizing player privacy and experience.

By leveraging Avataryug's solutions, Tapmyads successfully achieved its revenue goals while maintaining a positive player experience, solidifying its position in the gaming industry.

Read the whole case study in more detail here.

Gaming trend of the week

The Console Crown: A Snapshot of the Ninth Generation

In the ongoing battle for console supremacy, the Nintendo Switch emerges as the unexpected champion, surpassing both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S in ownership statistics. Its success can be attributed to its extensive lineup of iconic exclusive franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. Despite Sony and Microsoft's efforts with their exclusives, they pale in comparison to Nintendo's revered titles. 

Interestingly, only a small fraction of global console gamers remain loyal to a single brand, leaving the second console slot up for grabs. The Switch not only dominates as the primary console but also as the most popular second choice. Conversely, the Series X/S struggles to secure a spot in entertainment units, while the PS5 boasts the most loyal following among single-console users.

While the current landscape favors the Switch, the future remains uncertain. As these devices continue to evolve, new contenders may emerge, posing challenges for Nintendo. However, with its established reputation and extensive user base, any successor to the Switch will have formidable shoes to fill amidst competition from Sony and Microsoft.

Game Of The Week

Backflip Madness 2

Backflip Madness 2, the sequel to the viral sensation Backflip Madness, has arrived on the App Store with major enhancements to its core mechanics. Developed by Gamesoul, the sequel introduces direct control of the character, allowing players to walk, run, jump, and climb through levels, transforming it into a full parkour simulator. The addition of combo jumps enables players to string together multiple flips, earning score multipliers and unlocking new possibilities for creative tricks and high scores. With its expanded gameplay and addictive mechanics, Backflip Madness 2 evokes the spirit of classic extreme sports games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, offering players a thrilling and challenging experience.

Backflip Madness 2 has hit the App Store, surprising and delighting fans of the original with its significant gameplay improvements. Developed by Gamesoul, this sequel introduces direct character control, allowing players to navigate levels with fluidity and freedom. The addition of combo jumps adds depth to the gameplay, enabling players to perform exhilarating tricks and earn score multipliers. With its expanded mechanics and reminiscent vibe of classic extreme sports games, Backflip Madness 2 promises an immersive and thrilling experience for players seeking a new challenge in mobile gaming.

Click here to download it on the Google Play Store for mobile.

Click here to download it on your PC.

Click here to download it on the Apple Play Store.

App of the week

Soul Browser- The Ultimate Mobile Browser Experience

Introducing a powerful and feature-packed browser, offering everything users need for a seamless browsing experience. From ad blocking and video downloading to advanced customization options, this browser stands out as a stylish and advanced choice. Key features include automatic translation, data saving, one-handed mode, dark theme, and much more. With no required permissions and optional permissions only requested when necessary for specific site functions, users can enjoy enhanced privacy and security. Whether browsing the web, editing layouts, or downloading videos, this browser delivers simplicity, power, and convenience in one package. 

This browser offers an unparalleled browsing experience, combining power and simplicity in a stylish package. With features like powerful ad blocking, video downloading, and extensive customization options, users have everything they need at their fingertips. From automatic translation to one-handed mode and dark theme, the browser caters to a wide range of preferences. With no required permissions and optional permissions requested only when necessary, users can enjoy enhanced privacy and security. Whether browsing, editing layouts, or downloading content, this browser provides a seamless and feature-rich experience for all users.

Download Soul Browser from the Google Play Store.

Creative of the week 

Idle Racer — Tap, Merge & Race

• Idle Racer: An engaging mobile game that blends creativity and passion for driving.
• Unique Car Building: Start with a basic car and upgrade it using in-game currency earned by tapping the screen.
• Upgrades Galore: Purchase new parts like engines, tires, and spoilers to enhance your car's performance.
• Merge for Power: Combine identical parts to create higher-level ones, boosting your car's speed and power.
• Personalization: Customize your car with a variety of parts, colors, and styles in the garage.
• Thrilling Races: Experience the adrenaline rush of drifting around corners and overtaking opponents.
• Rewards and Progression: Win races to earn rewards and unlock new possibilities in the game.
• Appeals to Car Enthusiasts: Perfect for gamers who love cars and the excitement of racing.

Watch the whole creative here.

Download Idle Racer from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Tip of the week

PR Tip: Crafting Effective Subject Lines for Press Outreach

"When reaching out for press coverage, offering exclusivity to a reporter can be key. Use a subject line formula that piggybacks off well-known brands or concepts, such as "Product A meets Product B," to make your app's purpose clear. For instance, "Farmville meets Candy Crush" or "Snapchat meets Yik Yak" can catch attention. This approach, combined with a clear value proposition, increases the chances of getting noticed by the press and garnering coverage for your app launch or announcement."

Upcoming sessions and events to follow

Upcoming Events in the gaming industry-

XP Game Summit 2024

When: June 13, 2024 - June 14, 2024

Where: The Toronto Hyatt Regency, Canada

The 2024 XP Game Summit, returning to Toronto's Hyatt Regency on June 13-14, will spotlight Intellectual Property (IP) innovation as a driving force behind Canada's gaming industry growth. With a focus on identifying, developing, and exporting Canadian gaming IP, the event aims to bridge the gap between talent and ownership in the industry. Organized by XP Gaming, Inc., known for its successful productions such as the Montreal International Game Summit (MIGS), the summit offers networking opportunities, expert speakers, and workshops to foster industry connections and explore key trends. 

Early bird discounts are available until March 1st, 2024, with options for speaking, exhibiting, partnering, and volunteering. Stay updated on XP Gaming's platforms and join the summit to contribute to shaping the future of the gaming industry.

Upcoming event in the app industry-

The App Growth Summit Berlin, 2024

When: May 16, 2024

Where: Berlin, Germany

The App Growth Summit Berlin 2024 is a premier mobile app conference attracting over 400 experts worldwide, all seeking to optimize their app growth strategies. Held in Berlin, the summit offers attendees a comprehensive program featuring 24+ sessions focused on unveiling the latest app marketing strategies for 2024. With custom-curated sessions and ample networking opportunities, attendees can expect to immerse themselves in a world of app growth and connect with professionals from major brands. Renowned for its authentic networking environment, the summit provides a valuable platform for professionals to enhance their app marketing knowledge and expand their professional network.