Mastering Retention

This episode is a deep dive into the user experience (UX) strategies that make Royal Match not just a game, but a phenomenon in the mobile gaming world.

In this episode Tom Hammond and Neil Edwards dive into the intricacies of mobile game retention and monetization, using the popular game 'Royal Match' as a case study. They explore the psychological aspects of game design, focusing on how 'Royal Match' enhances player engagement and spending through clever level design, emotional connections, and strategic use of in-game events and challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding player behavior and leveraging game mechanics to create a compelling and addictive gaming experience.

In this episode of the Mastering Retention podcast, host Tom Hammond welcomes Thiago Leite, a seasoned professional from InnoGames, known for their work on Forge of Empires. Thiago shares his journey from mechanical engineering to game design, offering unique insights into the world of LiveOps. The discussion delves into the nuances of player segmentation, the intricacies of designing engaging live operations, and the art of balancing player experiences in games like Forge of Empires and Elvenar. Thiago's expertise shines as he explains how to cater to diverse player profiles, from different age groups to varied gaming preferences, ensuring a captivating and personalized gaming experience. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of game development, particularly in the realm of LiveOps and player engagement.

Tom Hammond from UserWise hosts a discussion with Anton Gorodesky and Dmitriy Byshonkov, from MyGames. They chat about the challenges and nuances of starting a game studio, raising funds, and navigating the gaming industry. * Tom emphasizes the challenges aspiring entrepreneurs face in starting their own game studio, such as raising money and choosing the right game genre or platform. * Anton and Dmitriy share their experiences in the gaming industry. Anton, the head of industry relations at MyGames, talks about his roles and the co-founding of Invest Game. Dmitriy, on the other hand, shares his journey from being a journalist to a game designer and then to business development at MyGames. * The discussion touches upon the current state of the gaming market, noting a decline in investments compared to the boom in 2020 and 2021. They attribute this to market correction and the challenges of making hit games. * Tom brings up the topic of choosing the right platform for game development, considering the various options available like mobile, PC, console, and user-generated content platforms. The importance of understanding the nuances of each platform and the team's expertise is emphasized. * When discussing the ideal co-founding team for a game studio, the need for a tech person, a marketing person, a product person, and an administrative person is highlighted.

The world of game design is a complex landscape, filled with challenges and opportunities. One of the key aspects that often gets overlooked is the importance of user experience and monetization strategies. In this episode, Tom and Neil dive into these crucial elements and offer actionable insights to elevate your game development process.