Adjust’s new Gaming Report is out, good one!

Adjust’s new gaming report is out.

As usual it’s a good one, I decided to go through and give you all my highlights:

1. Mobile is still King, Retention is the battle we all need to fight.
• Mobile accounts for 49% of total gaming revenue, compared to both console (28%) and PC (23%).
• 1.9 billion players are expected by 2027, showing continued growth.
• Retention remains a challenge, with sessions down 0.6% YoY, despite a 4% increase in installs.

2. AI Is Reshaping the Mobile Gaming Playbook
• AI-driven procedural content generation is revolutionizing game development, making experiences more dynamic and personalized.
• AI-powered player retention strategies predict churn and deliver customized incentives to keep users engaged.
• AI-driven real-time pricing & ad optimization are improving monetization while enhancing the player experience.

3. Cross-Platform Play Is a Must, Not a Luxury
• Cross-play drives higher retention, increased engagement, and stronger monetization.
• Games like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile prove that seamless transitions between mobile, console, and PC enhance player LTV and brand recognition.

4. Monetization: Hybrid Is King
• The industry is now focusing more than ever on multiple monetisation strategies, IAP, ads, battle passes, digital ownership and subscriptions are all crucial.
• High-value players see exclusive offers, while AI dynamically adjusts in-game pricing to maximize revenue.
• RPGs lead in revenue growth, with ARPMAU from IAP rising from $5.36 to $6.48.

5. New Acquisition Channels Are Driving Growth
• CTV & streaming ads are booming, with a 13.8% expected growth in 2025.
• Influencer-led discovery on TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Discord is a major organic growth driver.
• Alternative app stores & direct-to-consumer models are gaining traction as developers seek to maximize margins.
• Loyalty and rewarded apps are booming and will continue to go from strength to strength this year.

Trust me when I say success in 2025 won’t come from playing it safe.

The studios that embrace AI, refine monetization, and build deeper player connections will thrive. Hyper-personalized experiences, social-first engagement, and a strategic approach to new markets (MENA especially) will separate the winners from the rest of the pack.