Get Your Iterative Game Development Right

The most important part in games production, on a quest to build a successful game, is getting iterative development right — yet, most don't get it right or don't even know how to approach it right.This article focuses on the ‘core’ of iterative development, with an intention to (potentially) help to set some of you better on track for creating, and shipping, better performing games — from both the players’ point of view (PoV) as well as from the commercial PoV.Note: This article excludes process coverage, for now, which I might tackle in later articles about games production and topics related to iterative development. Further exclusions are mentioned in the article itself, as the case applies. Furthermore, understanding this article requires some level of understanding (theoretical and/or practical) of game development processes for direct applications. If there is no such […]

Antti Kananen January 9

Journal

Intrinsic Monetization: Alternative Path to Lasting Engagement

This article discusses Intrinsic Monetization as a framework for F2P monetization strategy.On top of that, the article offers detailed examples of how you could innovate with intrinsic directions, in unique ways, in your designs as well as what can in best way complement your systems — which I’m hoping will spark some innovative ideas for everyone regarding their future game prospects.Intrinsic MonetizationAs the gaming industry evolves, intrinsic monetization is a framework everyone should know and study more — for building sustainable success.Unlike extrinsic models that rely on e.g., rewards-based systems most or external pressures like time-limited offers or competitive paywalls, intrinsic monetization aligns with players' internal motivations, fostering genuine engagement and connection.What is Intrinsic Monetization?Intrinsic monetization integrates monetization into the core of the gameplay experience in ways that feel natural and fulfilling to players.The key focus of it is here: […]

Antti Kananen January 8

Journal

The Future of Web Games: Beyond What We Know Today

When looked critically, for the past 10–20 years, web gaming has not evolved much and it's been on repeat, with little innovation beyond what we saw a decade or more ago, even it’s currently growing again steadily.This article focuses on a discussion and trend and prediction setting about the future of Web Games.The Future of Web GamingThe future of web gaming doesn’t just lie in improving what already exists and it isn't on instant games, current portals, etc. — I believe it’s in reinventing how we think about gameplay, meta game, social experiences / systems, and cross-platform potential.The next unicorn and even decacorn companies in gaming will come from those who think beyond current models and explore new territories, such as:🔹 User Experience Innovation: Creating fluid, immersive experiences that feel fresh and intuitive. Imagine e.g., how different types of UI […]

Antti Kananen January 7

Journal

Mobile Games Benchmarking

How do you usually approach (early stage) mobile games benchmarking? This article discusses about benchmarking and introduces couple methods (/’schools’) over it.The article is partly related to (/complements it) also my previous article about importance of Business Modeling (https://gamesalchemy.substack.com/p/6-why-business-modeling-your-f2p):How To Approach Benchmarking?There seems to be on high level few ‘schools’ to look into:One goes deep in understanding KPIs from macro tools such as Sensor Tower, data ai, AppMagic and other sources of data (ad networks, MMPs, industry reports, industry peers, etc.), and using them in combination for benchmarking.‘Schools’ that with current commercial sentiment aim, e.g., for hybrid casual games to have 40-50% (or even more) D1 and < $1 CPIs (US) for starting point — to invest further (kinda overlooks benchmarking, but counts in a target profiling of top 5-100 games in certain categories).‘Schools’ that start with scientific approach where […]

Antti Kananen January 6

Journal

‘Unorthodox’ Product and Positioning Strategies

Let's talk about 'unorthodox' Product & Positioning strategies no-one is currently looking into! This article focuses on covering and discussing 'unorthodox' Product and Positioning Strategies that are beyond current commercial sentiment in F2P Mobile Games Welcome to the ‘Unorthodox’ Side of Things! However, despite this, there are lots of opportunities out there no-one is currently looking into; OR they work on them in total secrecy! Shh-h! We’re exploring the shadowy place here. What I mean by ‘unorthodox’ here is everything that is basically beyond the current commercial sentiment and state / phase of the mobile games industry. Here are few examples of 'unorthodox' Product & Positioning strategies that are 'forbidden': Genres and sub-genres no-one is looking to invest in. As publishers, VCs and investors tend to avoid certain midcore, hardcore, and other markets with certain characteristics, there's less money flowing […]

Antti Kananen January 6

Journal

How Boom Beach Could Be Set Back to Growth?

This article focuses on analyzing Boom Beach’s current state and suggests couple theoretical ideas for how it could be set back to growth. Note: This article is constructive, giving a straight-forward analysis on a game’s current state — with also suggestions and ideas for future improvement. The sole intention is to provide here an insightful article and as a goodwill-basis give open ideas and principles for improvement. This article has data from AppMagic. Current State of Boom Beach When looked over the long haul, Boom Beach by Supercell has seen long-term engagement decline (despite bringing great amount of revenue and success — which is still something everyone needs to acknowledge) over its lifecycle; a common “trend” for many mobile games as their player bases gradually lose interest after peak growth. Side Note: These things are common “trends” in games such […]

Antti Kananen January 5

Journal

Physiology and Psychology: How They Explain F2P Game Metrics

When we talk about metrics like session times, retention rates, and monetization in F2P mobile games, we’re not just talking numbers. These metrics reveal how player habits, behaviors, and decision-making are rooted in human physiology and psychology.This article focuses on discussing about physiology and psychology behind F2P metrics / KPIs, and how they can be used to break down KPIs you’re seeing behind your game — and, furthermore, how physiology and psychology can be used for game design.Note: Some of the points discussed here can be more theoretical still, as they’ve not been used to far extend, yet, in game development and design.Physiology and Psychology Behind Mobile F2P Games and Their MetricsHere's a deeper look at how we tap into the principles of physiology and psychology to build successful games:Engagement Loops and Habits FormationGratification systems, feedback loops, and well-designed hooks […]

Antti Kananen January 4

Journal

How Stumble Guys Could Be Set Back to Growth?

This article focuses on analyzing Stumble Guys’ current state and suggests couple theoretical ideas for how it could be set back to growth. Note: This article is constructive, giving a straight-forward analysis on a game’s current state — with also suggestions and ideas for future improvement. The sole intention is to provide here an insightful article and as a goodwill give open ideas and principles for improvement. This article has data from AppMagic. Stumble Guys Faces Downhill Slide in Engagement According to AppMagic, Stumble Guys, a hit from Scopely (originally developed and released by Kitka Games who sold Stumble Guys for Scopely), is seeing decline in downloads and engagement. Stumble Guys, Revenue Stumble Guys, Downloads This trend, while common in games after top peaks, highlights a critical point: Without re-freshening of gameplay and strategic updates, it's challenging to maintain DAU […]

Antti Kananen January 4

Journal

Mobile Gaming Cycles: Commercialization & Industry in Motion

The mobile gaming industry is a dynamic ecosystem, constantly evolving through cycles of innovation, commercialization, and reinvention. Each cycle introduces new opportunities and challenges — shaping how games are developed, marketed, and sustained. From genre-mixing to shifts in user acquisition strategies, these cycles fuel the industry’s growth and creativity — and sentiment. This article focuses on discussing about current state of Mobile Games market, what has driven it where it is, and what (potentially) lies ahead. How We Ended Up Where We Are: The Post-IDFA Reset The introduction of Apple’s App Tracking Transparency (ATT) framework sent shockwaves through the industry — disrupting traditional methods of user acquisition and monetization. Over the years, most (commercially adaptable) studios have adapted to what is required for survival; focusing on e.g., onboarding and first-time user experiences (FTUE) with marketability in mind — whilst overall […]

Antti Kananen January 3

Journal

Mobile MMOs / MMORPGs: Innovation Opportunities in 2025

The mobile MMO / MMORPG genre remains an interesting frontier, offering opportunities for creative disruption.This article discusses in about mobile MMO / MMORPG market(s) and gives trends and predictions for it for 2025 and beyond.Note: This article has data from AppMagic; MMORPG segment (some games from APRG could be classified as MMOs, and revenue doesn't count D2C in).Current State of MMO / MMORPGGlobal Revenue and DownloadsMobile MMOs, Top 100 Global Revenue (Source: AppMagic).Mobile MMOs, Top 100 Global Downloads (Source: AppMagic).Global downloads have been able to be sustained in similar manner, while in-store global revenue has been declining a bit — which most likely is due to D2C / Webshops (more below about D2C / Webshops) taking chunk of revenue. Big chunk of revenue comes from Asian markets and games.Overall the market has been led by the games that have been […]

Antti Kananen January 2

Journal

What’s Next for Match-3 Puzzle RPGs?

The Match-3 Puzzle RPG genre has been a stalwart of mobile gaming, blending engaging puzzle mechanics with RPG depth. This article focuses on discussing this segment’s current state and predicting future trends and directions. Note: This article includes data from AppMagic, Match-3 Puzzle RPG segment. Current State of Match-3 Puzzle RPGs Titles like Empires & Puzzles by Small Giant Games and Zynga, as well as Puzzle & Dragons, have set high benchmarks according to AppMagic. Empires & Puzzles, for instance, still rakes in approx. $10M per month via IAPs — bolstered further, most likely, by its webshop presence. These games exemplify longevity and profitability in this segment. Empires & Puzzles, Revenue (Source: AppMagic). While the classics thrive, the market has not really seen new launches. The last significant entry I recall was Call of Antia, which launched with promise, leveraging […]

Antti Kananen January 2

Journal

The Next Frontier in 4X: Pure Hybrid Casual 4X Games

The 4X Strategy Games genre, known for its complexity and depth, has long dominated the hardcore space, even after post-IDFA — but, how? Mostly, and very recently, thanks to hybrid casual elements slipping into 4X onboarding, first time user experience (FTUE), and UA strategies. This article focuses on discussing about current and upcoming trends for 4X Strategy Games, with emphasis on Hybrid Casual elements slipping into the genre. Note: This article has data from AppMagic; 4X Strategy segment. Growth Trend for 4X Strategy Games As mobile games continue to evolve due to e.g., post-IDFA effects, hybrid casual elements have been slipping into the 4X ecosystem — specifically to onboarding, FTUE, UA, and driving users to learn the 4X gameplay and systems around it through mini-game takes. Thanks to this the segment has been actually growing lately, instead of churning out […]

Antti Kananen January 1

Antti Kananen

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