#GamingBusiness

What are the main differences between VCs and angel investors: - Angels invest their own money, VCs invest other people's money (LPs)- Angels can decide instantly, VCs need internal discussions and often weeks of due diligence- Angels can invest in whatever interests them, VCs must follow their fund's thesis- Angels typically write smaller checks ($25k-250k), VCs often need to deploy big checks per deal- VCs need companies to be huge ($1B+) to return their fund, angels can win with smaller exits- Angels often invest based on gut feel and relationships, VCs need data and proof points- VCs have pressure to deploy capital within 3-4 years, angels can invest at their own pace- Angels are usually happy with 3-5x returns, VCs need 10x+ to make their model work- Angels have often been founders themselves, VCs might have a big team and […]

Investors asking founders to have longer vesting and cliffs (like 5-year vesting with 2-year cliff) is often seen as hostile by founders. Here's why this misconception happens:Founders don't realize how the VC path works: in early-stage startups, there's always another round where new investors will scrutinize the company. The vesting is designed to safeguard the company and its cap table.Think about it: Would you feel comfortable if a founder could leave the company in a year or two and take 20% of the company with them?What does a new investor think about that 20%? Most likely that this company has 20% of its cap table not contributing to its success.

When I was a first-time founder, here's the VC jargon I kept hearing but didn't understand: - "We have X hundred million under management" - This means how much money their fund has to invest and has invested. Sometimes it was a billion dollars.- "We want you to find a lead" - Translation: they won't invest first, they want another VC to set the terms.- "We want founders to vest their shares." - Means you earn your ownership over time to ensure you stick around.- "What's your burn rate?" - They're asking how much cash you spend monthly.- "We need to see more traction" - Usually means "your progress or metrics aren't good enough."- "Let's keep in touch" - The polite way of saying no.- "What's your cap table look like?" - Who owns what percentage of your company.- "Give […]

As user behaviors shift and technology evolves, 2025 is a make-or-break year for advertisers navigating this dynamic landscape. 2025 isn’t just a year of change—it’s a year to redefine the rules of mobile advertising. From the dominance of AppLovin to the rise of alternative app stores, the landscape is evolving rapidly. This article explores the key trends shaping the future of mobile advertising, highlighting opportunities and challenges for advertisers, developers, and brands. 1. How AppLovin’s diversification is shaping the Ad landscape AppLovin’s position as a leader in the mobile advertising space has never been stronger. Known for its advanced AI-driven ad optimisation and massive inventory, the network has been the backbone for many gaming companies for years. However, 2025 brings a notable shift as e-commerce brands enter the auctions, driving up competition. E-commerce advertisers, traditionally focused on Google and Meta, […]

Why is mobile gaming so hard right for startups?- Incumbents have massive network effects and consumer data to acquire and retain users- Incumbents can afford 500 people working on a game- Incumbents can take their time (5+ years) to make the new game So where are the opportunities?- Avoid categories where incumbents dominate (puzzle, midcore, social casino)- Build for a niche and then expand (think about all the Habby games)- Innovate on distribution, try to get off the ground without paid UA

Understanding these 6 major studio size differencesin game development, helps making better games. Indie vs AA vs AAAAll have their ownAdvantages, andDisadvantages.Key is to usethem wisely.Fun* = Fun has many meanings for many different players.