Summary
Merge Islanders is a great example of how effective monetization strategies can turn an underperforming game into success. The game generated a remarkable 163% gain in ad revenue and 254% growth in IAP in a short period by implementing clever ad placements, increasing rewarded advertisements, and improving in-app purchases. This case study explores the actions taken and how they contributed to the outstanding outcome.
Background
Since its creation in the spring of 2020, Vandrouka Games has focused on developing casual games with the purpose of providing interesting and rewarding mobile games.
The developer has been focusing on creating casual games that engage players with solid gameplay, gorgeous design, and good content. However, they lacked monetization performance for Merge Islanders, causing an otherwise good game to underperform.
Challenge & Goal
Developing an engaging and well-designed game is only the start of a successful mobile gaming journey. Even the best game can struggle to make money if it lacks a strong monetization plan. Merge Islanders was a promising game with good gameplay and an active user base, but it struggled with monetization.
We thought the game had hidden potential and that with the correct changes, it might experience significant revenue growth. Our team focused on establishing an effective monetization strategy that would maximize ad revenue and in-app purchases (IAP) while maintaining a consistent user experience.
Solution
To reveal untapped potential of the game, we made the improvements below:
Advertising Adjustments
Optimized Rewarded (RV) Placements: We carefully adjusted the timing and positioning of ads to enhance user engagement without disrupting gameplay.
Introduced Additional Rewarded Ads: We expanded the rewarded ad inventory, allowing players to earn meaningful in-game benefits while increasing ad revenue.
Increased Order Amounts
Expanded Game Content: More content leads to higher retention and increased playtime. We ensured Merge Islanders had enough engaging content to keep players invested.
Enhanced User Flow: By integrating engaging mechanics and ensuring a smooth progression system, we created an immersive gaming experience that encouraged longer play sessions and higher in-app spending.
Gameplay Adjustments
A/B Testing for Optimal Balance: We tested different gameplay tweaks to identify the best balance between engagement and monetization.
Reward Adjustments: We fine-tuned the in-game reward system to ensure that players remained motivated to progress while optimizing revenue generation.
Results
With these strategic changes in place, Merge Islanders experienced an impressive 163% increase in ad revenue and a 254% increase in in-app purchases in a remarkably short period of time.
Give Your Game a Fair Chance
The success of Merge Islanders shows that underperforming games can become major hits with the right monetization strategy. At Ciao Games, we don’t give up on games prematurely—we work hard to optimize and push them to their full potential.
If your game has great potential but isn’t reaching its revenue goals, let’s talk. Ciao Games specializes in transforming struggling games into profitable success stories. Contact us today to see what we can do for you!
Play Merge Islanders on Google Play Store
Play Merge Islanders on App Store