Many people believe that mobile games developers are less intensive compared to typical indie or AAA developers. This misconception is supported by claims that those who play mobile games are casual players who may not play console or computer games. These players will find RPG, FPS, or MMO too complicated for them. Additionally, the misconception continues that the base for mobile games is mostly females who are over 35 years with almost half of fans being over 45 years and older.
It instead signifies that they assess their clientele base and use creativity to come up with a product that will meet the needs of each group. Each audience has distinct needs that call for different ways of doing things, but it does not make it any way less intricate.
Similarly to AAA and Indie developers, mobile game developers have the option of selling from their official websites instead, which in this case will be e-commerce friendly, has a landing page, and with a store front. If the developer chooses this path, he will have eliminated the intermediaries. In this case, that would be iTunes App Store/Google Play. Traditional developers, on the other hand, they can sell the same way and avoid using GOG or Steam. When this is the case, all revenue belongs to the developer and hence better business.
However, to get better business, you must be willing to combine it with the right marketing, campaigns, and community involvement. These following tips should get you started.
• Creating an Official Website
Selling your games online requires having a well-designed website that is easy to navigate, features SEO integration, and has a payment processor. Before you get such a website, app company London recommends that you start with owning a domain name. Then look for a simple domain name that is searchable and clearly reflects the type of games or studio you run.
Let us say your studio is Amco Games. In this case, a domain in the line of amcogames.com fits perfectly if it is available. You can use this name for a while before you think of changing it. After you get a name, consider including a landing page that talks exclusively about your latest game releases. Within the page, ensure you include all the information you would in a press kit such as the game overview, screenshots of the game, trailers, and details about the platform.
SEO is essential in ensuring that your content and website as a whole is searchable. In case you are using WordPress, the Yoast plugin is the best as it is clear, easy to use, and cautions you in case your content does not meet SEO requirements.
To improve the experience of your viewers, consider including headers in your content. Also, ensure that you include keywords in addition to alternative descriptions of any images you might have. If possible, include a blog as websites with blogs rank higher due to Google algorithms. Also, do not forget to include a call-to-action at the top center of the landing page requesting your visitors what you would like them to do. The phrase ‘Buy Now’ can be effective if inserted as a button where the customer can simply click and buy the game.
• Make Use of Social Platforms
Campaigns tactics for your games can vary ranging from launching parties to unveiling websites. Whichever way you use, it will be successful if you manage to inform your clients in advance. You can publicize the game on your blog, website, and other social platforms. These marketing strategies and their success depend on how well you connect with the community.
It might seem overwhelming but it is easy to manage if you do it is a series of routines. A good routine to follow is writing a blog post about it every morning the month following the launch. Ensure you share every post on social media and if possible, link it to Steam and Discord forums. This makes four outlets every morning throughout the month.
Additionally, you can record development progress when you are doing something creative or simply goofing around. This works well if you can think of animation or something visually appealing which usually does well on social media. You can also consider posting the video on your YouTube account studio, which is an excellent way to put a name and face behind the game hence making you more approachable by players. Ensure you always respond to comments and at whatever cost, maintain things professional. Avoid responding in a way that may damage the brand name or image.
