The world of gaming is a multi-billion dollar industry, and with the rise of mobile gaming, it’s never been easier for developers to create and sell games to a massive audience. But what sets a viral game apart from a mediocre one? How can you create a game that not only resonates with players but also spreads like wildfire across social media and online platforms? In this post, we’ll dive into the secrets of creating and selling a viral game that goes mainstream.
Understanding the Viral Game Formula
The viral game formula is not rocket science, but it does require a deep understanding of what makes a game tick. At its core, a viral game is one that has a unique combination of elements that make it appealing, addictive, and shareable. These elements can be broken down into three key categories:
1. Innovation: A viral game needs to offer something new and exciting that sets it apart from other games in the market. This can be a unique gameplay mechanic, a fresh genre, or an innovative use of technology.
2. Engagement: A viral game needs to be engaging, meaning it needs to hold players’ attention and draw them back in for more. This can be achieved through addictive gameplay, social features, or rewards that encourage players to share the game with others.
3. Shareability: A viral game needs to be shareable, meaning it needs to encourage players to share the game with their friends and followers on social media. This can be achieved through social features, leaderboards, or rewards that incentivize sharing.
Designing a Viral Game
So, how do you design a game that ticks all these boxes? Here are some strategies to get you started:
1. Conduct Market Research: Understand what types of games are currently popular and what players are looking for in a game. Use tools like online surveys, focus groups, and social media listening to gather insights.
2. Create a Unique Concept: Develop a unique game concept that combines innovation, engagement, and shareability. Use tools like game jams, ideation workshops, and brainstorming sessions to generate ideas.
3. Focus on Mobile: Mobile gaming is the fastest-growing segment of the gaming industry, and for good reason. Mobile games are easy to play, accessible, and can be played anywhere, anytime.
4. Use Social Media to Promote: Social media is a powerful tool for promoting a game and encouraging players to share it with others. Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to build a community around your game and share engaging content.
Optimizing for Virality
Once you’ve designed a game that ticks all the boxes, it’s time to optimize it for virality. Here are some strategies to get you started:
1. Use Influencer Marketing: Partner with social media influencers, gaming personalities, and content creators to promote your game to their followers.
2. Run Contests and Giveaways: Run contests, giveaways, and other promotions that incentivize players to share the game with others.
3. Use Viral Loop Mechanics: Incorporate viral loop mechanics into your game, such as rewards for sharing, leaderboards, and social features that encourage players to share the game with others.
4. Monitor and Adapt: Use analytics tools to track player behavior and adjust your game accordingly. Monitor what works and what doesn’t, and make adjustments to optimize for virality.
Selling a Viral Game
Once you’ve created and optimized a viral game, it’s time to sell it. Here are some strategies to get you started:
1. Use Direct-to-Consumer Sales: Sell your game directly to consumers through your own website or app store.
2. Partner with Publishers: Partner with game publishers to distribute your game to a wider audience.
3. Use Advertising: Use advertising platforms like Google AdWords, Facebook Ads, and Apple Search Ads to promote your game to a targeted audience.
4. Build a Community: Build a community around your game by engaging with players, responding to feedback, and providing regular updates.
Conclusion
Creating and selling a viral game is a challenging but rewarding process. By understanding the viral game formula, designing a game that ticks all the boxes, optimizing for virality, and selling your game effectively, you can increase your chances of success in the competitive world of gaming. Remember, the key to creating a viral game is to focus on innovation, engagement, and shareability, and to use social media, influencer marketing, and analytics to promote and optimize your game.
About the Author
[Your Name] is a gaming journalist and expert in game development and marketing. With over 10 years of experience in the gaming industry, [Your Name] has written for numerous gaming publications and has helped numerous game developers and publishers succeed in the market.
