Engaging with audiences in mobile gaming has become an increasingly attractive strategy for brands due to the massive and diverse player base. In a recent report from Newzoo, the Global Gamer Study found that many non-gaming brands are increasingly recognizing the potential for advertising and partnerships within mobile gaming. Mobile games continue to evolve into comprehensive platforms and ecosystems, providing fertile ground for seamlessly integrating marketing and advertising content, and brands are taking note.
Here are some ways brands can effectively engage with audiences in the mobile gaming space:
- In-Game Advertising: Incorporating ads within mobile games is one of the most direct ways to engage with players. This can include video ads, banner ads, interstitial ads, and even product placements within the game environment. These ads should be designed to seamlessly fit into the gaming experience, providing value to players rather than disrupting their gameplay.
- Sponsorship and Collaborations: Brands can collaborate with game developers to create sponsored in-game events, characters, or content. For example, a fast-food chain might sponsor a time-limited race within a racing game. This not only increases brand visibility but also enhances the gaming experience for players.
- Incentivized Advertising: Rewarding players for engaging with ads is a powerful way to capture their attention. Players can be offered in-game currency, power-ups, or other virtual items in exchange for watching ads. This approach benefits both players and brands, as players get something valuable in return, and brands have a better chance of making a lasting impression.
- Branded Mini-Games: Some brands have created their own mini-games or apps related to their products or services. These mini-games - or AAA Game Ads - are often designed to be entertaining and shareable, serving as an indirect but engaging way to promote the brand.
Did you know: Younger generations exhibit a positive response to branded content within games. More than half of Gen Alpha players report discovering new brands during their gaming experiences and express a higher inclination to make purchases from brands featured within games.
- In-App Purchases and Virtual Goods: Some brands sell virtual goods within mobile games. For example, a clothing brand might sell virtual outfits or accessories for in-game characters. This approach combines gaming and shopping, offering a unique and interactive purchasing experience.
- Live Events and Tournaments: Hosting live events or tournaments within games can be an effective way to engage with the gaming community. These events can feature exclusive in-game rewards, real-world prizes, or the chance to interact with influencers or developers.
- Localized and Personalized Content: Tailoring content to specific regions or individual player preferences can greatly enhance engagement. Brands can offer content in different languages, celebrate local events or holidays, and provide personalized offers or discounts.
Did you know: Kidoz is truly a global company - we have campaigns running all over the world as well as having staff in over 14 different time zones! This global advantage means successful regional or local campaigns - meeting your brands’ specific needs for specific markets.
- Measuring and Analyzing Data: To refine their strategies, brands should continuously monitor the performance of their campaigns within mobile games. Data analysis can help optimize ad placements, targeting (Kidoz only uses Contextual Targeting to ensure we maintain our high safety and compliance standards), and content to ensure maximum engagement.
By embracing these approaches and considering the unique characteristics of the mobile gaming audience, brands can effectively engage with mobile gamers from all over the world, ultimately building brand awareness, loyalty, and driving conversions. Furthermore, it's important for brands to maintain authenticity and relevance to the gaming community to establish a positive and lasting presence in the gaming world. With over a decade of experience, Kidoz massive reach enables brands to build connections with their consumers, safely across top apps all over the world.
Level up your digital marketing and reach out to us today.
Stacey McDowall
