With the ever-growing popularity of mobile gaming, many game developers are looking for ways to monetize their games. One effective way to do this is by implementing a subscription model in the form of a game pass. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about making a successful game pass on mobile in 2023.
What is a Game Pass?
Before we dive into the specifics of creating a game pass on mobile, it’s important to understand what a game pass is. A game pass is a recurring subscription model that allows players to access exclusive content, such as new levels or characters, in a game for a fixed monthly fee.
Benefits of Game Passes on Mobile
One of the main benefits of game passes on mobile is that they provide a predictable stream of revenue for game developers. This can help them plan and invest in new content, features, and improvements for their games. Additionally, game passes offer a way to reward loyal players with exclusive content that is not available to casual players or those who only play occasionally.
How to Create a Game Pass on Mobile: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Determine Your Game Pass Offering
The first step in creating a successful game pass on mobile is to determine the content or features that will be included in the subscription. This could include exclusive levels, characters, or items that are not available to non-subscribers.
Step 2: Set Your Subscription Price
Once you’ve determined what will be included in your game pass, it’s time to set the price. This is where research and analysis come into play. You should consider factors such as the competition, the perceived value of your content, and the overall cost of running your game to determine a fair price for your subscription.
Step 3: Create a Subscription Model
Once you’ve determined the content and price for your game pass, it’s time to create a subscription model that works for your game. This could include a monthly or yearly subscription, as well as different tiers with varying levels of access and perks.
Step 4: Implement and Promote Your Game Pass
With your game pass offering, subscription price, and subscription model in place, it’s time to implement and promote your game pass on mobile. This could include adding a button or link to subscribe within the game, creating promotional materials such as ads or social media posts, and reaching out to influencers or media outlets to help spread the word about your game pass.
Case Studies: Successful Game Pass Implementations
Fortnite
Fortnite is one of the most popular mobile games in the world and has been incredibly successful with its subscription-based model. In addition to regular updates and new content, Fortnite offers a Battle Pass system that allows players to earn exclusive rewards by completing challenges and playing the game.
Marvel Contest of Champions
Marvel Contest of Champions is another mobile game that has been successful with its subscription-based model. In addition to regular updates and new content, the game offers a variety of exclusive characters and items that can only be unlocked through in-game purchases or the purchase of a monthly subscription.
Best Practices for Implementing a Game Pass on Mobile
Offer Exclusive Content
One of the key reasons why game passes work is because they offer exclusive content to subscribers. This could include new levels, characters, or items that are not available to non-subscribers.
Communicate Value Clearly
It’s important to clearly communicate the value of your game pass to potential subscribers. This could include highlighting exclusive content or features, as well as any other benefits that come with subscribing to your game.
Provide Flexibility in Subscription Options
Not all players will be willing or able to commit to a monthly subscription. That’s why it’s important to provide flexibility in your subscription options. This could include offering different tiers with varying levels of access and perks, as well as allowing players to purchase subscriptions on a month-to-month basis.
Continuously Iterate and Improve Your Game Pass Offering
Finally, it’s important to continuously iterate and improve your game pass offering over time. By gathering feedback from players and regularly analyzing data, you can identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to your game pass to better meet the needs of your players.
FAQs
What is the average revenue per user (ARPU) for game passes?
The ARPU for game passes can vary widely depending on the content and price point of the subscription. However, research suggests that the average ARPU for game passes on mobile is around $5 per month.
How do I handle players who don’t want to subscribe?
It’s important to provide flexibility in your subscription options so that players who don’t want to commit to a monthly subscription can still access your content. This could include offering different tiers with varying levels of access and perks, as well as allowing players to purchase subscriptions on a month-to-month basis.
How do I communicate the value of my game pass to potential subscribers?
To clearly communicate the value of your game pass, you should highlight any exclusive content or features that come with subscribing to your game, as well as any other benefits that may be unique to your game pass offering. You should also provide transparent pricing and clear information about what players can expect when they subscribe.