![Unlocking Hypercasual Game Success | Mechanics, Monetization, and Investment](https://kaushikbhatti.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1669131086599-850x520.png)
Contents
Hypercasual games are becoming increasingly popular, with many people thinking that the roots of this genre can be traced back to 70s and 80s arcade games. While the genre has seen a resurgence in recent years, there are still many aspects of it that remain unchanged. Simple game mechanics, short game sessions, and easy-to-understand gameplay commonly characterize hypercasual games. They are often free to play and rely on advertising or microtransactions for revenue.
While some may think that hyper-casual games are simple, meaningless fun, they can be quite addicting and provide players with a sense of accomplishment. In addition, hyper-casual games can be a great way to unwind and relax after a long day.
Key Insights:
- Gaming App installs increased by 3.5 times
- HC Games Market reached roughly $ 2.7 B
- Approx. 10x more apps and 2x more video ads than other game genres
- 100 M+ new games
Let’s dig deep down a bit into hyper-casual game trending mechanics, how they could be monetized, what timeframe to expect, and what investment is required to get crafted one.
Hyper Casual Games Mechanics
Tap/Timing Mechanic
Games that require players to tap the screen at the right time are great for improving reaction times and accuracy. By timing your taps perfectly, you can get the best results in the game.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.time.trigger | https://apps.apple.com/us/app/johnny-trigger/id1491328118
Stack Mechanic
Similar to the Timing mechanics, the Stack Mechanic is based on tap timing and accuracy. Usually, the player builds a column with the piece that goes from the sides on the top of the column and they cut it every time they stack not perfectly, so the next time the stacking place is smaller. The player should tap right in time so the piece stops right on the peace under it.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ketchapp.stack | https://apps.apple.com/us/app/stack/id1080487957
Puzzle Mechanic
Said mechanic requires logical thinking and planning, it might be a complex mechanic to craft. Puzzle rules can be pretty strict and at the same time, designers should think about replayability and the player’s level progress.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.game.foldpuzzle | https://apps.apple.com/us/app/art-puzzle-jigsaw-games/id1519174001
Growth Mechanic
This mechanic requires the player to direct the character’s object movement and eat objects in the level to grow larger. This mechanic’s allure is revealed in multiplayer. As there are a lot of players on the same level, the bigger ones kill smaller characters in order to grow even bigger and become the true king of the hill.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.supersolid.snake | https://apps.apple.com/bf/app/snake-rivals-io-snakes-games/id1440185894
Object Fall/Rise Mechanic
In this mechanic, the player focuses on object protection while it falls or rises. The player must avoid dangerous obstacles and various level barriers that usually hit the object instantly, so the gamer must protect it for as long as possible to achieve the best results.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hiroba.helix | https://apps.apple.com/us/app/helix-stack-jump-fun-3d-games/id1502584711
The game creation focus should be on eye-catching graphics, relevant animations, and scenario/action-based sound implementation as when we have such mechanics to follow these implementations help engage users in the game.
Monetization
Several monetization approaches have been formed previously. However, ads have been in the first place.
Ads Display & Removal
There are several types of ads are formed – interactive ads are the most popular ones right now. With a single payment, a player can instantly turn off all advertisements. This option is more advantageous for game enthusiasts. However, it is also a good option for publishers who receive an instant check while players enjoy more enjoyable gaming.
Reward Video
This means that after watching video ads, a player may receive a bonus probably a free in-app item or extra life to continue a game session. It is entirely voluntary for the player and is viewed favorably by the player.
Forced Video
This format requires players to watch video advertisements after every few game sessions. Typically, these are short videos that have no negative impact on the player.
In-App Purchases
Providing new content to users and allowing them to purchase it directly may be a good option. Many hyper-casual games, for example, offer a variety of character characters/weapons/skins/accessories that can be obtained at random. However, there is also the option to purchase them for real money with a single tap.
Banners
The banner ads appear at the top or bottom of the screen. The banners should not interfere with the user experience and should only appear in certain situations: after the player completes the level, only on the main menu, and so on.
Timeframe and Investment
Several factors define the investment of such a creation. The main factors are;
- The Complexity of Art Design and Game Mechanics
- Location of Development Team / an Individual plus their charges
- Monetization Plan
However, your main focus should be on quality at competitive prices, what are the deliverables, and the technology stack.
Creation of such a game would take around 2-3 weeks for delivery and starts from $ 4500.
It is critical to strike the right balance between player enjoyment and business revenue. A proper approach and monetization format combination are now more than just a critical decision for a popular hyper-casual game.
Make sure to plan ahead of time if you’re already counting potential profits from your own hyper-casual game. IT experts recommend researching the market and developing a game prototype before launching the final product for better testing and polishing. Simply to ensure its continued success!
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A Strategic Business Consultant, assisting with #Games #ProductDesign #MobileApps #UXStrategy #OnlinePresence #Gamification