Our conversation dives into the evolving landscape of game marketing, particularly focusing on the 4X genre and the dynamics between successful game studios like First Fun and River Game. The discussion highlights the importance of user acquisition strategies, server management, and the integration of gameplay with marketing efforts. We also explore the future of 4X games, the impact of themes and reskins, and the innovative use of AI ingame mechanics. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of 4X game design, exploring its economic foundations, innovative mechanics, and the role of AI in shaping user acquisition strategies. We discuss the sustainability of the 4X model, future trends in user acquisition, and the evolution of game genres, culminating in predictions for the 4X market's trajectory.

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This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let’s not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously.

Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Matej Lancaric⁠, Joseph Kim, Justin Yau

Youtube:https://youtu.be/t28sVVnYWKw

Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipg

Chapters

00:00 The Evolution of Game Marketing Strategies

02:54 Understanding First Fun and River Game Dynamics

06:02 The 4X Game Landscape: Trends and Innovations

09:07 The Role of User Acquisition in Game Success

11:52 Server Management and Player Dynamics in 4X Games

15:09 Integrating Gameplay and User Acquisition

17:58 The Future of 4X Games: Multiple Core Strategies

20:59 The Impact of Themes and Reskins in Game Development

24:06 The Rise of AI in Game Mechanics

33:51 The Economics of Game Design

36:24 Innovations in Game Mechanics

39:12 Creative Strategies in User Acquisition

42:58 The Role of AI in Game Development

48:30 Future Trends in User Acquisition

54:01 Predictions for the 4X Market

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Matej Lancaric

User Acquisition & Creatives Consultant

⁠https://lancaric.me

Jakub Remiar

Game design consultant

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar

Joseph Kim

CEO, Lila Games

https://lilagames.com/ & GameMakers

Justin Yau

https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinhbyau/

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Takeaways

First Fun & River Game share a complex relationship.

The 4X genre is evolving with new strategies and themes.

Server management is key to maintaining player engagement.

The future of 4X games may involve multiple core strategies.

AI is transforming user acquisition strategies in gaming.

The 4X model's sustainability is under scrutiny due to high CPIs.

Future trends in user acquisition will lean heavily on AI.

The integration of AI in game development is becoming essential.

4X games are setting the standard for creative strategies.

The evolution of game genres will incorporate 4X elements.

Understanding 4X is vital for anyone in the gaming industry.

Predictions suggest a shift towards more innovative gameplay in 4X games.

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