In this episode of Game Changers, Jackson Vaughan explores the rising power of IP licensing in today’s gaming landscape—why it’s becoming essential for discoverability, and how developers are using it to drive growth across mobile, PC, and console.

We unpack the challenges facing studios today, from rising ad costs to shrinking visibility, and spotlight how familiar brands and characters can give games a vital edge. With examples from Monopoly Go! to Scopely’s billion-dollar strategy, we look at how licensed IP is helping developers cut through the noise, reach high-value players, and extend a game’s lifecycle.

Plus, we dive into the growing trend of major IP holders like Disney and LEGO partnering with trusted studios instead of building in-house—and why that’s a smart play in a high-risk market.

In a world of endless content, IP isn’t just a shortcut to attention—it’s a serious business strategy.

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