Advertising formats for different types of games: How to choose the right one for your game?
Choosing the right ad type for your game can have a significant impact on its successful monetization. The ideal option depends on many factors that should be considered when choosing an ad type. In this article, we’ll look at how to choose the right format for your game depending on your monetization model and other factors.
1. Define your monetization model:
The first step is to determine how you will monetize your game. There are two main types of monetization:
- Hybrid: In this case, you earn revenue from both advertising and in-app purchases.
- Ad monetization: In this case, you only earn revenue from advertising.
2. Choose a format for the hybrid model:
Hybrid monetization strategy
If your game employs a hybrid monetization strategy, combining both ads and in-app purchases, it’s crucial to select formats that minimally disrupt user experience. The key here is to integrate ads that blend seamlessly with the gameplay, encouraging continued engagement and spending.
- Rewarded video ads — these are videos that users can choose to watch in exchange for in-game rewards, such as extra lives or currency. What benefits will you get? Players receive valuable rewards, while you earn ad revenue without significantly disrupting gameplay. The best moment for using is when players might need a boost or an extra chance, such as after failing a level or before a challenging section.
- In-App Native Ads — ads that are integrated into the game’s interface in a way that feels natural and non-intrusive. This type of ad keep users within the game environment, often showcasing brand promotions that do not divert attention away from the game. For best using these format can be subtly placed in menus, loading screens, or even as part of the game world itself.
3. Choose a format for the ad-based model:
Long sessions, few levels
- Banner Ads — small, static or animated ads usually placed at the top or bottom of the screen. What benefits will you get? These type of ads are non-intrusive and can consistently generate revenue over long play sessions. Perfect using for games with extended gameplay periods, where constant visibility can lead to higher impressions and clicks.
- Interstitial ads — full-screen ads that appear at natural transition points within the game. They capture the user’s full attention for a short period, leading to higher engagement rates. Place them at milestones within levels to create micro-pauses that do not disrupt the flow too much. For example, between game levels or after significant achievements.
Short sessions or levels
- Interstitial ads — given the short session lengths, frequent interstitials can be used more liberally without overly impacting user retention. Despite their interruptive nature, they are effective in quickly generating revenue.
- Rewarded video ads — encourage users to watch these for hints, bonuses, or other in-game benefits. This can enhance user engagement and provide additional revenue streams.
- Combination of formats — use banner ads for continuous exposure and interstitials or rewarded videos at critical junctures to balance user experience and monetization.
Conclusion
Selecting the right ad format is a complex process that should consider your game’s structure and your monetization goals. For hybrid models, rewarded video and native ads offer minimal disruption and high engagement. For ad-driven models, a mix of banner, interstitial, and rewarded video ads can maximize revenue while maintaining a balance with user experience. By analyzing user metrics and adapting your strategy, you can find the optimal ad formats to support your game’s financial success.
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