There is a multitude of reasons why some people will not be able to create addicting game apps. One reason is that they lack the necessary skills or experience. This can be remedied by learning more about the different aspects of app development and practicing making games with tools like Unity.
Another possibility for those who might not have the skill set needed is to find someone else who does, such as an outsourcing company or consultant. Finally, another reason why people may not be able to make addictive apps could be because it’s too difficult for them. In this case, it might be a good idea to find an easier mobile game app development company toolset or engine.
No matter what the reason is though, following some simple tips can help increase the chances of creating an addictive game app. This article will outline 10 such tips.
1. Make your game about something people like
Be it zombies, pretty girls, or the next best mobile device, make sure you come up with an idea that fits in with what’s popular right now. In doing so you’ll be able to tap into a market filled with people who would already search for similar types of apps/games. Plus, if they enjoy playing whatever type of app is hot at the moment, there is a good chance they will gladly check out yours too!
Keep the gameplay simple one of the easiest ways to make sure that your game is addictive is to keep the gameplay simple. This means avoiding complex controls and keeping the objectives clear and concise. When players have to spend too much time learning how to play your game, they are less likely to stick around for long. Furthermore, if they can’t understand what it is they’re supposed to be doing, they’re not going to be motivated to continue playing.
2. Don’t give your players a reason to uninstall
Avoid any mechanics that will annoy gamers and give them a reason to delete the app from their phone or tablet. Some things that annoy players are time limits, being forced to wait until energy recharges before continuing to play, and ads that require a player to wait before they can continue.
3. Get rid of the boring stuff
Give players lots of different things to do in your app so it doesn’t become boring after playing for a while. Things like quests, mini-games within the main game, and other types of non-gameplay elements (sound effects, animations) will make your app more exciting and enjoyable.
4. Make sure you’re on the right platform
Choose the right platform for your type of game/app; if you want to go with Android be sure you’re developing for an android device and not an iPhone or vice versa. It’s also good practice to develop two versions: one for phones & tablets and another for larger tablet devices.
5. Test your app before you launch it!
Before publishing your app always test the waters by releasing a beta version to a small group of people. This can help you identify any major issues that may arise from gamers, and will give them the opportunity to provide feedback on new features they’d like to see. Doing so can save you tons of time fixing bugs after your game is released, as well as save players headaches caused by new bugs. Plus, if there are enough requests you’ll even have inspiration for future updates!
6. Keep adding more content over time
You should try to continue adding content beyond the initial release of an app or game, if not at least definitely update it with bug fixes, new features, or cosmetic changes. This can help to keep players around for longer so they continue playing your game even after the first wave of downloads is over.
7. Advertise! But don’t go overboard
Advertising is key to an app’s success but doesn’t be too pushy. If you bombard gamers with ads then they’ll get annoyed and uninstall the app, not to mention that it could end up costing you more money in the long run compared to if you had only advertised when necessary.
8. Don’t forget about social media
Social media outlets like Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Imgur, Tumblr, etc. can be great tools for sharing information about anything – apps included! Whether it’s an inside look at new features, a contest, or just a sneak peek into what you’re up to it can be a great way to connect with your players and have them spread the word for you.
9. Consider going free-to-play
Most apps/games generate revenue from microtransactions, so if you want your app to make a profit consider making it free. Many popular games today are free and offer in-game purchases where players can spend real money on things like coins, new equipment, etc. If done right this could help boost downloads as well as increase revenue from those who would not have downloaded the app otherwise because of its price tag.
10. Don’t give up! Keep working on it!
And lastly whatever you do, don’t give up! If your app isn’t doing so well early on try to look at it from a different perspective and find ways you can improve. Maybe there’s a minor bug causing major problems, maybe the price is too high, or perhaps the concept just doesn’t quite fit what players want at this time. Whatever the reason may be keep working on it because eventually, you’ll get that big hit that everyone will enjoy!
Conclusion
Creating addicting game apps is a process that takes time and consideration. The 10 steps we’ve outlined in this article should give you an idea of how to get started on your journey, but remember that there are always more tips out there! For example, if the app marketplaces (iTunes or Google Play) don’t work for you then consider Steam as an alternative; furthermore, be sure to keep up with new developments like AR/VR gaming which could yield promising results down the road.
