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Global Gaming Report Q2 2024

The report demonstrates that the global gaming industry remains in a phase of robust growth, with M&A activity accelerating to 52 announced deals and $3.5 billion in disclosed value during Q2 2024, the third consecutive quarter of expansion after a dip in late 2023. Private‑financing activity has stabilized at 181 deals, with blockchain gaming dominating both deal count (40 %) and value share (45 %). Early‑stage rounds account for 94 % of funding, highlighted by Zentry’s $140 million blockchain raise. Major players such as Tencent, Take‑Two and private‑equity firms are expected to continue driving acquisitions, while AI, mixed reality, platform tools and adjacent mobile‑app segments attract the most investment. Venture capital has surged across the sector, with seed and Series A/B rounds totaling over $1.5 billion. Metaverse‑focused studios like The Sandbox and OpenREC received notable investments, alongside a strong focus on IP creation and streaming platforms. On the buyer side, Tencent, NetEase and Sea Limited collectively spent more than $1.5 billion on deals that reinforce their dominance in mobile and cloud gaming markets. Indie and AA titles have rebounded sharply, with Devolver Digital, Team 17 and tinyBuild driving gains. Year‑to‑date performance as of July 19 2024 shows top performers such as Logitech (+54.9 %), KRAFTON (+53.7 %) and Take‑2 (+53.4 %) outperforming the S&P 500 (41.9 %). In contrast, larger publishers like Tencent (+10.9 %) and EA (+14.0 %) lag behind the index. The Drake Star Gaming Index, an equal‑weighted benchmark of 30 large gaming firms, slipped slightly (-0.3 %) despite the sector’s overall upside, underscoring volatility among mid‑cap titles. Overall, the report covers global activity across all major geographic markets and industry segments from Q2 2024, highlighting a bullish outlook driven by strategic acquisitions, early‑stage venture capital, and strong performance in both indie and large‑publisher segments.

market-analysis mergers-acquisitions investment+1

Drake StarJan 2024

Report

Digital Market Index: Q1 2024

Global consumer spending on mobile applications reached a record $45 billion in the first quarter of 2024, reflecting a 9.5% year‑over‑year increase that was largely driven by the iOS ecosystem, which grew 11.5% versus a 5.3% rise on Google Play. Despite this surge in spend, total app downloads fell 3.5%, marking the third consecutive quarterly decline since Q1 2021; nevertheless, iOS maintained its highest quarterly download volume since 2020. Entertainment and productivity categories led the spend growth, each expanding over 30% YoY, while gaming spending rebounded on iOS but remained flat on Google Play. Hyper‑casual games continued to dominate the download landscape, with racing and action titles generating the largest volumes. Conversely, casual sub‑genres such as arcade and simulation experienced double‑digit declines. TikTok remained the top spender globally, generating more than $1.2 billion in revenue and outpacing YouTube by a wide margin, while emerging short‑form drama apps—ReelShort, DramaBox, and ShortMax—entered the top ten for both revenue and download growth. In mobile gaming, “Monopoly GO” set a new quarterly spend record of $770 million, surpassing the previous $765 million benchmark and standing alone as a title to exceed $600 million in a single quarter. Retail‑media advertising in the United States was led by Walmart and Target, which together delivered over 18 billion impressions in Q1 2024. Specialized retailers such as Chewy and Home Depot captured significant niche shares, with personal care emerging as the top category overall—driven by Ulta and Sephora. Walmart dominated food, beverages, and consumer packaged goods, while Target excelled in shopping, household supplies, and baby & toddler segments. Co‑branded partnerships—including Chewy × Purina, Walmart × Unilever, and Target × Apple—generated hundreds of millions of impressions, underscoring the strategic value of retailer‑brand collaborations in expanding digital ad reach.

market-analysis global mobile+1

Sensor TowerJan 2024

Report

Mobile Gaming Benchmarks for Q1 2024

The benchmark study presents a comprehensive snapshot of mobile gaming performance during Q1 2024, focusing on key engagement metrics—retention, session length, and session count—across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Data derive from over 10 000 games tracked by GameAnalytics, with each title typically released in at least three regions, yielding a combined monthly active user base of approximately 1.67 billion. Retention figures reveal that the global median day‑1 retention stands at 22.91 %, day‑7 at 4.20 %, and day‑28 at 0.85 %. Classic games (board, card, casino, trivia, word) dominate retention performance, especially in the Middle East where they lead all regions. Casual and mid‑core titles lag behind, with puzzle games maintaining stable but lower retention across all markets. Session length analysis shows a global median of 4.45 minutes, with casino and card games achieving the longest sessions in North America (≈20 min) and Europe (card games exceeding 25 min). In the Middle East, casino titles surpass 15 minutes, while Asia’s top casino games reach nearly 23 minutes. Session count averages range from 3–5 daily sessions per game, with puzzle and word games in the Middle East achieving the highest counts (≈10 sessions/day). Methodologically, metrics are reported in quantiles—top 25 %, median, and bottom 25 %—to illustrate performance across the spectrum of developers. The report underscores that high retention, longer session lengths, and frequent session counts correlate with stronger player engagement, offering actionable insights for studios aiming to benchmark against industry leaders.

retention live-ops mobile+1

GameAnalyticsJan 2024

Report

Global Games Market Report

The global games market is entering a period of stabilization and renewed growth, with 2023 revenues projected to reach $184.0 billion. This recovery follows a post-pandemic correction and is supported by a massive player base of 3.31 billion people worldwide. While the industry faces macroeconomic pressures and shifting privacy regulations, long-term forecasts remain positive, with total revenues expected to climb to $205.4 billion by 2026. This trajectory is fueled by the maturation of the current console generation, the expansion of the middle class in emerging markets, and the increasing influence of transmedia strategies that drive engagement across multiple entertainment formats. Market dynamics are shifting significantly across different platforms and regions. Mobile gaming remains the largest revenue segment at $89.7 billion, yet it is currently experiencing a 1.4% decline as privacy policies complicate user acquisition and monetization, particularly within the RPG genre. In contrast, the PC and console segments are the primary growth engines for 2023, benefiting from a steady supply of hardware and a robust slate of high-profile releases. Geographically, the Asia-Pacific region maintains its dominance, accounting for 46% of global revenue, even as regulatory hurdles in China slow its immediate growth. Meanwhile, significant capital infusions, such as Saudi Arabia’s $38 billion investment through Savvy Games Group, are reshaping the competitive landscape. Technological and structural transformations are further defining the industry's future. Generative AI is emerging as a pivotal tool for managing the rising costs of AAA development, though its adoption is tempered by concerns over copyright and workforce impact. Revenue models have transitioned almost entirely to digital formats, with physical sales becoming negligible in the PC market and live-service models dominating console engagement. As the industry evolves, the rise of cloud gaming and handheld "complementary devices" like the Steam Deck are expanding how and where players interact with content, ensuring the market remains resilient despite shifting regulatory and economic conditions.

market-analysis monetization player-demographics+1

NewzooJan 2024

Report

Global MSP Report

The Global MSP Report presents a comprehensive analysis of the managed services provider (MSP) market, focusing on transaction activity, valuation trends, and strategic consolidation across the United States and Europe. The report documents a sharp increase in private‑placement activity during Q4 2024, with deal value rising from $34 million in Q3 to $2.2 billion, driven largely by platform deals and a 83% share of total activity involving strategic buyers acquiring multiple MSPs. Strategic consolidation remains robust, with six of the top ten players each adding at least four MSPs between 2023 and 2024, while financial investors continue to focus on single‑company investments. Market valuation data indicate that the global MSP sector reached $305 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% to $571 billion by 2033, reflecting escalating IT complexity and demand for cost‑efficient services. Deal concentration is highest in IT services (88% of Q4 2024 activity), with software, networking, and communications sectors contributing smaller shares. The report lists 58 announced M&A deals in Q4 2024, with a total of 500 transactions completed since 2013 by the reporting firm. Key outcomes highlighted include rapid deployment of new technology, cost efficiency gains, and enhanced service capabilities. The analysis draws on Pitchbook and Drake Star data, covering 2023‑2024 transactions across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, and provides detailed transaction tables for individual deals, including revenue, deal size, and acquirer information.

market-analysis mergers-acquisitions investment+1

Drake StarJan 2024

Report

Toxicity and the Bottom Line: The Impact of Hate and Harassment on Player Retention and In-Game Purchases

Toxicity and harassment in online gaming environments significantly impact player retention and monetization, creating a direct financial incentive for studios to prioritize trust and safety. Research based on a representative survey of 2,408 active gamers across various age groups, genders, and ethnicities indicates that three out of four players consider safety from hate and harassment a high priority. Despite this, approximately 10% of players report feeling actively unsafe, with this figure rising to 23% among bisexual players and 18% among Asian players, highlighting the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. The data establishes a clear link between toxic behavior and lost revenue. Approximately 19% of players report spending less money in gaming communities to avoid harassment, while 21% have reduced their overall playtime. Engagement is further eroded by defensive player behaviors: 31% of participants have abandoned matches already in progress, 27% have left lobbies before a match began, and 44% have disabled voice chat entirely to mitigate exposure to abuse. These actions not only decrease individual player lifetime value but also degrade the experience for the broader player base. Demographic analysis reveals that younger players, particularly those aged 18 to 24, are the most sensitive to these issues. This cohort is the most likely to feel unsafe and the most prone to disengaging or reducing spending in response to toxicity. Because these players represent a core demographic with long-term growth potential, their tendency to "vote with their wallets" suggests that safer gaming environments are fundamentally more profitable. The findings conclude that traditional moderation is currently insufficient, necessitating more robust community guidelines and integrated safety tools to protect both players and the industry's bottom line.

monetization player-behavior diversity-inclusion+2

Take ThisJan 2024

Report

The Xsolla Report: State of Play – Summer Edition 2024

The Summer Edition of the Xsolla Report demonstrates that indie game development has entered a phase of rapid democratization and commercial viability. Accessible engines such as Unity, Unreal, and the fast‑growing Godot now dominate production pipelines, enabling more than 8 000 titles to launch in 2023. Coupled with free or low‑cost asset stores and cloud backend services, indie studios can cut development time and costs dramatically, accelerating time‑to‑market and allowing them to compete with larger studios. Sales data confirm the shift: indie titles generated over $15 million in lifetime revenue on Steam alone, and now account for 31 % of total Steam earnings. Action, adventure, and RPG genres remain the most lucrative, while indie games enjoy higher average Steam ratings (≈72 %) than AAA titles. The market share of indie games on PC and console platforms rose from 13 % in 2021 to 18 % in the United States, underscoring a growing consumer appetite for independent titles. Influencer marketing has become the primary driver of discovery and purchase decisions, with YouTube still commanding the highest impact but TikTok and Instagram offering more cost‑effective alternatives. The sector’s marketing spend is projected to triple, reaching $24 billion by 2024. Meanwhile, the convergence of education and gaming—through MOOCs, online academies, and immersive technologies—has expanded the talent pipeline, raising average developer salaries from $60 k in 2010 to $95 k in 2024. Geographically, the report focuses on North America and Europe, with a particular emphasis on U.S. market dynamics, while the time frame spans 2021–2024. The findings highlight that strategic adaptability, influencer partnerships, and cloud‑based commerce tools are essential for publishers, developers, and investors to capture the expanding indie market.

market-forecast player-behavior global+1

XsollaJan 2024

Report

Games Market Trends to Watch in 2024

The global games market in 2024 is characterized by a period of stabilization and strategic restructuring following the post-pandemic correction. While the industry saw a revenue decline in 2022, recovery began in 2023 and is expected to continue through 2024, driven largely by the expanding install base of current-generation consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Despite this growth, the year is defined as a lean period for many companies as they navigate high interest rates, reduced investment capital, and a highly competitive landscape where a small number of titles dominate the majority of player engagement. Key findings indicate a significant shift in business models and platform strategies. While live-service games remain the primary revenue drivers, the market is experiencing oversaturation, leading many developers to return to premium, finite gaming experiences. Growth in multi-game subscription services is expected to slow as they face competition from free-to-play social platforms like Fortnite and Roblox. Additionally, mobile developers are increasingly diversifying by bringing their titles to PC to combat rising user acquisition costs and stricter privacy regulations. Major hardware and distribution shifts are also anticipated, including the launch of a new Nintendo console and the introduction of an Xbox mobile store on Android. The scope of this analysis covers global market trends across PC, console, and mobile segments, with revenue forecasting extending through 2026. The methodology combines internal market data and analyst perspectives with a survey of gaming executives and industry experts from companies such as Ubisoft, Iron Galaxy Studios, and Savvy Games Group. Emerging technologies like generative AI are identified as tools for increasing production efficiency, though they are not expected to transform game development at scale within the immediate calendar year. Overall, the industry is moving toward risk-reduction strategies, focusing on established intellectual properties and cross-platform accessibility to maintain stability.

market-analysis market-forecast player-demographics+1

NewzooJan 2024

Report

The State of Gaming 2024: An Analysis of the Current Mobile Gaming Market Trends

The global mobile gaming market underwent a significant correction in 2023, characterized by a 10% decline in worldwide downloads and a 2% drop in total revenue. This downturn was primarily fueled by escalating user acquisition costs and a post-pandemic stabilization of consumer habits. While the broader market contracted, a distinct shift toward casualization occurred, evidenced by an 8% increase in Casual game revenue and a 30% surge in the Hybridcasual segment. Conversely, Mid-core titles faced a 9% revenue decline, signaling a transition in player preferences toward more accessible experiences. Geographic performance diverged sharply as publishers pivoted toward emerging markets to mitigate rising costs in established territories. While the Asian market saw a 6% revenue contraction, the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America experienced revenue growth of 8%, 7%, and 4% respectively, despite falling download numbers. This regional resilience was often driven by high-profile intellectual properties, such as the success of Monopoly GO! in Europe and the expansion of Netflix’s gaming portfolio, which saw a 194% increase in downloads through the integration of major franchises like Grand Theft Auto. Strategic adaptations in 2023 focused on maximizing player lifetime value through Live Ops events and transmedia collaborations. Mobile gaming now commands 67% of global digital advertising spend, with marketing strategies increasingly segmented by platform; YouTube and TikTok serve as primary hubs for core gamers, while Facebook and Pinterest remain vital for reaching casual female audiences. To combat the challenges of the current landscape, the industry has embraced low-cost user-generated content and external subscription models, leveraging recognizable IP to bridge the gap between gaming and broader entertainment media.

market-analysis mobile global+1

Sensor TowerJan 2024

Report

Rise of the Co-Op Games

Cooperative video games have emerged as a dominant force on the Steam platform, significantly overperforming relative to their total volume of releases. While only six percent of games launched in 2023 featured co-op mechanics, these titles accounted for thirty-six percent of all units sold. This trend has accelerated sharply in 2024, driven by massive breakout hits like Palworld and Helldivers 2. Market data indicates that Palworld alone represented nearly half of the forty million co-op units sold in the first half of 2024, illustrating a high concentration of success among top-tier titles. The commercial advantage of cooperative play extends across the entire industry spectrum, from major publishers to small independent studios. A typical co-op game sells approximately 40,000 units on Steam, compared to just 5,000 units for non-cooperative titles. Even the bottom quartile of co-op games performs twice as well as their single-player counterparts. For larger publishers, the segment offers substantial scale, evidenced by over one hundred co-op titles surpassing five million lifetime unit sales. This consistent outperformance suggests that social mechanics provide a higher floor and a significantly higher ceiling for commercial viability. The success of the genre is rooted in organic marketing and player psychology. Cooperative design naturally encourages word-of-mouth promotion, as players actively recruit friends to join their sessions. These games are characterized by high replayability and "memorable" moments that translate well to social media and live-streaming platforms. By creating shareable and streamable content, co-op games generate natural hype cycles that reduce the reliance on traditional advertising. Following a brief normalization period after the initial pandemic-driven surge, the current market trajectory confirms that social, team-based dynamics remain a primary driver of player engagement and revenue growth in the PC gaming sector.

market-analysis steam co-op+1

Video Game InsightsJan 2024

Report

Annual Universe of Positive Gaming Experiences 2024

Stillfront Group’s 2024 fiscal year marks a pivotal transition into a synergy-driven operational phase, characterized by a major geographic reorganization into Europe, North America, and MENA & APAC business areas. This strategic shift aims to drive efficiency and mitigate a 2% organic revenue decline, which resulted in total net revenues of 6,737 MSEK. The financial year was defined by a significant net loss of 7,378 MSEK, primarily driven by a 6.9 billion SEK goodwill impairment in the North American segment due to lower-than-expected growth. Despite these non-cash charges, the group maintained a resilient financial foundation, generating over 1 billion SEK in free cash flow and improving gross margins to 80% through successful direct-to-consumer initiatives. The group’s portfolio remains focused on free-to-play franchises, with North America and Europe accounting for 71% of player bookings. To reduce dependency on third-party platforms, which still facilitate 54% of revenue, management is prioritizing its internal payment systems and the "Stillops" platform for cost optimization. A comprehensive cost-savings program is underway, targeting up to 250 MSEK in annual savings by late 2025. Leadership has also stabilized under a new CEO and a board that remains fully compliant with the Swedish Code of Corporate Governance, focusing on organic growth and franchise scaling over dividend distributions. Sustainability and governance have been deeply integrated into the corporate strategy in preparation for the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. The group achieved Science Based Targets initiative validation, reducing market-based greenhouse gas emissions by 7% and more than doubling its renewable energy share to 37%. While social metrics show a stable workforce with improved turnover rates and high data security standards, challenges remain in gender diversity at the executive level. Executive remuneration is now tied to long-term sustainability targets, including employee satisfaction and data privacy, ensuring that environmental and social governance remains central to the group’s long-term value creation.

market-analysis player-behavior global+1

StillfrontJan 2024

Report

Midcore Gaming Apps Report 2023

The midcore mobile gaming market is undergoing a significant expansion as players increasingly migrate from hyper-casual titles toward games offering greater depth and complexity. Currently accounting for 35% of total US iOS gaming revenue, the midcore segment is defined by its high player retention and diverse monetization strategies. While these games face higher user acquisition costs than casual titles—averaging a $2 cost-per-install (CPI)—they leverage sophisticated LiveOps and multi-layered Battle Pass systems to drive long-term profitability. Strategy and RPG genres lead the market, while emerging trends like extraction shooters and season-based gameplay loops further solidify the segment's dominance. Data from 2022 to 2023 highlights stark contrasts in performance across platforms and regions. Android remains the more cost-effective platform for developers, offering a $0.73 CPI compared to $3.86 on iOS, while also delivering nearly double the Day-7 return on ad spend (ROAS) at 6.1%. Geographically, North America represents the most expensive market with a $5.45 CPI, yet it maintains a strong 4.5% ROAS. Conversely, the EMEA region provides the best overall value, balancing a low $0.80 CPI with a competitive 4.4% ROAS. Genre-specific analysis shows that Shooters require the highest acquisition investment at $7.47 but yield the highest early returns, whereas RPGs offer the lowest entry cost at $0.60. To maximize revenue and bypass traditional platform fees, midcore developers are increasingly adopting external web stores and aggressive LiveOps schedules, often running an average of 15 simultaneous active events. This shift toward complex, service-based ecosystems is supported by specialized growth acceleration platforms that provide the infrastructure for large-scale app marketing and monetization. By utilizing programmatic exchanges and targeted advertising solutions, developers can navigate the high-cost landscape of midcore gaming to secure a dedicated and high-value audience.

market-analysis global mobile+1

LiftoffJan 2024

Report

Mobile App Trends: 2024 Edition

Mobile advertising expenditure grew by 8 % in 2023, reaching $362 billion, and is projected to hit $567 billion by 2030. App revenue is expected to surpass half a trillion dollars in 2024, driven largely by AI‑powered personalization that enhances user retention and return on investment across gaming, e‑commerce, fintech, and other verticals. Opt‑in rates for App Tracking Transparency rose 7 percentage points in fintech and e‑commerce, while connected TV emerges as a key channel within diversified, data‑centric marketing strategies. Fintech applications experienced a 42 % year‑over‑year increase in installs and a 24 % rise in sessions during 2023. Asia-Pacific led install growth at 48 %, whereas EMEA recorded the largest session gains at 31 %. Global average session length climbed from 6.1 to 6.4 minutes, yet day‑30 retention fell from 9 % to 7 %. The high paid‑organic ratio of 0.79 underscores the continued importance of organic acquisition, especially amid a 12 % install decline in North America. Gaming installs and sessions declined overall, but sub‑verticals such as racing (61 % install growth) and simulation (53 %) surged. Arcade and adventure titles saw the largest session increases, while average session length remained steady at 32 minutes. Day‑1 retention dipped slightly from 29 % to 28.3 %, yet hyper‑casual games improved their day‑1 rate from 26 % to 27 %. Rising cost per install drove the overall decline, yet high‑LTV sub‑verticals like RPG and adventure still present strong monetization prospects, reinforcing the need for AI‑driven personalization to sustain long‑term engagement. E‑commerce apps recorded modest retention declines from 2022 to 2023, with day‑1 rates falling from 19 % to 17.3 % and day‑90 dropping from 5 % to 4.2 %. Nevertheless, stickiness improved, particularly in marketplace and classifieds categories where median retention rose from 15 % to 16.1 %. Global cost per install decreased slightly (median €1.37 to €1.33), while 30‑day lifetime value increased, reaching $10.35 for iOS and $5.85 for Android users. Europe led day‑1 retention at 17.5 %, and LATAM achieved the highest organic‑to‑paid install ratio (0.84). However, global reattribution rates fell from 0.46 to 0.25, indicating a strategic shift toward focusing on returning users rather than new acquisition.

market-analysis marketing global+1

NewzooJan 2024

Report

Games Market Trends 2024

This analysis examines the 2024 global games market, forecasting a period of recovery and strategic restructuring following the post-pandemic market correction. The primary thesis suggests that while the industry is returning to growth, it faces a "lean year" characterized by cautious investment, workforce reductions, and a pivot away from the oversaturated live-service model toward premium, finite gaming experiences. Key findings indicate that the market began recovering in 2023 and is projected to maintain a positive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of +1.3% through 2026. Despite this growth, the report highlights a significant shift in business strategies. Developers are increasingly favoring established Intellectual Property (IP) and sequels to mitigate risk. Furthermore, the "gold rush" for live-service titles is cooling as 19 games currently command 60% of total playtime, leading companies to return to premium releases. Other major trends include the slowing growth of multi-game subscriptions, the expansion of mobile developers into the PC space to combat rising user acquisition costs, and the anticipated launch of next-generation Nintendo hardware. The scope of this research is global, covering mobile, PC, and console segments with revenue and engagement forecasting extending from 2021 through 2026. The methodology combines internal data analysis from the Newzoo platform with a qualitative survey of gaming executives and experts from organizations such as Ubisoft, Savvy Games Group, and Iron Galaxy Studios. Technological and platform shifts also define the 2024 outlook. Generative AI is expected to improve production efficiencies and NPC depth, though it is not predicted to impact game production at scale within the current year. Additionally, the report anticipates increased platform fluidity, specifically noting Microsoft’s intent to launch an Xbox mobile store on Android to challenge existing app store duopolies.

market-analysis market-forecast monetization+1

NewzooJan 2024

Report

Liftoff Report: Mobile Ad Creative Index 2024

The report presents a comprehensive analysis of mobile ad creative performance across four key app verticals—gaming, e‑commerce, finance, and entertainment—for the period January 1 2023 to January 1 2024. Using 602 billion impressions, 49.4 billion clicks, and 144 million installs, the study benchmarks cost‑per‑install (CPI), install‑to‑action (ITA) rates, and day‑7 return on ad spend (ROAS) by ad format (banner, native, interstitial, playable, video). Gaming ads that include video or playable elements achieve over 20‑fold higher install likelihood than banner ads, while native remains the most cost‑effective format at $1.80 CPI on average. In e‑commerce, native and banner ads drive the highest ITA rates (>30 %) and lowest CPAs ($2.57–$3.23), whereas video ads incur higher costs, especially on iOS. Finance apps see the lowest overall CPI ($1.84–$5.93) but exhibit a pronounced platform split, with iOS costs exceeding $5 for most formats; native and video ads outperform others in ITI conversion (up to 16×). Entertainment apps benefit from banner and native formats, with CPI ranging $2.79–$6.00, while video and interstitial ads are markedly more expensive on iOS. Methodologically, the report aggregates data from Liftoff’s Creative Studio and GameRefinery teams, supplemented by a survey of over 500 app marketers. It highlights emerging creative trends: generative AI for rapid asset creation, optimized user‑generated content (UGC) with interactive elements, minigames and leaderboards for gaming acquisition, and longer immersive ad formats (45‑second videos and triple‑page ads) that drive higher engagement. The findings underscore the importance of platform‑specific optimization, format selection based on vertical and performance goals, and leveraging AI tools to scale creative production while maintaining authenticity.

in-game-advertising advertising marketing+2

LiftoffJan 2024

Report

Mobile App Trends: 2024 Edition

The 2024 Mobile App Trends analysis demonstrates a continued upward trajectory for the global mobile advertising market, with 2023 ad spend reaching $362 billion and an 8 % year‑over‑year increase that is projected to climb to $567 billion by 2030. Fintech, gaming, and e‑commerce applications emerge as the primary growth drivers: fintech installs surged 42 % YoY while in‑app revenue doubled, gaming installs grew 7 %, and e‑commerce saw modest retention declines yet higher lifetime values. Fintech profitability hinges on customer acquisition cost (CAC). In 2023, global installs rose 42 % and sessions up 24 %, with APAC leading install growth (48 %) and EMEA driving the largest session increase (31 %). North America experienced declines in both metrics. Average session length increased from 6.1 to 6.4 minutes, yet day‑30 retention fell from 9 % to 7 %. Median eCPI dropped across categories, notably banking apps from $2.33 to $1.37, while 30‑day LTV rose steadily, indicating that lower acquisition costs combined with higher lifetime value can sustain strong ROI for fintech user acquisition campaigns. Gaming trends reveal a mixed picture: overall installs and sessions fell in 2023, yet sub‑verticals such as racing (61 % install growth) and simulation (53 %) grew robustly, with arcade and adventure titles showing the largest session increases. Average session length remained flat at 32 minutes, while retention slipped slightly (Day‑1 from 29 % to 28.3 %, Day‑30 from 6.4 % to 5.3 %). Hyper‑casual titles improved retention modestly, and AI‑driven personalization is identified as a key lever for sustaining long‑term engagement. E‑commerce apps experienced modest retention declines from 2022 to 2023 (day‑1 from 19 % to 17.3 %, day‑90 from 5 % to 4.2 %), yet overall stickiness improved, especially within marketplace and classifieds categories (median rising to 16.1 %). Global cost per install fell slightly from $1.37 to $1.33, while 30‑day LTV grew to median values of $10.35 for iOS and $5.85 for Android users, underscoring higher‑value user acquisition. Regionally, Europe led day‑1 retention (17.5 %) and LATAM achieved the highest organic‑to‑paid install ratio (0.84), though reattribution rates fell sharply worldwide, particularly in LATAM (from 0.5 to 0.18). Collectively, these findings highlight the critical importance of AI‑enabled personalization, precise measurement tools, and cost‑efficient acquisition strategies across fintech, gaming, and e‑commerce verticals to capitalize on the expanding mobile advertising landscape through 2030.

market-analysis ai mobile+2

NewzooJan 2024

Financial

Game & Network Services Segment

The Game & Network Services segment demonstrates a robust market position characterized by a PlayStation 5 monthly active user base of 118 million and a significant increase in per-console spending, which currently averages $731. This financial performance is underpinned by a strategic shift toward a digital-first ecosystem and recurring revenue models, evidenced by 35% of PlayStation Plus subscribers migrating to premium tiers. Looking toward the FY24–26 period, the primary objective is to secure sustainable profitability by balancing traditional hardware sales with an expanded peripheral lineup and the integration of AI and hybrid cloud technologies to optimize engineering efficiencies. The operational strategy for PlayStation Studios emphasizes a multi-format expansion of intellectual property across console, PC, and live service platforms. Following a period of aggressive studio acquisitions between FY21 and FY23, the focus has transitioned toward disciplined development frameworks and the management of a diversified portfolio. This portfolio includes high-performing tentpole franchises, such as Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and Helldivers 2, alongside transformational live services and experimental titles. By leveraging broader corporate synergies, the segment aims to maximize the reach of its core IP while utilizing AI-driven tools to streamline production costs and timelines. Future growth remains subject to a complex landscape of macroeconomic and technological risks. Intense market competition and rapid shifts in consumer technology necessitate constant innovation, while financial outcomes are sensitive to foreign exchange volatility, particularly involving the Yen, USD, and Euro. Furthermore, global stability is pressured by geopolitical conflicts and regulatory scrutiny, which may impact supply chains and international operations. Maintaining product quality and cybersecurity remains a critical priority as the segment navigates these external pressures to achieve its long-term financial targets.

market-analysis global console+2

Sony GroupJan 2024

Report

The Xsolla Report: State of Play (2024)

The report establishes that mobile gaming is the fastest‑growing segment of the global games market, with 2024 revenues projected at $98.7 billion and Asia alone contributing $65 billion. Emerging regions—Africa, Latin America, the Middle East—are expanding the player base and creating new monetisation opportunities. A shift toward direct‑to‑consumer web shops, used by 77 % of gamers, is reshaping distribution and allowing developers to bypass the traditional 30 % app‑store fee. The Digital Markets Act further empowers developers with data control and alternative channels, driving a rise in in‑app advertising (70 % of marketers now use it) and subscription models, especially in APAC where Singaporean buyers lead at 88 % adoption. Key findings highlight the importance of designing monetisation rather than merely inserting ads. Laura Teclemariam’s career trajectory illustrates how product teams that focus on “designing for monetisation” can lift games into the top 25 rankings. Her advocacy for apprenticeship and rotational programs addresses industry barriers to entry, promoting diversity and inclusion—critical as women now represent 87 % of mobile gamers. Regional data underscore a global trend: mature markets such as the UK and France see $1.4 billion in 2024 revenue, driven by casual and puzzle titles, while emerging markets like Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa exhibit 25–30 % annual growth with average spend per user between $12 and $20. In all regions, the top 2–6 % of “whale” spenders generate roughly 95 % of in‑app revenue, reinforcing the value of targeted retention strategies. Overall, the analysis demonstrates that mobile gaming’s explosive growth is underpinned by diversified monetisation models, regulatory shifts favoring developer autonomy, and a demographic shift toward female players. These dynamics create a fertile environment for innovative distribution channels, inclusive talent pipelines, and higher lifetime values across both mature and emerging markets.

market-analysis mobile global+1

XsollaJan 2024

Financial

Financial Results for the Q3 of the Fiscal Year Ending March 2025

Koei Tecmo’s financial performance through the third quarter of the fiscal year ending March 2025 reflects a transitional period characterized by a 14.0% year-over-year decline in sales to ¥52,570 million and a 25.8% drop in operating profit. These results stem from a light release schedule for console titles and a reliance on existing mobile software. However, net profit rose 3.6% to ¥25,161 million, supported by disciplined cost management in advertising and outsourcing. The company maintains its full-year guidance of ¥90 billion in sales and ¥30 billion in operating profit, anticipating a significant recovery in the fourth quarter driven by a robust pipeline of more than five new titles, including Dynasty Warriors: Origins. The long-term strategy focuses on achieving a ¥40 billion operating profit target by establishing a multi-layered portfolio across console, PC, and mobile platforms. To secure a position among the top ten global digital entertainment companies, a dedicated AAA Studio has been formed to consistently produce large-scale hits, with two major AAA titles planned for the next three years. This expansion is supported by an aggressive recruitment drive to add 200 employees annually and the continuous refinement of the proprietary Katana Engine to ensure high-quality graphical standards across all genres. Operational efficiency is being bolstered through the integration of artificial intelligence for debugging, asset production, and game balancing. By subdividing development milestones and shifting to a bond-centric investment portfolio, the company maintains high financial stability and consistent non-operating income. These fiscal strengths support a commitment to shareholder returns, including a 50% dividend payout ratio, while funding strategic capital expenditures such as employee housing and potential office acquisitions to sustain future growth.

market-analysis investment global

Koei TecmoJan 2024

Financial

Global Gaming Report 2024

The Global Gaming Report 2024 demonstrates a robust acceleration in the industry’s financial activity, with mergers and acquisitions reaching $27.3 billion across more than 960 transactions—an increase of 39% in disclosed value and a 21% rise in deal volume compared with 2023. The PC/Console segment dominated the market, accounting for 53 deals, followed by Mobile (38) and Platform/Tools (32). Private placements also expanded, raising $4.8 billion in 711 rounds, a 30% rise in value despite a slight drop in count. Key transactions include EQT’s $2.8 billion purchase of Keywords, CVC’s $1.1 billion acquisition of Jagex, and Playtika’s up‑to $1.95 billion takeover of SuperPlay. Mobile acquisitions continue to command high valuations, with deals such as Easybrain’s sale to Tencent’s Plarium for up to $820 million and Scopely’s $1.2 billion purchase of Miniclip. Other notable moves include MTG’s $34.5 million acquisition of Chengfeng Studio, Tencent’s stake increase in Kuro Games to 51.4%, and DoubleU Games’ $27 million purchase of a majority stake in Paxie Games. LoopMe’s acquisition of Chartboost further consolidates ad‑tech within the mobile ecosystem, bringing total transaction value in this segment to over $2 billion. These deals underscore a strategic focus on expanding mobile intellectual property, live‑ops capabilities, and ad‑tech integration. Valuation analysis across Korean, Chinese, and international firms reveals EV/EBITDA multiples averaging 2–3× and EV/Revenue ranging from 10 to 30×. Chinese peers such as 37Games and Kingnet exhibit higher multiples and stronger revenue growth than many Korean titles, indicating a rebound in listed gaming valuations. The data suggest an environment primed for increased M&A activity and potential IPOs as the market moves into 2025, with geographic coverage spanning Asia and global markets and a time frame focused on the year 2024.

mergers-acquisitions market-analysis global

Drake Star PartnersJan 2024