Whether gaming on your console or PC, the second you press “start”, you lock into a community of 3.09 billion active gamers around the globe.

The gaming industry has erupted in recent years, overtaking the music and film industry combined. Citing figures from Dentsu, Marketing Beat reports that the gaming sector is worth $184 billion.

Entering the market as a rookie can present some daunting challenges. But chances are if you’re reading this, you’re ready to take the next step in scaling your business.

Below, we’ll explain how to grow your video game startup so you can join the $184 billion industry and earn a share of that sweet apple pie.

#1. Scale Infrastructure

The only way for a business to grow is to incorporate sustainable systems.

What does this look like in your situation? Forbes says ensuring your methodologies are flexible and scalable can prevent future costly debt.

The gaming industry is synonymous with scaling at a rapid rate. Once a game goes viral, software developers move quickly to thwart crashes and lags.

To avoid a worst-case scenario, scalable tools like cloud services and content delivery networks (CDNs) should be adopted to handle the surge in demand.

#2. Prioritize User Retention

If you build it, they will come. Unfortunately, that’s not how business works. First, develop your product, market it, gain customers and work extra hard to retain your loyal user base.

The science behind user retention is more than hooking them in; it’s about keeping them engaged. This starts with their purchasing journey.

Implementing one solution to rule and eliminate the headaches of global payments and payments taxes and regulations is half the battle won. Invest in eCommerce solutions that optimize recurring revenue effortlessly and accept payments.

PayPro Global advises partnering with one platform that can help expand your global reach and optimize monetization strategies.

#3. Content Optimization

Starloop Studios describes gaming optimization as ensuring a game runs smoothly on different systems. No matter the platform you play on, it helps keep the gameplay and visuals stable.

The game development company says studios make the mistake of launching titles with poor graphics and performance optimization. Unfortunately, the game is unplayable for many players who bought it.

Avoiding this issue is crucial during development, especially when porting games to mobile, Android, and consoles. Porting requires careful optimization to ensure smooth performance on the new platform.

The finished product should be a well-optimized game that provides a clear and enjoyable visual experience in any graphics setting.

#4. Monetize via Multiple Revenue Streams

In-game and in-app purchases are a few of the fastest ways to monetize your game. Find effective ways to boost engagement and revenue by enabling seamless in-game purchases without disrupting gameplay.

Investigate utilizing multiple online channels like YouTube, Twitch and TikTok. According to GameTree, Facebook Gaming and Discord are the premium platforms many gamers flock to.

While some tech startups use subscription management, the advertising model has also proven beneficial for gaming startups.

You earn revenue by displaying ads in or around your game based on impressions or clicks. However, this model is ideal for high-traffic, widely appealing, casual games.

Leveraging microtransactions alongside upfront sales can increase revenue streams.

The premium features comprise small in-game payments for virtual items.

#5. Learn from the Best and the Past

Riot Games is the perfect example of how a small indie game studio focused on a single title to become one of the largest gaming companies.

According to Digiday, since making bank with “League of Legends,” the company had visions of scaling into an entertainment giant. Using intellectual property as a launchpad, Riot intended to dominate the industry.

The pandemic scuppered those plans and the company scaled back to concentrate on game publishing. Despite making millions of dollars, Riot is a cautionary tale of scaling too quickly.

Global partner Epic Games is the success story all gaming startups should aspire to. The company’s GTM (go-to-market) strategy encompassed giving away 99% of their gaming content for free.

Like its competitors, Epic developed viral games but capitalized on the popularity of PUBG by creating a “Fortnite” version called “Battle Royale”.

The Rundown

Scaling your business requires that all the puzzle pieces fit neatly together.

Understand the current state of the market and your customers’ needs. Identify your strengths and view your weaknesses as opportunities for growth.

Monitor player feedback and industry trends for improvement and new game development. Use these valuable insights to prioritize resources, and development efforts, and form strategic partnerships.

Find cost-saving ways to scale infrastructure. Concentrate on user retention. Gaming optimization is key to developing a solid product. Monetize multiple revenue streams. Take your cue from the best in the industry.

Good luck with the next stage of your business venture. Exciting times lay ahead!