Everyone knows some of the most iconic characters in gaming history. Icons like Mario, Sonic, Pikachu, Link, Kirby, and others constantly attract players to new gaming experiences. What makes these games even more popular is their link to the game studio they call home. Studios like Nintendo and Sega have large swaths of the market under their grip. What can you do to break into this market and get more visibility?
1. From Game to Studio
Centralizing your games makes it easier for repeat-purchases from players. When they already love one of your games, they will search to find others. You can also easily send official messages to players on updates and new releases that will be seen from a wider audience scope.
2. Strong Images, Strong Studio
Each genre has their own unique style. Activision is a perfect example. Their studio makes a number of first-person shooter games, so their website is grittier with a black background and action-oriented images. EA Sports highlights realistic, athletic experiences from the first click. While conforming to convention can be a solid first step, your studio needs to have a unique voice and design. Explore what makes your studio separate from competitors and you’ll find your brand.
Using a strong character can also strengthen a studio image. Mario blankets Nintendo’s website from the profile icons, to the favicon at the top of the screen. If you have one game that is purchased more than the others, use that imaging as the foundation for your new studio logo.
3. Think How the Player Thinks
A studio image creates a sense of loyalty in your consumers. They know who you are, what you stand for, and the games that you make. We’ll continue with Nintedo for a strong example of a centralized studio.
Players know what to expect when they hear that Nintendo has released a new game. They understand that the system, platform, and visuals will all be the highest quality. They also know that Nintendo’s mission is to create fun for the whole family. Whenever someone buys a Nintnendo game, they know that it will be a secure and wholesome environment that people of all ages can enjoy. You need to have a similarly solid perception to make a dent in the industry.
Questions to ask yourself when crafting your studio:
- What does your brand stand for?
- What are you known for?
- How do the players and other customers see you?
- What is said about your games online?
- How is your customer service impacting the gaming experience?
This image shows the different styles of brands that exist. In your gaming studio, does your overall brand work hand-in-hand with the individual game? Do your game series speak with each other, or are they separate entities? Determining the level of involvement helps you decide what type of studio you will be.
4. Customer Service and the Player Experience
You not only need to have a strong brand to attract players; you need to follow through with strong customer service and user experience. A bad experience will taint your brand and destroy any chance of building a strong base of players who return to your games.
Take another gaming studio as an example of how to build strong customer loyalty. Concerned Ape released Stardew Valley a couple of years ago and has been working on a separate game entitled Haunted Chocolatier for quite some time (both games will fall under the “Concerned Ape” umbrella). As a solo producer, he creates all the graphics himself and listens to all customer complaints. Players will likely flock to the new game once it releases because they know that he has put his heart and soul into the eight-bit graphics. They also know that he cares about their concerns and will handle issues that arise when playing the game. What do your players know about your company from their experiences with it?
You need your customers to recognize your brand, and connect your brand to positive gaming experiences. Your games and studio can last in the memory of your players if you put the time and care into each concern.
If any of these ideas have piqued your interest, contact us. Let us know what we can do to make your studio stronger. We are ready to help you build at any stage, whether it be an individual game or studio growth.
Written by Parker Smith
