Gaming Reward Schedules

Mastering Freemium Series
Reward Schedules

Mastering Freemium Gaming
This presentation is an extension of a series on the W3i blog
Mastering Freemium Game Mechanics
About W3i: W3i has distributed more than 500 million applications across desktops, browsers and iOS devices. In the fall of 2010 W3i launched Recharge Studios, a wholly owned iOS game publishing studio with more than a $1,000,000 in funding available for developers of freemium iOS games. W3i Mobile has developed a diverse network for mobile app distribution and monetization. For more information on W3i’s mobile expertise visit w3i.com.

Retention is key
26% of apps are opened only once, don’t let your freemium game fall into the 26%.

Reward Schedules Can Help
Well timed and executed reward schedules can go a long way in retaining users and optimizing monetization for your freemium game.
Two kinds of reward schedules
Fixed interval
Fixed action

Fixed interval reward schedules
Fixed intervalreward schedules are tied solely to elements of time.
Most common in games using decay/delay mechanics (think farming, cooking, building etc.)
Strengthens monetization by offering “hurry” options.
Allows a bypass of time in exchange for “X” virtual currency.
Also a component of compulsion loops.

Fixed interval reward schedules
Delay element
Time bypass in exchange for “X”

Fixed action reward schedules
Fixed actionreward schedules are tied to actions
If gamer collects/does/finds “X” they will achieve “Y”
Clean a tank, get dolphin bucks. Build house, get experience points(XP).
Achievements can be tied to both time or action.
Also a component of compulsion loops.

Elements of a good reward schedule
Contingency, a user is clearly educated on what the process for reward is. They know what needs to be done to achieve advancement, reward etc.

Response, when requirements are met, the game must provide clear and consistent messaging of the achievement.
Good opportunity to add social/viral elements.

Reinforcement, providing positive reinforcement for users who complete desired actions, pass certain milestones etc. is the final and third element of a good reward schedule.

What now?
Good luck with your freemium gaming. This presentation is an extension of the W3i blog series “Mastering Freemium Game Mechanics”. Follow us for the latest on app marketing and freemium gaming tips.
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Gaming Reward Schedules

by W3i on Feb 10, 2011

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Gaming Reward Schedules — Presentation Transcript