Comprehensive Guide to Game Ad Placements: Part 1

Welcome to our journey toward creating the most comprehensive guide on game ad placements you’ll find. This series is all about filling in the blanks and providing clear, easy-to-understand insights, especially for those of you at gaming studios, and for developers and monetization experts out there. We’re going to take a close look at what’s happening in the gaming world right now, using examples from the top 100 games of 2023 as our guide.

When it comes to really making your ad placements work, it’s all about finding those perfect spots in your game. Spots where you can offer something valuable to your players in return for watching an ad. And you know, what’s considered valuable can really change depending on the type of game. For instance, in action games, players might value unlocking a new weapon more than skipping a level. Or in puzzle games, getting a hint might be more tempting than a free spin.

As I’m eager to share a wealth of information and examples with you, it makes sense to split this guide into several parts. This way, we can really dig deep into each section, exploring various examples from different genres. My goal is to give you a wide range of ideas that you can experiment with in your current or next game project.

Ad Placements at the Beginning of The Level

Let’s talk about ad placements at the beginning of a level. Imagine you’re playing a hyper-casual game; you’re about to start a new level, and bam, there’s an offer for ‘+10 Blocks’ or an ‘Immediate Upgrade.’ These rewards are perfectly woven into the gameplay, enticing players to watch an ad for a nifty advantage. It’s a brilliant way to kick off a level.

Ad Placements at the Middle of The Level

Now, fast forward to the middle of the level. Your players are deep in the game, and the tension is high. Then, a lifeline appears: an option for ‘Extra Power’ or to ‘Slow Down Others’ in a race. These ad placements are like hidden treasures, perfectly timed for when players need that extra boost.

Ad Placements at the End of the Level — When Player Failed

But what about when a player fails a level? Here’s where the real magic happens. Offering the option to skip the level or get an extra life in exchange for watching an ad turns a loss into a potential win. It’s a clever way to keep players hooked, turning a setback into an engaging choice.

Ad Placements at the End of the Level — When Player Won

And let’s not forget the triumphant end of a level. This is where ad placements celebrate player success, offering rewards like a multiplier or a unique in-game item for the next challenge. It’s more than a reward; it’s a bridge to the next exciting phase of the game.

That wraps up Part 1 of our guide. We’ve explored the nuanced world of ad placements in gaming, revealing how they can be seamlessly integrated into the gameplay. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into leveling up your game’s side meta with smart ad placements. It’s a journey through the clever, intricate world of game design, and I’m thrilled to be your guide!