Deconstructor of Fun

Mishka wrestles with the implications of AppLovin’s Triple Dot acquisition, while Scopely’s latest move has everyone questioning the future of Pokémon Go. Eric breaks down the latest insights from the Turkish gaming industry, while Jen dissects the Midia Research gamer segmentation report. Phil revisits the hypercasual ad playbook, while Subway Surfers just keeps running. Plus, a final look at GDC announcements, the mobile vs. console showdown, and what it all means for the industry. The Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter:www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeContinue the conversation on our Slack channel:www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack 04:24 Turkish Gaming Industry Insights 06:20 GDC Event Announcements 09:16 Triple Dot and AppLovin Acquisition Analysis 22:58 Midia Research Gamer Segmentation Report 30:10 Social Elements in Gaming 30:35 Mobile vs Console 31:13 Farmville, Monopoly Go, and Female Gamers 33:41 Subway Surfers 34:23 The Hypercasual Ad Strategy 41:12 Scopely's Acquisition of Niantic Games 44:04 The Future of Pokemon Go 53:50 Scopely's Strategy

www.skillz.com/developeraccelerator/ We dive deep into the world of real-money skill-based gaming and the exciting new Developer Accelerator launched by Skills Inc. Our special guest, Andrew Paradise, CEO and co-founder of Skillz, sheds light on the potential and market opportunity within this rapidly growing industry, discussing what types of games and studios Skillz is looking to support. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:19 Skill-Based Mobile Games Accelerator 04:09 Monetization and Market Strategy 13:32 Retention and Engagement Metrics 22:07 Skill-Based Gaming Market Insights 25:36 Understanding Sweepstakes and Skill-Based Gaming 26:17 Skill-Based Gaming Prizes and Competitions 28:06 Future of Skill Gaming 30:32 Expanding Game Genres and Market Reach 32:57 Skill-Based Gaming on Different Platforms 33:36 Addressing Bot Concerns in Skill Gaming 37:43 Insights from the Startup Journey 43:14 Challenges and Benefits of Going Public 45:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Discover how Istanbul became the new capital of mobile games, overtaking Helsinki, and learn about the journeys and challenges faced by Gram Games, Zynga, and Laton Ventures. The world-class panel shares their thoughts on what makes the Turkish gaming ecosystem unique, the importance of data-driven design, and how to maintain company culture while scaling. THE HYBRIDCASUAL PLAYBOOK: https://metahybridcasualplaybook.splashthat.com/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Guests 00:30 Success Stories and Achievements 03:31 Challenges and Strategies in Game Development 09:14 Company Culture and Hiring Practices 17:47 Scaling Companies and Future Prospects 21:14 Insights on the Turkish Gaming Ecosystem 31:07 Balancing Creativity and Data-Driven Decisions 44:46 Balancing Internal and External Motivations 45:56 Early Days and Scaling Merge Dragons 47:25 The Impact of External Validation 49:29 Cultural Differences in Handling Failure 53:20 Challenges in the Turkish Gaming Industry 01:07:32 The Importance of Mentorship and Partnerships 01:24:22 Future of the Turkish Gaming Ecosystem 01:30:43 Conclusion and Community Engagement

Eric tries his best to make sense of the AppLovin deal, while Monster Hunter Wilds has never made more sense. Laura covers Supercell’s Lonely Island play, Boat Game, while Jen defends Disney IP as it STEPs it up in Japan. Phil wants a recount of Guitar Hero’s demise, while Activision announces another entry in the franchise. The Deconstructor of Fun Newsletter:www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribeContinue the conversation on our Slack channel:www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 02:27 Today's Topics Overview 03:01 Jen's UCLA Story 04:00 GDC Announcements 05:46 AppLovin's Short Seller Drama 07:26 Steam's Record-Breaking Numbers 08:32 AppLovin's Game Division Sale 12:50 Sony's PlayStation VR 2 Price Drop 13:55 Supercell and SpaceApe Updates 17:15 Forte's Acquisition of Sealants 18:06 Miniclip Acquires Lessmore 18:38 Supercell's New Boat Game 23:05 Supercell's Market Mismatch 23:34 Roblox Comparison Debate 24:06 Monetization Challenges 25:01 Split Faction Reviews 25:43 Fable Delayed Again 26:44 Monster Hunter's Global Success 31:29 Disney Step in Japan 34:10 Scopely's Vanity Play 39:06 Guitar Hero Mobile Announcement 44:45 The Fall of Music Games 46:52 Conclusion and Farewell

“The way we survive is built on being creative every day” We sit down with Burak Vardal, CEO and co-founder of Rollic, to explore how the company skyrocketed in just a couple of years from a Turkish startup to one of the most successful mobile game publishers in the world. Burak shares insights on: Download the FREE Hybrid Casual Playbook: metahybridcasualplaybook.splashthat.com/ 🎙️ Join the Deconstructor of Fun Slack Community: www.deconstructoroffun.com/slack 00:00 Introduction and Background of Rollic 06:41 Türkiye as a Hub for Game Development 13:18 Business Model and Future Vision 25:54 Competition and Talent in the Turkish Gaming Industry 29:45 Creativity in Gaming: The Key to Success 31:54 The Importance of Ideation in Mobile Gaming 33:52 The Role of Testing in Game Development 36:32 Transitioning from Startup to Industry Leader 46:46 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers 52:47 Final Thoughts and Future Prospects

To meet the Crew, check out our event in the weekly newsletter:https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe This week we examine Niantic’s valuation and potential exit, questioning whether AR gaming has hit its ceiling. We also break down Unity’s latest earnings, examining where the company is headed post-restructuring. Meanwhile, PrizePix blurs the lines between gaming and gambling, raising concerns about the future of real money mechanics. On the platform side, we analyze Hasbro Digital’s unexpected success, Steam Deck’s impact on the PC market, and whether Epic Game Store’s strategy is finally paying off. We also explore GTA’s massive UGC potential, Warner Bros studio closures, and dive into the return of Overwatch loot boxes—because what’s old is new again. Finally, we look at the latest mobile trends, including Love and Deep Space’s unique RPG take and the breakout success of Last War Survival. Oh, and of course, fake ads are still a thing. 01:19 Star Wars 03:36 Shilling and Advice 06:48 Niantic's Valuation and Exit 08:48 PrizePix and Gambling 11:44 Hasbro Digital's Success 16:04 Epic Game Store Analysis 23:03 GTA and UGC Potential 29:14 Steam Deck's Impact on the PC Market 30:17 Unity's Earnings & Vector 44:00 Warner Bros Studio Closures 45:50 Love and Deep Space: A Unique RPG 48:18 Last War Survival's Success 50:09 Fake Ads 57:33 Overwatch Loot Boxes Return?? 58:45 Conclusion and Sign-Off

Marcos Muller, Director of Abu Dhabi talks about how the city is building a world-class gaming ecosystem from the ground up. From talent development to job creation and community engagement, Abu Dhabi Gaming is making big moves to attract studios, support developers, and put the region on the global gaming map. Marcos shares insights on the incentives for game studios, and the growth of the gaming economy in the UAE, and even breaks down some misconceptions about life in Abu Dhabi. If you’re a game dev, investor, or just curious about emerging gaming hubs, this episode is a must-listen! connect with Marcos: www.linkedin.com/in/mmhabig/ Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & Welcome Marcos Muller 02:15 – Why Abu Dhabi is Investing in Gaming 06:30 – Building a Sustainable Gaming Ecosystem 12:45 – The Role of Incubators, Accelerators & Studios 18:20 – Financial Incentives & Support for Game Companies 23:40 – Addressing the Talent Gap: Visas, Universities & Local Growth 30:10 – What Makes Abu Dhabi Attractive for Game Developers? 37:55 – Busting Myths About Living & Working in Abu Dhabi 45:20 – Abu Dhabi’s Long-Term Vision for Gaming 50:05 – Final Thoughts & Advice for Game Developers

Our IRL events. Signup via the newsletter: https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe Scopely and Niantic are making moves, but can they actually change the game? NetEase unloads Marvel Rivals US studio—a political or an efficiency move? Plus, SMicrosoft’s console strategy looks shakier than ever, and we break down what the future of console gaming really looks like. And just when you thought it was over, King pulls another card from its sleeve. 🚀🎮 03:55 - GDC Shills 11:03 - Scopely & Niantic 20:10 - Jam City & Ludia AR Market 21:43 - Marvel Rivals & Netease 31:13 - Sony Earnings 32:06 - Microsoft's Console Struggles 38:00 - The Future of Console Gaming 50:54 - Return of King

🔗 Connect with Boris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boris-kalmykov-7ba38065/ We chat with Boris Kalnikov, CEO & Co-founder of Hype Masters, about relocating his gaming studio from London to Abu Dhabi. Boris shares his journey with World War Armies, the challenges of remote work, and why he chose Abu Dhabi as his new home. We dive into Abu Dhabi’s rise as a gaming hub, its government incentives, and the realities of running a studio in the region—from tax benefits to hiring talent and lifestyle changes. Whether you’re a developer, founder, or just curious about gaming in the Middle East, this episode has key insights you won’t want to miss. Timestamps: ⏳ [00:00] Why Boris left London for Abu Dhabi 🏗️ [06:00] Building a gaming studio in a new ecosystem 💰 [20:00] What incentives and funding opportunities are available? ⚖️ [27:00] Abu Dhabi vs. London: Cost of living, taxes & hiring 🎮 [40:00] The future of gaming in Abu Dhabi 💬 the DoF Community: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe 🎧 Subscribe: www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe

ALL upcoming events in our newsletter: https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe Supercell had a monster year with €2.8B in revenue, proving that bigger live ops teams and aggressive marketing can still drive growth—but let’s be real, Squad Busters flopped hard despite the hype. Meanwhile, Unity continues its slow-motion train wreck, losing key talent and scrambling to fix its ad tech, while AppLovin is absolutely crushing it, with stock up 700% thanks to AI-powered ads. Now, in a power move, AppLovin is dumping its entire games portfolio for $900M—so who’s buying? Scopely? Zynga? Playtika? Drop your bets in the comments. 🚀🎮 01:29 Shills 07:25 Dream and Venture Capital 10:27 Battlefield and Shooter Games 14:23 Minecraft Studio Leadership Changes 20:39 Supercell's Record Year 25:57 Live Ops and Monetization Changes 26:52 Squad Busters' Marketing Missteps 31:35 Spark Labs's Bootcamp Vibes 37:44 Unity's Struggles and Layoffs 41:45 AppLovin's Strategic Shift

State of Mobile Report:https://sensortower.com/state-of-mobile-2025 Join us in this episode as Jonathan Briskman from Sensor Towers and Michail Katkoff explore the overall health of the mobile market. Jonathan highlights strong growth metrics despite a mature landscape and sheds light on the booming in-app purchase revenue and time spent on devices, while also discussing intriguing trends such as digital fatigue and the rise of hybrid apps. Jonathan sheds light on the booming in-app purchase revenue and time spent on devices, while also discussing intriguing trends such as digital fatigue and the rise of hybrid apps. We also touch on the global success stories in mobile gaming, with a special focus on new hit games and the strategic importance of localization for cracking difficult markets like Japan and South Korea. 01:03 Mobile Market Trends and Metrics 05:33 Mobile Gaming Analysis 07:50 Challenges and Regional Factors 15:50 Success Stories and Strategies 25:57 Non-Gaming App Revenue Growth 35:03 Innovative AI Features in Apps 35:29 Gamification and User Engagement 36:36 Duolingo: A Game or Learning Tool? 38:14 Blurring Lines Between Games and Non-Games 38:25 Short Drama Apps: A Growing Trend 40:45 Global Mobile Usage Trends 42:26 Digital Fatigue and Market Shifts 49:40 Localization Strategies for Global Success 53:56 Emerging Markets and Growth Opportunities 56:46 Tapping into User-Generated Content Platforms 01:00:06 Key Takeaways from the State of Mobile Report

Wilfrid Obeng’s journey from Goldman Sachs and Google to gaming startup CTO is anything but typical. In this episode, he breaks down how AudioMob is redefining in-game ads with audio, why they chose Abu Dhabi over Silicon Valley to scale their engineering team, and what it takes to transition from corporate structure to startup chaos. We dig into leadership lessons, hiring strategies, and the future of ad monetization—all from someone who’s been in the trenches. If you’re scaling a startup or rethinking monetization, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧🔥 www.linkedin.com/in/wilfridobeng 00:00 Wilfrid Obeng and AudioMob 04:51 From Goldman Sachs to Startup CTO 07:24 The Importance of Mentorship 13:40 Creating a Performance Culture 24:52 Life in Abu Dhabi: Work and Play 28:47 Hiring and Leadership in a Diverse Team 35:03 The Reality of Startups 37:10 Competing for Talent in Startups 39:05 Leadership Evolution and Challenges 42:07 The Importance of Company Culture 56:44 Living and Working in Abu Dhabi 01:05:01 Future Plans and Personal Growth

signup to our newsletter and join our on-site events: https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/subscribe With Jen at a meditation retreat in California and Miska fully embracing his jet-set life, Eric reminds us just how wrong Matthew Ball got it. Adam reveals the Multiversus thesis and argues that Battlefield has room to grab dormant fans and grow the market. Phil spews Battlefield tears and worries about Roblox’s value destruction. They conclude by debating the AI integration in-games: flop or tbd?

This episode features insights from top industry professionals on player engagement, revenue models, and the challenges faced by new releases like Helldivers 2, First Descendant, and Once Human. Dive into in-depth discussions on successful PvE models, key strategies for game success, and the future of game monetization. Join Adam Telfer and a panel of experts as they explore the latest trends in PvE shooters and the evolving tools needed for effective LiveOps. Brought to you by Heroic Labs, AppsFlyer, Sensor Tower, and Xsolla. 02:31 Market Overview of PVE Shooters 03:25 Recent Releases and Trends 04:07 Revenue and Engagement 07:54 PVE Live Service Challenges 08:42 Helldivers 2: Success and Future 13:54 The Competitive Landscape 27:04 First Descendant and Once Human 27:38 First Descendant's Elder Loop 29:27 PvE Shooter Systems 30:42 Helldivers 2: On The Way Out 36:34 Warframe's Sustained Success 40:13 Strategies for PvE Shooter Success 45:52 The Future of PvE Shooters

We start off with Kress coming after Matthew Ball and his take on the Metaverse and end the episode with Jen making the last stance for brand marketers. In between the team breaks down the FTC’s latest settlement on loot boxes and what it means for the industry. Deep dive into Ubisoft's sea of worries and discuss Habby’s latest launch hurdles. 00:00 Intros 01:40 Shills 02:50 GDC Announcements and Sponsors 06:35 Corrections and Apologies 08:09 Matthew Ball and the Metaverse Debate 19:20 Loot Boxes and FTC Settlement 23:54 Sony, Marvel Snap, and Warner Brothers 28:58 Tech Company Operations 29:09 Star Wars Outlaws Sales Analysis 29:58 Ubisoft Helsinki and Gwen's Getaway 31:05 Rainbow Six Mobile's Struggles 32:34 Virtuous Acquisitions and Outsourcing 36:23 Habby's Game Launch Challenges 41:04 EA's Top Selling Games and Earnings 46:18 Marketing Strategies and Impact 57:15 Conclusion and Sign-Off

Xsolla State of Play report: https://xsolla.com/newsroom/xsolla-autumn-2024-report Mobile gaming is bigger than ever, with the industry set to hit $98.7 billion in 2024. But where is that growth coming from? In this episode, we sit down with Xsolla’s Chris Hewish to break down the key trends shaping the global market—from Asia’s dominance to the rise of emerging regions like Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. We also dig into how player demographics are shifting and what it means for game makers. With diversity becoming a bigger focus, studios are rethinking how they engage and design for an increasingly varied audience. Chris unpacks the impact of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), explaining how developers are navigating new monetization opportunities beyond traditional app stores. We also tackle the surge of direct-to-consumer web shops, how gaming is merging with mainstream entertainment (yes, we’re looking at you, Secret Level), and what all of this means for the future of the industry. If you want to stay ahead of where mobile gaming is headed, this episode is a must-listen.

How do Playtika and Wooga nail their Live Ops strategies? What does GameRefinery say you’re missing? In this episode, Nadav Moshes (Product & Market Insights Lead at Playtika), Maxime Graux (Head of Product Management at Wooga), and Erno Kiiski (Chief Game Analyst at GameRefinery) sit down with our very own Jen Donahoe to dissect the art and science of Live Ops. From mobile to PC/console gaming, we break down the latest trends driving social, engagement, and monetization events. Discover how understanding player motivations is the key to creating better events and why a holistic event framework is critical to your Live Ops success. We dive into practical strategies around segmentation, iteration, and gamified offers to level up engagement and boost your monetization. Whether you’re building your Live Ops muscle or refining your existing strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights for every game developer. 01:05 Meet the Experts: Nadav, Max, and Erno 07:36 Social LiveOps: Trends and Examples 12:31 Monopoly Go's Collaborative and Competitive Events 15:02 June's Journey: Social Features and Player Motivations 25:11 Engagement LiveOps: Long-Term and Short-Term Events 33:07 The Importance of Long-Term Engagement 36:40 Short-Term Collection Mechanics 38:15 Multi-Stage Mission Events 43:19 Advanced Segmentation in LiveOps 49:54 Challenges in Testing and Iteration 51:19 Monetization Strategies and Bundle Offers 01:01:50 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

TikTok’s gaming experiment closures and Marvel Snap’s China operations highlight the challenges of scaling global hits. Netflix’s games strategy is dissected, alongside surprising trends like the resurgence of Solitaire, which seems to be tapping into the nostalgia economy. The discussion turns heavier as the team unpacks sweeping workforce cuts at Huuuge Games and the growing dominance of Chinese game developers on the global stage. Bonfire Studios’ new game announcement and Matthew Ball’s analysis of gaming’s shifting market dynamics provide fresh perspectives on innovation and competition. 01:13 TV Show Marketing 02:49 Marketing Strategy Debate 06:14 Shills 10:19 Nintendo Switch 2 Leaks 12:56 TikTok and Marvel Snap Shutdowns 16:36 Industry Moves and New Roles 19:44 Netflix Games Strategy 21:36 Solitaire Making a Comeback?? 31:31 Bonfire Studios’ New Game 34:36 Huge Games Workforce Cuts 35:28 Matthew Ball’s Market Analysis 47:12 The Rise of Chinese Game Developers 49:57 The Cost of Game Development 58:02 Future Growth Levers in Gaming

Jen Donahoe sits down with Alexandra Takei, a rising star who’s making waves in the gaming industry. They dive into what it takes to bridge the gap between business and creativity in gaming, the hard-earned lessons from startups, and how proactive collaboration can drive innovation. Alexandra discusses empathy and mentorship's critical role in her career and shares advice for those navigating the fast-paced gaming ecosystem. 01:04 About Alex Takei 03:43 Early Career and Entry into Gaming 10:30 Blizzard Experience and Mentorship 23:51 PJourney to Content Creation 29:11 Venture Capital and Bitcraft 34:51 Understanding Game Complexity and Business Models 35:32 The Importance of Team Inclusivity 36:27 Challenges of Pitching and Raising Money 37:14 Navigating Game Development Constraints 38:14 Startup Dynamics vs. Big Companies 39:20 Wearing Multiple Hats in a Startup 42:20 Empathy and Flexibility in Leadership 50:55 The Role of Mentorship 57:52 Final Advice for Aspiring Professionals 01:00:57 Alex's Sign-Off gaming industry, podcasting, venture capital, Blizzard, mentorship, career journey, game development, business strategy, content creation, women in gaming, gaming, business, empathy, mentorship, startups, game development, career advice, leadership, women in gaming, entrepreneurship

Join us at PGC After Dark: ⁠https://lu.ma/m75avtgb⁠ This week’s TWIG episode starts with bold predictions for 2025 in mobile gaming, followed by Eric Kress’s half-hearted backtracking on hyper-casual games and the latest Nintendo Switch 2 leaks before deep diving into Marvel Rivals’ potential impact. The team revisits the year’s most significant moments, explores standout moments, and wraps up with listener feedback and reflections. 00:00 Squad Intros 01:28 California Wildfires + How to Help 03:18 Shills 05:34 Predictions for 2025 in Mobile 09:44 Corrections and Hyper Casual Talk 14:06 Nintendo Switch 2 Leaks 16:05 Investments and Funding News 20:15 Marvel Rivals 34:10 Talk of the Year: Mass Layoffs 34:53 Embarrassing Predictions 35:58 Company Damage: Ubisoft's Downfall 37:04 Most Disappointing Game 40:36 Financial Success: Mice Nuts 42:32 Questionable Moves 47:46 Brilliant Moves 50:35 Crushing It: Brawl Stars 53:13 Layoff Lowlights 53:43 Limping Donkey Award 55:20 Listener Feedback and Wrap-Up