Integrated and launched IGA-WW Radial In-game advertising system
Integrated the Speed-TreeSDK into the game
Before
After
The Gaza Campaign● 2 new maps● Israeli & Iranian troops● New weapons● Multiple art assets
Added over 55 new features
● Roaming server● Revamped User Interface● Additional medals and awards● Dedicated server upgrades● Server admin console & commands● Engine optimizations● Dynamic audio/visual auto-updates for in-house adverts
Some of the lessons we learned from this
process
It’s a good idea to work with the game
community
● Strengthens the gaming community● A lot of great ideas comes from the gamers● Creates positive reputation for the developer● Improves the game
LessonPay attention to your
gamers
It’s NOT a good idea to add or replace core
technologies after the game was released
● Replacing core technologies is time consuming (ST took two months!)● Can require re-production or re-designing of assets and maps● Can change hardware requirements● Creates compatibility problems with existing gamers
LessonHave all your core
technologies built-in from day one
In-game advertising is a good revenue stream but it’s not enough
● Rising Eagle is a good mid-tier game● It is fun to play● It has innovative & intense gameplay● It is free to download and play● It is available world wide
PROOF!
THAT’S PERFECT!(NOT)
So what do I need?!
MARKETING&
DISTRIBUTION
Ok… we’ll do some viral marketing!
● Even viral marketing is an art● Marketing must be relative to the project● There is no guarantee it will work for you
But I have a kick-ass game and I am giving it for free!
● Didn’t you know that Call Of Duty 5 is free on the PC as well?● Immense competition● It comes down to visibility
But GameSpy & GameSpot will do a review of my game!
(NOT THAT SIMPLE)
Party Pooper! So what should I do?
● Surround yourself with professionals ● Plan everything from day ONE (Business Plan)● Clearly define the product (Design Doc)● Have an adequate budget for the mission● Manage your risks (example: licensing)● Marketing & Distribution are as important as the product● Before you start writing code Download Yaron’s “Willing suspension of disbelief” presentation!
MISSION
FINANCIAL SUCCESS
Final lessonSolutions are relative to your
product, budget & team
What options do I have?
Option #1: Do it yourself, if you can
Option #2 …
PUBLISHER(but that’s a whole different presentation )