In our most recent ebook, we provided a free comprehensive guide for boosting web sales. The following is a condensed version that looks at boosting sales via the web with direct-to-consumer strategies, loyalty programs, and how Xsolla Mall is a practical solution to remain competitive in the ever-evolving gaming landscape. For the entire ebook, click the link to download your free copy today.To understand the powerhouse D2C strategy and sales provided to the gaming industry, let's look back to 2020. Businesses across sectors had to adapt rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This global event permanently changed consumer buying habits when retailers turned to the online marketplace to continue selling goods and services. This pivot to the digital space has continued, with consumers embracing the convenience of shopping from their devices, often turning to social media influencers/creators and sites to learn about new products instead of traditional retail marketing. As a result, ecommerce sales are projected to hit a 12% CAGR, growing to $7.4 trillion by 2025. This ripple effect has created opportunities for direct-to-consumer (D2C) channel growth across all industries, including the gaming market.
Growth opportunities with D2C
D2C channels are a real game changer for developers. They can circumvent the challenges presented by rising platform costs and a lack of game visibility and player data. The benefits include increasing revenue, user insight, and control over their branding. Players benefit, too, by having access to more content, leading to better retention and engagement rates that foster community growth and loyalty.The simplest way to deploy a D2C strategy is to use customized online storefronts or web stores. These allow developers to take their games to market faster while avoiding getting lost on traditional platforms that charge expensive fees. By establishing a web store, developers can gain valuable insights into their players' behavior, preferences, and purchasing habits, information that is not typically available when using a traditional gaming platform. This data can be used to tailor products and marketing strategies to better serve players. Additionally, web stores give developers greater control over their brand image and user experience, from imagery to messaging. This can foster stronger relationships with players, increasing loyalty and the likelihood of repeat purchases.Loyalty Programs and RewardsLoyalty programs and rewards are powerful tools for boosting game sales when combined with a strong D2C strategy. Rewards can drive customer retention, increase revenue, and elevate brand awareness. These programs cultivate a dedicated player base by rewarding players for actions like in-game spending and referrals, encouraging repeat purchases, and fostering long-term loyalty.To maximize their impact, rewards programs should be seamlessly integrated into a game's overall ecosystem, working in tandem with features like an in-game webshop. Furthermore, rewards should go beyond just being a web-based feature. Offering rewards through popular community platforms like Discord, Telegram bots, or mini-apps within your game can greatly enhance accessibility and engagement. This makes the rewards experience more immersive for players while boosting key metrics like player activity and lifetime value.Incorporating influencers/creators into your loyalty and rewards programs can also yield high returns when combining the two strategies. By having content creators promote early access or exclusive content, you can further incentivize continued and higher player participation. This will help when building out your player community and foster loyal relationships between your audience and the people you partner with.Xsolla Mall is here to helpXsolla Mall is a revolutionary platform that empowers game developers to create customized storefronts and expand their reach to a global audience. Establish a strong online presence and drive sales with your gaming content. Built for cloud, mobile, and PC, unlock your games' full potential and drive sustainable growth with the following features:
Create a Customized Storefront: Design a branded storefront that reflects your game's identity and appeals to your target audience.
Increase Revenue: Benefit from higher conversion rates and increased sales through targeted marketing and exclusive offers.
Seamless Integration: Easily integrate your existing web store or create a new one from scratch.
Expanded Distribution Channels: Reach a wider audience by selling your games across multiple platforms and regions.
Xsolla Mall offers a comprehensive solution for game developers facing challenges such as intense competition, high acquisition costs, platform fees, and limited player data. By providing a platform for direct-to-consumer sales, reducing reliance on platform fees, and offering valuable insights into player behavior, Xsolla helps developers overcome these obstacles. Boost engagement, retention, and revenue with our streamlined management services and optimize your marketing efforts and growth goals.
Getting Started with Xsolla
Are you ready to take your game to the next level? Xsolla Mall offers the tools and resources to thrive in today's competitive gaming market. Schedule a meeting with a team member today, download the full ebook on our guide to boosting web sales, or visit our website to start your journey to a more sustainable and growth-forward gaming ecosystem.
Marketing for Indie Video Game DevelopersRead Blog
Gain insight into the importance of employing D2C strategies for your mobile games with this preview from the latest edition of The Xsolla Report, Autumn 2024.