Hyper-Casual Vs Casual Games

Mobile games have come a long way from their very first iterations in the app store. Today, mobile games are categorized in various game genres to help users to search for the mobile gaming experience that they enjoy the most. But is there an actual difference between hyper-casual and casual mobile games? Turns out, there are many distinctions between casual and hyper-casual games. In this article, we'll examine a few of the most important distinctions. They include simple mechanics, infinite loops, targeting non-gamers, and high player turnover. But how can you tell if a game is either casual or hyper-casual? It's important to look at the game's context to determine its true classification.

Simple Mechanics

One of the main differences between hyper-casual and conventional games is the use of basic geometry and simple mechanics. These elements are incredibly simple, but they can help a game stay relevant and retain users' attention. In a game like Run Race 3D, for instance, players must tap the screen to jump from one level to another. Moreover, many games feature multiple mechanics while still maintaining their simplicity.

One common example of simple mechanics is the rising and falling of objects. These mechanics are often used in arcade games, where the player can master a single object by increasing speed. The speed of these objects is important, as a higher score will indicate higher skill and dexterity. In hyper-casual games, players are not required to have the same skills as those who play classic arcade games. Nevertheless, simple mechanics in hyper-casual games have their own advantages.

Infinite Loop Mechanics

A key difference between hyper and low-tech games is the level of technical complexity. Hyper-casual games require more complex gameplay mechanics and more testing. Low-tech games can be designed to be as easy as a simple match-three game. For example, a game like Roller Splat requires the player to color a maze with the fewest moves while maximizing their score. In addition, hyper-casual games can incorporate stacking mechanics that involve moving and rotating objects. And if these are combined with other gameplay mechanics, such as timing, you'll find an endless loop.

Growing mechanics are similar to idle mechanics. The player grows to a certain size when they play the game, but they do not necessarily all reach the same size. As a result, growing games become exponentially more fun as more players play and compete with them. In addition, these games typically have longer lifespans than other hyper-casual games. In this way, developers can test different concepts with limited resources.

Targeting Non-Gamers

These games don't involve in-app purchases, preloading, or complicated plots. Instead, they focus on a simple loop gameplay that lets players understand the controls in seconds. Because they are so simple, they are suitable for non-gamers of all skill levels. Developers should make sure that the game's elements and components don't detract from the core gameplay. A good hypercasual game can be created by one person.

While in-app purchases and ads can be distracting, players love to interact with the ads. Unlike other games, these ads feature other hyper-casual games that players can choose to download without paying anything. Users are not required to download these games to enjoy them, and the ads help them discover a vast universe of interesting games without having to download them. This is a good way to monetize your game without putting your entire budget at risk.

High Player Turnover

The difference between high player turnover in hyper-casual and casual games lies in the fact that they're typically less difficult to create and scale. Hyper-casual games often have simple, intuitive gameplay. This results in high player turnover. In addition, developers who create hyper-casual games are often in a race against time, creating as many as 15 games before they publish one. They can spend up to five days developing a gameplay video before they have time to focus on the in-game experience.

In addition, a high player turnover means that developers can cross-promote other titles within their portfolio to attract new players. By incorporating these trends into their games, hyper-casual developers can take advantage of the high number of users who churn out from their games every day. The more players a game has, the more impressions it will receive from advertisers. In turn, hyper-casual games can become more profitable as advertisers begin to realize that these gamers are often more likely to bounce around.

Ad Monetization

The success of ad monetization in hyper-casual games is largely dependent on its strong ad creative. Mobile game ads have become essential for hyper-casual games to survive in the market. Because these games are known for their simplicity and ease of play, it is crucial that the ads convey a compelling story. Depending on the game, rewarded ads are as effective as skippable video ads. These short video interstitials are typically a few seconds long, and can increase revenue by 30-40%.

In order to make the most of ad monetization in hyper-casual games, you need to have a comprehensive retention strategy. You should aim to boost retention rates to at least 40% on day one, and at least 15% on day seven. Luckily, game developers can boost retention rates with various tools. A/B testing and tweaks are effective ways to increase retention. This way, you can maximize the value of each ad and attract more players.

?To better understand the difference between the two genres of games, one must experience it to fully grasp it. So, check out what a hyper-casual gaming experience is like, download our games from Google Play Store here and give it a spin!