Research Summary
The report discusses key developments in the gaming industry during the 40th week of 2023. It covers Samsung’s launch of a new gaming service, Epic Games’ introduction of age and content ratings for Fortnite, Niantic’s in-game rewarded AR ads for Pokémon Go, the implications of recent layoffs in the gaming industry, and the release of a new live-streaming feature on X (Twitter). The report also highlights various insights and data from independent creators in the gaming sector.
Key Takeaways
Samsung’s Game Launcher
- Samsung’s New Gaming Service: Samsung is set to launch its Game Launcher on Galaxy phones. Unlike the TV version, which aggregates different cloud gaming services, the mobile version will be operated solely by Samsung and will focus on mobile titles. The Game Launcher aims to reduce the friction of installing and registering games by launching players directly into the game.
Epic Games’ Age and Content Ratings
- Fortnite’s New Rating System: Epic Games is introducing an Age and Content ratings system for Fortnite. Third-party creators will be required to complete a questionnaire about their game’s content and accessibility. The International Age Rating Coalition (IARC) will lead this effort, and the ratings will be reviewed by Epic Games moderators before being displayed. This move could have significant implications for user-generated content platforms.
Niantic’s In-Game AR Ads
- Pokémon Go’s AR Ads: Niantic, the creator of Pokémon Go, has launched in-game rewarded AR ads for Lunchables. This new ad format, which was announced earlier in the year, is being used for its first brand campaign. The effectiveness of these new ad mediums is yet to be determined.
Recent Layoffs in the Gaming Industry
- Industry-wide Layoffs: The report discusses the recent wave of layoffs in the gaming industry, attributing it to factors such as the natural retraction of the industry post-COVID, higher interest rates, and general economic malaise. The report suggests that the upcoming Q4 sales numbers will provide further insight into how game companies are recalibrating.
X (Twitter)’s New Live-streaming Feature
- Live-streaming on X: The report highlights the release of a new live-streaming feature on X (Twitter), noting that the platform’s seamless streaming experience could lead to the birth of a new vertical for X. The report also mentions Elon Musk’s recent live stream of Diablo IV on X.
Actionable Insights
- Exploring New Gaming Services: The launch of Samsung’s Game Launcher presents an opportunity to explore new gaming services that reduce friction for players. This could potentially lead to increased user engagement and retention.
- Understanding the Impact of Ratings: The introduction of age and content ratings in Fortnite could have significant implications for user-generated content platforms. It’s crucial to understand how these ratings could affect content creation and moderation.
- Investigating New Ad Formats: The launch of in-game AR ads in Pokémon Go presents an opportunity to investigate the effectiveness of new ad formats in engaging users and driving brand awareness.
- Assessing the Impact of Industry Trends: The recent layoffs in the gaming industry highlight the importance of assessing the impact of industry trends and economic factors on business operations.
- Exploring Live-streaming Opportunities: The launch of a new live-streaming feature on X (Twitter) presents an opportunity to explore new platforms for live streaming and engage with a wider audience.
