The video game industry is growing exponentially, and according to market analysts, it is poised to soon eclipse other forms of entertainment, such as movies and television, in popularity. If you are not a gamer – or related to one – you may not understand how an industry that just started a few decades ago is now dominating the entire entertainment sector.
Video games have become incredibly popular for a wide range of reasons, but the marketing strategies of game developers have certainly played an important role. Here is a closer look at how the top developers have successfully marketed their products.
Streaming, streaming, streaming
One of the biggest marketing avenues in the gaming industry right now is the popularity of streaming platforms. Streaming platforms like Twitch allow thousands of gamers to livestream their playing while also engaging with fans, talking, and developing a following – and sometimes a community.
If this sounds familiar, it is because streamers are often used as influencers in the world of video games to promote and encourage certain games or game consoles. Streaming is essentially the perfect way to sell a particular game as followers of specific streamers can watch a game being played as a sort of test run.
Streaming does not just happen on platforms like Twitch; it is also incredibly popular on massive platforms such as YouTube and Facebook, and the market is only increasing in size.
Bonuses, promotions, and special offers
It should come as no surprise to avid marketing experts and gamers alike that bonuses, promotions, and special offers are a major marketing strategy. One of the subsectors of the gaming industry that has undoubtedly mastered the bonus offer technique is the online gambling and sports betting industry.
Innovative marketing tactics
Never an industry to shy away from the new or unusual, the video game industry has also tried a number of more innovative marketing tactics. Although not all marketing attempts are successful, if you take a look back at the history of video game advertising, it is clear that the industry has come a long way. One area that is seeing a huge amount of growth right now is social media marketing, and the video game industry is taking advantage of it. Many game developers are currently working with gaming influencers and placing social media ads in hopes of extending their reach.