Retention

Retention is arguably the number one early indicator of potential free to play success.

Here is 4 factors we commonly use to explain how Retention is “built up”:

1. Your Core Loop’s design

2. Your tutorial and onboarding

3. Your meta will define your long-term retention

4. High production values (amazing art, visuals)

From: https://mobilefreetoplay.com/bible/improving-games-retention/

Boosting retention:

1. Keep the loop short and simple

2. Make sure your players are progressing

3. Use positive re-enforcement

4. (Carefully!) consider negative re-enforcement

5. Keep updating

6. Make Multiplayer Meaningful!

From: https://www.chilliconnect.com/boosting-retention-in-free-to-play-games/

7. The Main Goal and Sub-goals

From: https://www.deconstructoroffun.com/blog//2013/10/mid-core-success-part-2-retention.html

8. Daily play bonuses (don't punish people for taking a break)

9. Keep players busy

10. Without progress you have nothing

11. Asynchronous > Synchronous

From: https://www.slideshare.net/DavidPChiu/kongregate-maximizing-player-retention-and-monetization-in-freetoplay-games-data-best-practices-and-case-studies-game-connection-europe-2013