How Much Do Mobile Games Make per Ad?
Mobile gaming has become a massive industry in recent years, with billions of players worldwide engaging in various genres of games on their mobile devices. Among the many revenue streams in the mobile gaming world, advertising plays a crucial role. Advertisers seek to reach their target audiences through mobile games, which not only brings in revenue for game developers but also enriches the gaming experience.
So, how much do mobile games make per ad?
Average Revenue Per View (ARPU)
The Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) for mobile games with ads can vary significantly. According to a survey conducted by Adjust, the leading mobile measurement company, the average ARPU is around $0.04 to $0.14 per user per month, with a median ARPU of $0.08 per user per month. This is just a general estimate and ARPU can vary based on factors like game genre, audience engagement, ad inventory, and more.
| Ad Type | ARPU | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Interstitial | $0.02 to $0.16 per impression | Highly dependent on placement and frequency |
| Video | $0.50 to $5 per watch | Requires high-engagement gameplay |
| rewarded Videos | $2 to $5 per completion | Provides an in-game reward or bonus |
| Interactive ads | $1 to $5 per interaction | Triggers in-game rewards, discounts, or promotions |
| Offers and CPI Ads | $0.01 to $1.00 per installation | User purchases an app or generates significant revenue |
Reward-Driven Video Ads:
Reward-Driven Video Ads (RIVA) have become popular among mobile gamers. This format incentivizes players to complete a video ad, thus generating more revenue per install. RIVA revenue per install ranges between $2 to $5, with an average earnings of $2.50 per completion. This type of ad serves as an effective way for publishers to earn revenue without alienating users.
Video Ad CPM
Cost Per Mille (CPM), in the context of mobile ads, represents the revenue an advertiser generates per thousand video ad impressions. Admob, a leading mobile app monetization platform, reportedly earns $5 to $10 per 1,000 video impressions. This estimate takes into account factors such as ad format, publisher domain, and ad content quality.
How Can Developers Increase ARPU?
To optimize mobile game ARPU, consider the following strategies:
- Improve retention rates: Increase game lifetime value by providing an enjoyable and engaging experience.
- Enhance monetization strategies: Implement In-app purchases, subscriptions, and ads in a harmonious balance.
- Optimize ad inventory and placement: Strategically display ads in areas where they are most likely to perform well.
- Focus on high-CTR, high-value ad units: Target high-converting and high-value ad placements that align with your game’s audience and monetization strategy.
- Provide in-game rewards: Foster engagement and increase RPIA (Reward Per Interactive Ad) revenue with RIVA.
In Summary
Mobile games can generate significant revenue per ad, but it requires effective monetization strategies and optimizing ad placements. Factors influencing ARPU include ad formats, user engagement, placement, and audience interests.
- Reward-driven Video Ads (RIVA): RIVA generates between $2 to $5 per completion, while standard video ads typically range between $0.50 to $5 per watch.
- CPM: Admob reportedly earns $5 to $10 per 1,000 video impressions.
- ARPU: $0.04 to $0.14 per user per month on average, with $0.08 per user per month being the median ARPU.
- Increase ARPU by: improving retention rates, enhancing monetization strategies, optimizing ad inventory, targeting high-CTR and high-value ad units, and providing in-game rewards.