Our latest episode of Find the Way podcast, we discuss the world of gaming - what does it mean to go viral, building a game brand, and the marketing versus product divide.

Angry Birds & Trivia Crack have managed to become globally recognized brands and examples of successful gaming endeavors. Alongside Maximo Cavazzani and Peter Vesterbacka, we get into the challenges and strategies behind rapid growth, the importance of a great product and marketing, the need for a combination of factors to create a hit game, and more.

Maximo Cavazzani is the founder and CEO of etermax, the global interactive entertainment company, creator of flagship brands like Trivia Crack (Preguntados) and Word Crack (Apalabrados) which have been connecting, building communities, and co-creating value through interactive content in more than 180 countries for more than 10 years.

Peter Vesterbacka was the CMO and Mighty Eagle at Rovio Entertainment Corporation | Angry Birds for many years taking that brand to unprecedented heights. Branded communities co-created and initiated by Peter include the HP Bazaar, Mobile Monday, Slush, and Startup Sauna. In 2011, Time Magazine named Peter one of the 100 most influential people on the planet.

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Key takeaways:

1. Global Strategy is Crucial: Max and Peter emphasize starting with a global perspective to ensure broad market appeal. They highlight that understanding diverse gamer needs and preferences from the beginning can significantly impact a game's international success.
2. Localizing Content: Tailoring game content to fit cultural norms and languages of different regions is essential for global reach. This approach not only enhances user experience but also increases market penetration and player retention in varied geographic locations.
3. Balance Between Product and Marketing: A high-quality game alone doesn't guarantee success; strategic marketing is equally important. They discuss leveraging social media, influencers, and community engagement to create buzz and drive game adoption.
4. Scaling in a Competitive Environment: Navigating growth amidst fierce competition requires innovative strategies. They share insights into continuously evolving game features and engaging with the community to stay relevant and competitive.
5. Attention to Detail: Small details in game design and user interface can significantly affect player satisfaction and engagement. Max and Peter stress the importance of refining these elements to enhance the overall gaming experience.
6. Beyond the Game – Branding: Establishing a strong brand identity beyond the game itself is vital for long-term success. They talk about creating merchandise, organizing events, and fostering a community to build a lasting relationship with players.
7. Personal Motivation: Both speakers share their passion for making a difference in the gaming industry and beyond. They express a desire to inspire future entrepreneurs and to be remembered for contributing positively and innovatively to their field.
8. Innovation as a Key Driver: Continuous innovation is crucial for keeping the game and brand fresh and engaging. They emphasize the importance of introducing new gameplay elements, technologies, and narratives to maintain player interest.
9. Community Engagement: Actively engaging with the game's community is highlighted as a method to gather feedback, foster loyalty, and create a sense of belonging among players. This engagement is seen as essential for iterative improvement and sustained growth.
10. The Role of Data in Decision Making: Utilizing data analytics to inform decisions regarding game development, marketing strategies, and user experience improvements. They discuss how data can reveal player preferences, identify areas for enhancement, and drive targeted marketing efforts.

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Listen to the podcast here.