8 popular types of in-app purchases for mobile games (Pt.1)

Posted on 十二月 11 2024

In-app purchases remain one of the most prevalent and effective methods for monetizing mobile games, offering developers a steady revenue stream while enhancing player engagement. Although consumer spending in mobile games has cooled in recent years, the industry still achieved an impressive $107.3 billion USD in revenue in 2023, reflecting the enduring appeal of this monetization model.

When it comes to in-game purchases, most fall into two main categories: durable and consumable. These categories are defined by how long the purchased item remains accessible to the player. To better understand how developers leverage these models, let’s dive into the 8 most commonly used types of IAP, exploring their characteristics and examples in practice.

1. In-game currency

In-game currency stands as the most popular type of in-app purchase (IAP) among mobile players due to its versatility. It empowers players to decide when and how they spend it, offering a sense of ownership over the in-game economy. In-game currency can also be bundled with other items, such as loot boxes or premium content, to enhance its value.

According to Mistplay's 2024 Mobile Gaming Spender Report, in-game currency remains the top choice for high-value spenders (those who spend $100 or more), underscoring its broad appeal and profitability.

Type: Consumable
Example: In Tuyoo's Fight the Landlord , players can purchase two types of currency: diamonds and coins. Diamonds, the premium currency, provide a greater degree of flexibility, enabling players to skip wait times, acquire essential resources, and unlock features that elevate the gaming experience.

2. Power-ups and boosters

Power-ups and boosters are a widely favored type of in-app purchase (IAP) that provide temporary gameplay enhancements, offering players advantages such as increased power or faster progression during specific stages. These features are particularly appealing because they elevate the gaming experience without fundamentally altering the game's core mechanics.

The concept of power-ups dates back to the early days of gaming, with one of the first examples being Pac-Man’s iconic Power Pellet in 1980. This simple yet transformative feature allowed Pac-Man to attack ghosts rather than flee from them, introducing an engaging twist to the gameplay.

Today, power-ups often sit behind paywalls, making them a popular IAP model. Unlike pay-to-play mechanics, these purchases enhance gameplay without blocking access, striking a balance between monetization and player satisfaction.

Type: Consumable
Example: In Homescapes, the Double Planes booster doubles all planes on the field, significantly boosting the player’s ability to clear levels and progress more efficiently.

By blending convenience and strategic gameplay, power-ups and boosters continue to be a key component of IAP strategies in mobile gaming.

3. Bundles

IAP bundles in mobile games are exactly what they sound like—a collection of valuable items packaged together for players to purchase. These bundles provide developers with the flexibility to experiment with various combinations of in-game items, such as currency, skins, and power-ups, to determine what resonates best with their audience.

Bundles are also an excellent tool for targeting specific player segments at key moments in the game. For example, low-cost "Starter Packs" introduce new players to the value of IAP, easing them into spending by enhancing their gameplay experience at an affordable price point. Seasonal or event-based bundles, like a "Christmas Bundle" filled with themed content, or personalized options like a "Birthday Bundle," add variety and encourage players to engage more deeply with the game.

According to PocketGamer, implementing Starter Packs between three and seven days into gameplay creates a sense of exclusivity and urgency, encouraging players to act quickly while still giving them time to consider their purchase. The timing is crucial to maximize engagement and conversion rates without overwhelming the player.

Type: Varies
Example: In Coin Master, players who make their first purchase are offered a limited-time "Adventure Pack" bundle containing extra resources, encouraging further investment and increasing retention.

By combining value, timing, and personalization, IAP bundles remain a versatile and effective monetization tool in the mobile gaming industry.

4. Cosmetics and skins

Cosmetic in-game items, such as skins and wearables, are a popular in-app purchase (IAP) option that enables players to customize their characters, vehicles, or equipment. These items add a layer of personalization, allowing players to showcase their style, status, or creativity. They are especially prevalent in genres like Simulation, RPGs, Shooters, and multiplayer games, where aesthetics play a significant role in distinguishing players from one another and enhancing the social aspect of the experience.

Unlike other IAP types, cosmetic items do not influence gameplay mechanics and are purely visual. Despite this, they are an incredibly lucrative part of many mobile games' monetization strategies. According to a Newzoo study, 43% of U.S.-based gamers utilize skins in the games they play, highlighting the strong appeal of customization among players.

Type: Durable
Example: In Eggy Party, players can purchase various cosmetic items, including hats, skins, and even pets, to personalize their crewmates. These items are available individually or as part of bundles, typically priced at $2–$10 USD, making them an accessible and enticing option for players seeking to stand out.

Cosmetic IAPs thrive on the appeal of self-expression and community interaction, making them a staple in the monetization strategies of many successful mobile games.

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