Philip Reisberger

🍀 𝘼𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙮, 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙬𝙨. 𝘾𝙞𝙥𝙎𝙤𝙛𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝟭𝟬𝟬 𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙮𝙚𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙙𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝟭𝟬 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙨' 𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯. CipSoft, a game studio in Bavaria known for "Tibia," has reported record profits which benefit its more than 100 employees despite challenging market conditions. CEO Stephan Vogler expressed mixed feelings about celebrating the studio's financial success due to recent struggles faced by other game developers. The company successfully maintained its revenue boom from the COVID era into 2023, with revenues reaching €24.55 million, surpassing the previous year by over €2.5 million. CipSoft has the highest number of employees ever at over 100, making it one of the largest employers in the Bavarian games industry, and offers a substantial profit-sharing bonus of 85% of annual salaries to its employees. The studio's main revenue generator remains the online RPG "Tibia," especially popular in South America and Southeast Asia, while it has also secured federal funding for another game, "Persist Online," currently in pre-alpha testing. 🤔 What do you think, should companies pay bonuses in these difficult times or save the money as strategic buffer. Please let me know your thoughts in the comments 👇 The article is in German, I am sure Google will help you to translate it https://lnkd.in/gZwHm8fs   

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Like many companies in gaming and esports, Freaks 4U Gaming GmbH experienced tremendous growth during COVID, followed by post-pandemic reset coupled with the challenging macroeconomic environment worldwide. In the past couple of years, we have been operating in a challenging market that requires us to implement measures to safeguard the sustainability of our company.   Last year we already went through layoffs and put people on short-time work, which also has been in effect so far this year due to some expected projects not materializing. After careful consideration, we have unfortunately concluded the necessity of additional reduction in workforce to stabilize our business.   This decision has not been made lightly.   It is incredibly hard for me, because those affected didn’t do anything wrong, yet they are suffering from the consequences of cancelled projects and a very difficult market; it is also hard for me, having to part ways with people who share the same vision and aspirations, have worked incredibly hard and celebrated achievements alongside me, and have made invaluable contributions to building and shaping Freaks to where we are today. Our people are the essence of Freaks and what we stand for.   In the coming weeks, we will be openly sharing impacted positions and would appreciate you reaching out to us – whether you are actively recruiting or know any open positions – as we would love to connect you with some of the most talented, passionate professionals in our industry. They are people I am proud of and would personally vouch for.   While this transition is underway, we are working more closely than ever to ensure operational continuity. I appreciate the understanding and support from our clients and partners, we are committed to continue delivering value through best-in-class solutions as a full-service agency.   My most sincere appreciation goes to those who will be closing their chapter at Freaks. Thank you for being part of Freaks, part of my journey. 

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Gaming reports are back on the menu for Q3 2024 Data. Our Lead Investor The Games Fund makes it to the top list. Ilia Eremeev Maria Kochmola and the TGF team, Keep up the grind 🙌 InvestGame https://lnkd.in/dki4-QFR Another great free resource: https://lnkd.in/dWr3ApNe --- Key data: 📌 2024 market size keeps growing $188bn (+2.1% YoY). 📌 Market size expected to hit $223bn by 2029. 📌 More VC Funding in value but less in number of deals. 📌 Growth (aka Series B rounds) surpasses easily Early Stages funding. 📌 22% of Gaming VC funding goes to AI related project (bubble ? Only time will tell) --- Congrats to the Founders that raised funds this past quarter. Tough times build tough teams. Let's finish this year with a good push.

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Level up your gaming at HIT Games Conference 2024, scheduled for 6th September. It gathers 500+ global professionals for a deep dive into mobile, PC, console, VR, AR, and Web3 gaming trends. Time to meet experts & get ahead in the gaming industry! https://lnkd.in/dSJkKmHg #Event #EventAlert #technology #DailyDose #FollowUs #StayTuned #StayConnected #trending #trendingnow #trendingpost #explore #explorepage #TechDogs

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𝗨𝗔 𝗶𝘀 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱. 𝗛𝘆𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱. 𝗔𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲-𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗴𝗮𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱. Yet somehow, they’re still making 🚀 millions $$$ per month. How? 🤔👇 In this episode, Felix takes a deep dive into the latest trends in ad monetization within the gaming industry. 🎮 Key Highlights: • We uncover how games with low in-app purchase (IAP) revenue are thriving with ad-based models, proving there’s still massive potential in “dead” categories. • Ultra-casual games are rising, with a surge in innovation from regions like Vietnam, reshaping what’s possible in ad-driven games. • Detailed breakdowns of gameplay mechanics, ad strategies, and the secret sauce behind their continued success. 📊 Whether you’re in UA, monetization, or game design, this episode explores how to thrive in a constantly evolving industry. 👉 Tune in to learn how “dead” games are alive and kicking—and making millions. 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/dJh6R95p 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dEgiYHFa 🗣 Join the discussion on our Slack channel: https://lnkd.in/d8hfcDY4 🦄 Join the Brutally Honest newsletter: lancaric.substack.com Data based on Sensor Tower, thanks for the support! Jakub x two & a half gamers

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+60 million? I remember the first announcement we issued when I started at ESL in 2015. It was a total prize pool of 1M USD for FOUR(!) ESL One Tournaments combined. And let me tell you, these were breaking news back then! 😅 💸While this certainly wasn’t the beginning of esports and we can obviously compare this to tournaments back in 2002 when the winners received a mousepad and a firm handshake, I personally feel impressed how large the gap is, even between 2015 esports and 2024 esports. Especially in comparison to mainstream sports events - this shows how incredible far esports has come in the past 10 years. 🏅But what impresses me the most actually isn't the huge prize money after all. The new “Club Championship” format reminds me of another competition where people unite for the sake of the sport. An event that connects people all over the world and makes them cheer for disciplines they are probably not even the biggest fan of. Olympia positively influences cultural exchange between countries, improves infrastructure and unites people. I’m hopeful that the EWC will create a similar effect, putting players AND teams in the spotlight and creating synergies between different esports communities. 🗣So Ralf Reichert from Esports World Cup Foundation did an interview about the prize money and other facts regarding the Esports World Cup in DIE ZEIT, and I’m glad the article is addressing multiple sides of the story. Arguments that have to be discussed when we want our industry to truly become global but also connected with certain values we all share. I have little to no experience when it comes to countries and cultures in MENA so I'll head to Riyadh myself to get a firsthand look at the situation. #esports #ewc #saudiarabia #culturaldifferences #prizemoney

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Self-Publishing: Necessity or the Gold Recipe?  A Talk at the PLAY Creative Festival in Hamburg  Saturday, November 16th, 12.20 pm Once again, I’ll be sharing insights and thoughts in a talk titled “Indie Game Self-Publishing: Necessity or the Golden Recipe?” at the PLAY Festival in Hamburg. Since my primary focus is on games created by tiny indie teams or solo developers who self-publish, I’ll discuss the unique challenges and opportunities indie developers face, highlighting the delicate balance between making business decisions and seizing opportunities. Within the game industry, there’s space for “indie” products—a pathway to entrepreneurship, where the potential to build a small business is still very much alive. It’s a theme I find fascinating, and I’m excited to share my thoughts. I’ll explore topics like estimating the indie game market size, providing market insights with essential tools and tips, and learning from the journeys of small indie teams and solo developers. I’ll also share insights from recent indie game launches and pre-launch activities on Steam, touching on the ever-important “Wishlist,” sales expectations, what indie developers should consider as competitive products, and the role of collaborations within the indie community. Information about the event: https://lnkd.in/dBsX8qJP Info about the Talk: https://lnkd.in/dxWSS-vh *Photo credit: Kaunas Dev Meetup

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My missions for HIT Games in Berlin next week? 1. To expose the strategies for recruiting and retaining talent during the "turbulence". 2. To match the job opportunities with top talent. With the industry facing layoffs together with HIT Games Conference we are set to support the job seekers at the Career Area. Our mission is to help growing companies connect with talented professionals to build great products and fuel industry growth. Are you joining?

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Yes or no? Today during our team call, we discussed out our demo-build and brainstormed missions for our game. One teammate raised a valid concern: Would this idea be understood by future partners? Instead of seeing this as a roadblock, I view it as an opportunity. Successful partnerships thrive on understanding each other's perspectives. In essence, ensuring alignment between our creative vision and partners' expectations is key. By embracing this challenge, we're setting the stage for a strong and collaborative partnership. #GameDev #Partnerships

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Thrilled to announce today both the launch of The Metica Growth Loop and Justin Stolzenberg joining as a Co-Founder at Metica 🎉 Today, I’m incredibly excited to share that Justin Stolzenberg is joining Metica as a co-founder to help drive our vision forward alongside Puli Liyanagama, me and our incredible team. I’ve had the privilege of working with Justin for several years during his time as Co-Founder and CMO at Phoenix and Flaregames, and as far back as the European Games Group. With 22 years of gaming experience, Justin is a true UA optimization expert. His incredible track record speaks for itself: he’s never had a UA cohort that hasn’t paid back. 🔥 This level of precision and expertise makes him the perfect addition to help scale our vision. At Metica, our mission is to break down the silos between UA and In-game Monetization, with AI-driven Personalization at the heart of our strategy, to empower games to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Justin’s arrival marks a pivotal moment as we roll out The Metica Growth Loop —a cutting-edge approach which works as follows: ✔️ Personalization drives LTV uplift through optimized IAPs, LiveOps, Ads and Game Play. ✔️ Better UA cohorts are unlocked as the LTV data, combined with attribution logic and predictive models, power ROAS optimization through pLTV feedback that is sent back to the Ad networks. ✔️ This creates a Self-fulfilling loop as increased ROAS unlocks more and new UA cohorts, which, in turn generate more players, with even higher LTV, which provide more data, better Ad-buying, new funding opportunities… and so the cycle continues. ✔️ AI-driven optimization overcomes the complexity. True personalization and optimization isn’t humanly scalable, but AI and ML handle it effortlessly, turning challenges into opportunities. The result? A self-sustaining cycle where every player interaction drives growth. If you haven’t explored the Growth Loop yet, now’s the time. You can read our latest blog below. Justin’s expertise will further amplify the impact of this transformative framework, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have him on board to push the boundaries of game optimization and personalization. Link to more on The Growth Loop - https://lnkd.in/dffTrs9z Welcome to Metica, Justin—we’re excited for the journey ahead! 🎮✨ #Metica #Welcome #GamingGrowth #UAOptimization #LTV #ROAS #GrowthLoop

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After the Digital Markets Act entered into force, I received questions from non-EU game devs trying to determine if the rights and safeguards brought by the act also cover them. Leading global talent and some of the best public funding instruments are no longer the only key reasons to have a studio in the EU. If you have a studio in the EU, you have the right and means to fight back when a gatekeeper platform removes your game from an application store. Therefore, these Commission's preliminary conclusions on Apple's non-compliance and notification of further investigations on Apple's compliance with DMA are crucial. They demonstrate that the Commission is taking action to ensure that the new rights of game developers are correctly implemented and that the Commission is taking the feedback from stakeholders like EGDF seriously. If you have any further concerns about Apple's Core Technology fee, Apple's user journey to download and install games outside the Apple Appstore or the eligibility requirements for launching your own third-party application stores or making your games available for sideloading directly from the web, do not hesitate to share them with the Commission. If you are afraid of sharing the information directly, EGDF is more than happy to share feedback with the Commission on your behalf. https://lnkd.in/ghjth6P3

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#Update Earlier in 2024, NODWIN Gaming acquired a minority stake in Freaks 4U Gaming GmbH. On Friday, NODWIN Gaming announced plans to increase its stake from 13.51% to 100% in the Berlin-based global full-service gaming and esports agency. This strategic acquisition will be executed through NODWIN Gaming's Singapore-based subsidiary, NODWIN Gaming International Pte, via a share swap valued at up to INR 271 crore. The two companies have previously collaborated on high-profile projects like the PUBG Mobile Global Open and Esports World Cup Foundation (EWC), and have explored new business verticals together. This move aims to strengthen NODWIN's global presence and expand its influence in the gaming and esports industry. Read the story: https://ow.ly/Nr0R50SrxYE #NODWINGaming #Freaks4UGaming #EsportsAgency #GlobalGaming #GamingIndustry #StrategicAcquisition #GamingAcquisition #GamingNews #EsportsBusiness #GamingCommunity

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Investors: Gaming opportunities are on the rise! The last three years were a Period of Complacency: ▪ Record revenues during the pandemic ▪ Led to over-hiring & less innovation in every way, ▪ With unfortunate layoffs across many AAA studios as a result. The next three years are a Period of Disruption: ▪ New development pipelines with Generative AI & other tech ▪ New distribution platforms with Roblox, Fortnite & more coming ▪ New marketing approaches via Influencers & Community ▪ And the gaming audience is still growing, and global. Layoffs from AAA game studios led to experienced talent on the street, leading to new and interesting Game Dev Startups forming. From this period, multiple new billion dollar game companies will emerge. Recognizing OPPORTUNITY, notable dedicated game investment funds are being announced. THIS MONTH: $1 Billion of new capital for games ◾️ A16Z GAMES announced a 2nd gaming fund of $600 million, beyond previous $75M for Speedrun III applications. ◾️ BITKRAFT Ventures announced a 3rd gaming fund of $275 million. ◾️India’s Centre Court Capital announced new $42MM ◾️As did Turkey’s Laton Ventures with a new $35MM fund AGAINST BACKDROP OF: ◾️Disney investing $1.5 BILLION into Epic Games - gaming ecosystems are the future for the most valuable IP. ◾️Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund earmarking $38 BILLION of investment for gaming and esports - to future proof their economy. LOCALLY: ◾️Closer to home, Georgia benefits from abundant tech & creative talent, low cost of living, biz friendly environment, PLUS specific tax incentives for game development projects.  ◾️Based on my experience, it is a uniquely great place to make uniquely great games. ➨I’m personally very invested in a new Georgia-based game development venture, that will launch under the Ghost Gaming entity. ➨If you are a Qualified Investor and want to learn more about this or other gaming investment opportunities please hit me up directly. * Credit to Joost van Dreunen newsletter & CB Insights for chart Nabil Ismail Asante Bradford Grant Wainscott Andrew Chen Andrew Greenberg Jens Hilgers David Schulman Andrew Steinberg Shachar Oren Brian Zwerner Sean O'Brien Michael Cohn Frank Patterson Joe Yuan Christopher Klaus Randy Davidson Brian Grayson Julian Caggiano Travis S. #gaming #esports #investing #vc #angelinvesting

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Dear Stretch Network Partners, Please allow me to inform you about additional changes that will take place in the global network on July 8. 🍀 All Heads-up tables will be removed 🍀 Badugi cash tables will be removed 🍀 Sonic cash tables will become 6-max 🍀 The minimum buy-in for Sonic Omaha cash tables will be 20 BB 🍀 Sonic Omaha 7 card cash tables will be added These changes apply only to cash tables and only to our Global Network. In your local networks, you decide your product strategy, but we would be happy to assist you in managing your local networks as well. If you need our help, please contact us. The above-mentioned changes are part of the new strategy for the Stretch Network Global Network, which prioritizes the comfort of novice players and casual traffic to maintain the proper balance of our ecosystem between amateurs and professionals. Caring for the ecosystem of the Global Network is our priority. The changes we are implementing now and will continue to implement will significantly improve the user experience for your players, extend their LTV, ARPU, and, of course, Revenue.

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Simon Carless of GameDiscoverCo took a look into Steam's performance of 2024 thus far. Some Insights: ➤ Less than half of the Top 20 in terms of gross revenue are free-to-play, though many other titles offer paid content with IAP and or DLC such as Call of Duty HQ and Elden Ring. The Top 10 are an even split between F2P and premium. ➤ Seven new games on Steam in 2024 grossed over $40 million, with Helldivers 2 and Palworld being standout successes. ➤ Valve's own games, like Counter-Strike 2 and DOTA 2, continue to perform exceptionally well. ➤ When comparing new releases to older games, it's clear that competition is fierce. Only about 15% of new games made it into the $500k-$5m revenue range, while a significant portion of high earners came from older titles. This highlights the "long tail" of revenue, where older games continue to generate steady income over time. ➤ Manor Lords, published by Hooded Horse Inc. and made by solo dev Slavic Magic already made over $56m. You love to see it. Revenue Growth: Year on year, more games are grossing between $500k and $10m, though the total number of games on Steam has also increased by 22%. While there’s more money being spent on PC games, the bulk of revenue still comes from older, established titles. New games face stiff competition, and success often hinges on standing out in a crowded market.

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Inside the engine room of GAMOMAT 🚀     ✨ Ever wondered what fuels GAMOMATs growth in the fast-paced iGaming landscape?     GAMOMAT Development GmbH's very own founder and Managing Director, Dietmar Hermjohannes, sat down with SBC Leaders to unveil the secret sauce behind our thriving success.     From fostering a unique company culture, crafting diverse and engaging games, to ambitious plans of entering new markets with partners, get the insider's scoop on what's next for us.     👉 Dive into the full piece below.  #GAMOMAT #iGaming #SBCLeaders #insight #interview 

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🚀 Explore Real-World Examples from Mr.Beast x Top Troops Influencer campaign or Podcast ads for June's Journey as Alternative Mobile UA Channels for 2024 In today's fast-evolving mobile landscape, sticking solely to Google and Facebook for user acquisition isn't enough. With economic shifts demanding more scrupulous budgeting and quicker payback, diversification isn't just beneficial—it's necessary. 👉 Why Diversify? More channels mean more opportunities for testing, discovering potentially profitable new channels, and not putting all your eggs in one basket. When one channel stumbles, your strategy doesn’t have to. I’m excited to share insights on alternative mobile UA channels that are making waves in 2024. Also, thanks Media Bodies | Influencer Marketing Agency & Vibe.co for additional insights: Influencer Marketing: Discover how collaborations with mega-influencers like Mr. Beast (Jimmy Donaldson) can drive significant engagement and installs, as seen with the Top Troops by Socialpoint, which included custom assets and challenges to maximize ROI. Podcast Ads: Learn from successful podcast campaigns that utilize the trust and intimacy of this medium to boost app installs—insights backed by campaigns like those run by Tactile Games for Lily's Garden or Wooga for June's Journey. Connected TV (CTV): See how brands leverage CTV advertising to effectively reach massive audiences, highlighted by real-time optimized campaigns by Huuuge Games on different platforms. Strategic Partnerships: Gain insights from the unique partnership between Clash of Clans and Chess.com, which cross-promoted content to mutual benefit, boosting user bases significantly. Retail Media Networks: Get a peek at how major brands utilize spaces in retail media, from Amazon Advertising to newer platforms like inflight entertainment systems. These examples aren’t just theories but actionable strategies that have been implemented and tested in the market, offering you a clear pathway to diversify and strengthen your mobile UA efforts. 💬 I’d love to hear about your experiences with these or other innovative UA channels. Have they transformed your approach? What worked and what didn’t? Let’s exchange insights and learn together! 🔄 Engage, Comment, and Share this post to help others in our community stay ahead of the curve in mobile user acquisition strategies! 🔗 Dive deeper into each of these strategies by reading the full article here: The Art of Diversification: Alternative Mobile UA Channels for 2024 https://lnkd.in/dwjeKUNc #UserAcquisition #MobileMarketing #DigitalMarketing #RealWorldExamples #InfluencerMarketing #PodcastAds #ConnectedTV #StrategicPartnerships #TikTokMarketing #RetailMedia #MobileGames

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