Use in-app feature to build mobile app engagement

Aug 22 / Dominik Królikowski

In-app messages are a powerful tool within mobile apps, allowing marketers to engage users with targeted, contextually relevant notifications while they’re using the app. Unlike push notifications, which are sent externally, in-app messages are triggered by user behavior or specific conditions within the app. These messages can be used for various purposes, such as promoting offers, providing tips, or reminding users of unfinished actions, like abandoned carts. They offer a non-intrusive way to enhance user experience and drive engagement.

 

An interesting idea might be to use the inapp mechanism to introduce a gamification element into mobile applications. Gamification in mobile apps involves integrating game-like elements into non-gaming apps to enhance user engagement, motivation, and retention. This strategy uses techniques like points, badges, leaderboards, challenges, and rewards to make the app experience more enjoyable and interactive.

 

Why small retro games are popular among mobile users?

 

Small retro games are popular among mobile users due to their nostalgic appeal, simple gameplay, and unique pixelated aesthetics. These games offer a quick, accessible gaming experience that doesn't require much time or resources, making them ideal for on-the-go entertainment. The familiar, straightforward mechanics also provide an enjoyable break from more complex modern games, attracting both older players who remember the originals and younger ones who appreciate the retro style.

 

Let's start with popular examples

 

The Memory Card Game challenges players to find matching pairs of cards by flipping them over one at a time. The game requires concentration and memory skills as players attempt to recall the positions of the cards to make successful matches.

 

Business Use: This game can be used as an engagement tool by integrating it into onboarding processes or promotional campaigns. For example, a company could use the Memory Card Game to familiarize new users with its products or services by having cards that represent different features or benefits. Completing the game could unlock special offers or discounts, thereby incentivizing users to engage more deeply with the app or platform. Additionally, it provides a fun and interactive way to keep users entertained, increasing their time spent within the app.

 

A Quiz Game with a Timer involves answering a series of questions within a set time limit. The timer adds an element of urgency, making the game more exciting and competitive. Players are typically scored based on the number of correct answers and the speed with which they respond.

 

Business Use: This game can be utilized to drive engagement and educate users about new products or features. By incorporating questions related to your business or industry, you can test users' knowledge while subtly promoting your brand. Offering rewards or leaderboards for high scores can further incentivize participation. For instance, users who achieve high scores could receive exclusive content, discounts, or entry into a sweepstakes, creating a sense of competition and encouraging users to return and play again.

 

The Rock Paper Scissors Game is a classic hand game where players choose one of three options - rock, paper, or scissors - to compete against an opponent. The game is simple but relies on strategy and chance, with the outcome determined by the rules of which choice beats the other.

 

Business Use: This game can serve as a fun and interactive tool for engaging users in marketing campaigns or special events. For instance, companies can use Rock Paper Scissors as a quick, engaging way to offer instant rewards or discounts. Users could play against the app, with winning rounds unlocking special promotions or incentives. The simplicity and fast-paced nature of the game make it an ideal candidate for driving user interaction and fostering a playful brand experience.

 

The Snake Game is a classic arcade game where players control a snake that grows longer as it eats food while avoiding collisions with the walls or its own tail. The goal is to achieve the highest score possible before the snake crashes.

 

Business Use: The Snake Game can be a compelling engagement tool for businesses looking to captivate users with a nostalgic experience. It can be incorporated into app promotions or reward programs, where achieving certain scores could unlock exclusive offers or benefits. Additionally, businesses can use the game as part of seasonal or themed campaigns, with customized game elements that align with current promotions or brand messaging.
Integrating interactive JavaScript games into your app can significantly enhance user engagement and drive business objectives.

How games can serve as effective engagement tools?

  • Increase User Engagement: Interactive games provide a fun and immersive way to keep users engaged, increasing their time spent on your mobile app.


  • Expand Personalization: Mobile games enhances user engagement by tailoring gameplay, rewards, and content based on individual preferences and behaviors.


  • Enhance Brand Promotion: Games can be customized to promote your products or services, making brand interactions more memorable and enjoyable.


  • Improve User Retention: Offering rewards or incentives through games can encourage users to return and interact more frequently with your app.


  • Get Valuable Data Insights: Games provide opportunities to gather data on user behavior, preferences, and engagement, helping to refine marketing strategies and enhance user experience.


  • Respond in Real-Time: In-app games allow you to react immediately to user behaviour, maintaining their engagement at every stage of their relationship with the brand and their journey through the sales funnel.


It's crucial to design the game to be simple and engaging, ensuring it integrates seamlessly with the in-app message without disrupting the user experience. You schould consider:

  • Objective Alignment: Ensure that the game aligns with your business objectives. This could include driving user engagement, increasing app usage, or promoting a new feature or product.


  • Target Audience: Consider whether your target audience will appreciate and engage with the game. Customizing the game’s theme or content to your audience’s preferences can enhance its effectiveness.


  • Message Timing: Plan the timing of the in-app message. For example, sending it when users are most engaged with your app or during special events can increase its impact.

 

The game should be optimized for performance and responsiveness to work well across different devices and screen sizes. Providing clear instructions and rewards for playing can further incentivize user participation.

 

The game can be used creatively in various scenarios, such as enhancing onboarding, promoting special events, or re-engaging lapsed users. Ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations and content appropriateness is also essential. By thoughtfully implementing these elements, you can leverage the game as an effective tool for increasing user interaction, promoting your brand, and achieving your business objectives.

Dominik Królikowski

Business Value Services & Marketing Director