Greetings to all readers. In this article, we aim to assist companies, more specifically game developers, in selecting the perfect gifts for their drops to maximize profit and engage participants. If you are an influencer, we recommend that you read THIS article as it provides tips on gifts specifically for you.
Stage before game release
If your game has not yet been released and you need to create a buzz and make a loud announcement about it, we have suitable actions for this purpose, as well as tips on gifts for drops that will not allow potential players to forget about the upcoming novelty. In this case, we recommend either a gift with universal value, such as Steam gift cards, or early access if your project allows for it. Additionally, game copies or status items that may not provide real advantages but serve as pleasant reminders of participation in the drop (titles, mounts of different colors, skins, etc.) will also make excellent gifts.
What to give during the release?
The answer here is obvious, of course - game copies for the winner and their friends. However, if you do not wish to give away the game for free, you can offer add-ons (season pass) as a gift and only give them to those who have already purchased the game (this can be set as a separate action). If your project includes premium or VIP-status, any customization elements (character skins, weapon skins, land, houses, mounts) can also make excellent gifts. A good strategy would be to give your winner the freedom to choose what they want by gifting them specialized currency (cash currency) that they can use to purchase in-game items of their choice. Alternatively, you can entice them with uniqueness, such as achievements or items that they can boast about for years to come in front of other players.
And what to give as a gift if the game has been out for a while?
It depends on who your target audience is for your drop. Are you looking to attract new users or reward and energize your loyal audience? In the former case, you could once again give away game keys. For instance, in 2022 Electronic Arts made their Sims 4 game completely free, thereby raising money from sales of add-ons, as new players got hooked and wanted more. But you could be even more generous and gift the lucky ones not just the game, but all of its expansions. However, if you want to reward your game's loyal players, chances are they already have the game and all of its expansions? So what gift should you use to entice them? Especially if your game does not involve cosmetic decorations or additional currency? Then give merch. Your company's personal merch, game merch, and if you have neither, consider creating them. A true fan of your project will be thrilled to receive a poster with developer signatures or an exclusive figurine.
Whatever you choose, remember that your goal is not just to give a gift that you can afford or that is beneficial to your company, but one that the drop participants and your potential (or existing) players will really want. This is how you can achieve an unprecedented response, and the results of the drop will exceed all your expectations, and perhaps your imagination will become an additional topic for press and influencer mentions. In any case, we wish you successful campaigns!
