Why Gamification is Taking Over the World

What is it about gaming that so many of us, young and old, love? Perhaps it’s that sweet satisfaction upon a win, the virtual risks or quite simply some much-needed escapism from the modern world? It’s likely to be a combination of the three, but one thing we can all agree on is:

1. Gaming is fun.
2. Games provide an excellent way for businesses to connect with clients. 

Take McDonald’s, for example. They jumped on the gaming bandwagon several years ago with the introduction of their Monopoly prize game. Players purchase their fast food, peel off the Monopoly sticker and either win an instant treat or collect more stickers in an attempt to win even better prizes. What effect does this game have on customers? They keep choosing McDonald’s for their fast food cravings, of course, hoping to complete their Monopoly sticker collection and grab a grand prize. 

Online Games

Online games, such as those provided by Gold Rush Slots, are the perfect forms of escapism and are an excellent way to advertise your brand. If you’ve played the free versions of online games before, you’ve probably noticed the in-app ads, such as those in Candy Crush Saga or Scrabble Go.

Gamification might sound a little complex, but it really doesn’t have to be, and the results can be immensely rewarding. Follow our tips for giving your advertising strategy a gamification boost.

Make it Relevant to your Brand

Whatever your game or giveaway, make sure it’s connected to your brand somehow. Perhaps you own a cosmetic store but can’t afford to give away an expensive facial moisturiser, but maybe you can offer a mini-facial instead. 

Keep It Simple

You don’t need complicated, state-of-the-art games. What about simple, classic games such as word searches, spot the difference or Snakes & Ladders? Games that easily understood can have a greater impact. Drive interest by excluding complex rules or a multitude of steps to follow; this could be a simple puzzle, word jumble, trivia question or scratch card, for instance. 

Provide Something of Worth

Many people play games with the end result in mind. It’s always nice to receive a prize, and this doesn’t have to be expensive. It could even be the valuable and much-desired answer to a tricky riddle!

Celebrate Winners & Participants

The advertising doesn’t need to end when your game does. Keep the excitement by sharing a congratulatory message and photo, and contact everyone who participated offering them a small exclusive discount for your product or service as a thank you for participation. This keeps customers feeling valued and keeps your businesses being talked about. 

Final Thoughts

The most successful marketing campaigns are when both the business and the client benefits. If you’re getting social media shares whilst customers are benefitting from prizes or a discount, for example, the competition or game is fun for everyone and a win-win situation. Keep it engaging, inject games where you can and you could boost your customer base substantially.