Reaching audiences through different platforms

Platform Accessibility and Audience Reach

One of the key strategies for reaching audiences in the video game industry is through maintaining platform accessibility across multiple devices such as consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
Cross-platform games, those developed to run on multiple devices, are designed to maximize the audience reach. Popular games such as Fortnite and Minecraft are prominent examples.
The more systems a game is available on, the wider its potential reach. By contrast, exclusive games are made only for a specific platform, usually to boost console sales or enhance platform value.

With the advent of the internet, digital distribution platforms such as Steam, Epic Games Store, Google’s Stadia, Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Network have become vital in reaching audiences worldwide.
These platforms allow developers to distribute their games directly to consumers, bypassing physical stores. This significantly broadens the potential audience reach and allows for global distribution with ease.

Mobile gaming has seen a massive surge due to its convenience and accessibility, with games reaching audiences that traditional consoles or PCs might not.
Mobile games can reach a broad spectrum of audiences, from casual to core gamers, due to the omnipresence of smartphones and tablets in today’s world.
The mobile platform has also seen the success of ‘freemium’ games, which are free to download and play but offer in-app purchases for skins, power-ups, and more.

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube play a crucial role in reaching audiences, promoting new content, and fostering online communities.
Game developers often use these platforms to announce updates, run competitions, and respond to user feedback, cultivating a sense of community and engagement among fans.
Platforms like Twitch and YouTube are also used for livestreams and Let’s Play videos, forming a vital part of video game culture where fans can share experiences, tips, and strategies.

Esports have become a significant focus area for video game developers to reach competitive audiences. Games designed with Esports in mind can garner a loyal and active fan base.
Live events like video game expos, conferences, and tournaments are also a unique way to reach audiences, offering hands-on experiences, reveals and announcements, and interactions among fans and developers.