CrazyGames Basic Launch: The Metrics That Matter
Welcome to the Basic Launch program. This is your first step toward launching a hit game on CrazyGames.
This guide explains the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) we use to measure player engagement during a two-week test period. Our goal is simple: use this data to give your game the best possible chance of success.
Let's get you launched.
The process and your dashboard
- Live data: You can track your game's performance on your developer dashboard, which updates daily. Day 1 Retention naturally takes an extra day to appear.
- Updates: You can update your game at any time. Updates are automatically approved, and their impact appears in your data with the daily dashboard refresh.
- Zero setup: KPI tracking is automatic. No SDK is needed for Basic Launch, so you can focus on your game. If you choose to integrate the SDK during Basic Launch, ads remain disabled.
- The outcome: Games with strong KPIs can move on to Full Launch, where you'll integrate our SDK for monetization.
1. Average play time
What it is: The average time a player spends in your game in a single session.
Why it matters: Longer sessions mean players are hooked on your core loop.
Benchmark: Successful titles often see 10+ minutes of average play time.
How to improve it
- Build a rewarding loop: Make the core actions feel fun and satisfying.
- Set clear goals: Ensure players always know what to do next.
- Pace your content: Introduce new mechanics gradually to keep things interesting.
- Nail the difficulty: Create a curve that's challenging but fair.
2. Day 1 retention
What it is: The percentage of players who come back the day after their first session.
Why it matters: Retention proves your game is memorable and gives players a reason to return.
Benchmark: Strong games often achieve 10-15% Day 1 Retention.
How to improve it
- Add meaningful progression: Give players a reason to grow (levels, unlocks, and upgrades).
- Create daily hooks: Use simple login bonuses or daily quests.
- Save player progress: Lost progress means lost players.
- Polish everything: Bugs and rough edges are major reasons players don't return.
3. Conversion
What it is: The percentage of players who play for at least one minute after clicking Play.
Why it matters: This is a technical health check. Low conversion usually means players are leaving before your game starts, often due to slow load times.
Benchmark: Top-performing titles typically convert 80%+ of players, load in under 10 seconds, and have a build size below 20 MB.
How to improve it
- Keep your build small: Aim for less than 20 MB.
- Load content dynamically: Get the first level running first, then load the rest in the background. If you're using Unity, we've got a guide to Addressables.
- Get to gameplay fast: Cut long intros so players can play within seconds. Use this guide for practical loading optimizations.
Key takeaways
Think of these KPIs as a compass, not a final grade. They help point your game in the right direction.
The stronger your numbers during Basic Launch, the more momentum you'll have heading toward a full and successful release on CrazyGames. We're here to help you win.