The world of web gaming is evolving fast, and developers who adapt can thrive. Games on web platforms offer great accessibility and reach, making them a vital part of the industry. Lorenzo De Carlo, Senior Game Producer at Azerion Gaming, shares his insider knowledge on how to navigate this landscape, maximize monetization, and engage millions of players. From the shift to HTML5 to the power of web publishing, discover the winning strategies behind successful browser-based games.
The Shift from Flash to HTML5: Adapting to Change
The gaming industry has undergone a massive evolution over the past two decades, driven by technological advancements and shifting player preferences. Lorenzo witnessed this transformation firsthand, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in game development. The transition from Flash to HTML5 was a pivotal moment, forcing developers to rethink their approach and ensure their games remained accessible across various devices, ultimately shaping the modern web gaming landscape.
“When Flash stopped working, we saw a rapid shift to mobile devices. We had to evolve fast. I ported over 300 Flash games to HTML5, ensuring a seamless transition for users, even replicating tiny bugs and pixelated graphics.”
Classic web games, some over 20 years old, continue to attract millions of players today, demonstrating the timeless appeal and accessibility of browser-based gaming.
The Advantages of Web Gaming
Releasing games on web offer a powerful way for developers to reach larger audiences without relying on app stores. Unlike mobile apps that require downloads and installations, browser-based games are instantly accessible. Players can jump right in without delays, making web games a seamless and convenient choice.
“The browser was here before apps — it’s an incredibly powerful tool, reaching expanded audiences across multiple platforms.”
For developers, the web is more than just a platform — it’s a game-changer. Publishing games online boosts visibility, expands reach, and drives revenue beyond traditional app stores. With no need for costly user acquisition campaigns, web games remain discoverable, always up to date, and ready to play with just one click.
“By bringing my game Merge Hospital to the web, I increased my audience, brand awareness, and revenue — beyond just the app stores.”
Secrets to Thriving on the Web
Having experience is key when learning how to make web browser games.To succeed in web gaming, developers need to focus on a few key areas. Lorenzo outlined five essential strategies for maximizing engagement, retention, and revenue.
1. Cross-Platform Compatibility
Ensuring that a game works seamlessly across devices is crucial for maximizing reach.
“Test your game on major browsers and resolutions. Optimize for both touch and mouse/keyboard. The more devices your game works on, the bigger your audience.”
2. Sequels, Prequels, and Spin-offs
Instead of making a single large game, developers can benefit from smaller, iterative releases.
“Don’t make games too big — iterate, test, and expand instead. Small releases mean lower costs and faster development, reducing your time-to-market.”
A perfect example is the Vex series. Starting as a simple platformer, it evolved into multiple versions, each offering new mechanics and experiences.
“Vex started as a platform game. Now, there are Vex 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8, and spin-offs like Vex Challenges and Vex X3M — where I branched Vex into new genres and our stickman now rides bikes!
3. Engagement is Key
Engagement drives retention. Lorenzo shared engagement tips like shorter levels, smooth user experiences, and daily challenges and progression systems that encourage long-term player investment.
“Short levels (1-5 minutes) boost engagement and retention. A strong first-time user experience (FTUE) keeps players hooked. Features like daily challenges and progression keep players coming back for more.”
4. Balanced Monetization
Advertising is essential for free-to-play browser games, but balance is key to ensuring a smooth player experience. Understanding how web games make money is crucial for developers looking to optimize their monetization strategy.
“Rewarded ads are the sweet spot — players opt in, enjoy the reward, and you generate revenue without being intrusive.”
Shorter levels create more opportunities for ad placements, enhancing revenue without disrupting gameplay.
“Shorter levels mean more mid-roll ad opportunities, increasing earnings per session.”
5. Power of Web Publishing
Having high-quality assets, targeted audiences, and effective promotional materials is crucial for web success.
“Good news! Your only marketing task on the web is to create strong promotional materials for your target audience. The most challenging and expensive part — traffic acquisition — is handled by publishers.”
For developers looking to simplify the distribution and monetization process, platforms like GameDistribution offer valuable solutions.
“Publishing through solutions like GameDistribution simplifies distribution and monetization, letting developers focus on what they do best —creating great games.”
Final Takeaway: The G.A.M.E.S. Formula
Lorenzo turned the keys to success into the formula G.A.M.E.S.:
- G: Gateway to the web browser is a partnership with GameDistribution
- A: Accessibility ensures reach
- M: Monetization must respect the player experience
- E: Engagement keeps players loyal
- S: Sequels and spin-offs sustain momentum
“Success on the web is about accessibility, engagement, smart monetization, and leveraging sequels. I call it G.A.M.E.S.”
Join the Future of Web Gaming
For developers looking to expand their reach, optimize revenue, and streamline distribution, GameDistribution offers a trusted and proven platform. Through strategic partnerships, developers can unlock new growth opportunities and maximize their game’s potential.
To explore how GameDistribution can help you scale your web gaming success, check out our developer partnership page: GameDistribution Developer Partnership
For a deeper dive into Lorenzo De Carlo’s full presentation, you can access it here: Download Presentation.
