How successful startups engage users and grow their user base by using game mechanics?


3

I'm looking for case studies of startups that properly used game mechanics to drive user engagement and growth of their user base.

Users

asked May 7 '10 at 16:21
Blank
Pawel A
191 points

1 Answer


2

If by "case studies" you mean formal, written analyses this answer probably won't be of much help. If you're just looking for examples, the mobile / location-based social networking space is proving to be an interesting proving ground for game tactics. In particular, compare & contrast:

  • Google Latitude: no discernible game
  • Foursquare: lightweight game where users earn badges & mayorships for checking in at places
  • Gowalla: started out with a game where people could pick-up and drop virtual items at places. Later versions of the service don't seem to highlight this.
  • MyTown: almost all gameplay, with little / no real-world value (IMO).

Newcomers to the space like Burbn are also adding elements of accruing points & leveling up, although it's unclear to what end.

This is a look at one space - I'm sure there are many other good examples, as well.

answered May 8 '10 at 02:40
Blank
Joe
298 points

Your Answer

  • Bold
  • Italic
  • • Bullets
  • 1. Numbers
  • Quote
Not the answer you're looking for? Ask your own question or browse other questions in these topics:

Users