Helping Madmind Studio to sell directly to players with Web Store

Introduction:

Madmind Studio, known for its immersive horror games like Agony and Succubus, has taken a significant step in enhancing its sales strategy by partnering with Fungies.io. This collaboration has allowed Madmind to establish a dedicated web store for selling games directly to players, bypassing traditional platforms like Steam, which often impose strict guidelines and high commission fees. This article explores how Fungies.io’s no-code drag-and-drop store builder and integrated payment solutions have empowered Madmind Studio to increase sales and gain greater control over player data.

The Challenge of Selling on Steam

For game developers, Steam represents a massive distribution channel, but it comes with its own set of challenges. The platform typically takes a 30% cut of all sales, which can significantly impact the profitability of indie studios like Madmind. Moreover, the nature of Madmind’s games—often dark and controversial—can make it difficult to navigate Steam’s content policies. As a result, the need for an alternative sales channel became clear.

Enter Fungies.io

Fungies.io offers a comprehensive solution tailored for game developers looking to sell directly to consumers. Their platform provides a no-code website builder that allows studios like Madmind to create a fully customized storefront in minutes. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for teams focused on game development rather than web design.

The no-code aspect of Fungies.io’s platform means that Madmind Studio could set up its web store without needing extensive technical expertise. The drag-and-drop interface allows for quick customization, enabling the studio to reflect its brand identity while providing an intuitive shopping experience for players. This user-friendly approach reduces the time and resources typically spent on web development.

Integrated Payment Solutions

Fungies.io’s storefront comes with integrated payment processing through Stripe, supporting over 250 payment methods including credit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay. This flexibility ensures that players can purchase games using their preferred payment method, which can lead to higher conversion rates.

By establishing a web store through Fungies.io, Madmind Studio has successfully implemented a direct-to-consumer sales model. This shift allows them to retain up to 90% of their sales revenue, compared to the significantly lower percentage received through Steam. Additionally, this model enables Madmind to offer exclusive deals and bundles that might not be feasible on larger platforms.

Ownership of Player Data

One of the most significant advantages of using Fungies.io is the ability for Madmind Studio to collect and manage player data directly. Unlike traditional marketplaces where player information is often obscured or inaccessible, the web store allows Madmind to gather email addresses and other valuable data points. This information is crucial for future marketing efforts, including upselling and cross-selling other titles in their portfolio.With access to player data, Madmind can engage in targeted marketing campaigns that promote new releases or special offers tailored specifically to their audience. This level of personalization can lead to increased customer loyalty and repeat purchases.

Fungies.io not only simplifies the backend processes but also enhances the overall user experience for players visiting Madmind’s web store.

The ability to search for specific games or content within the store makes it easier for players to find what they are looking for quickly. A well-implemented search function can significantly improve user satisfaction and reduce bounce rates.

A smooth checkout process is critical in minimizing cart abandonment rates. Fungies.io ensures that players can complete their purchases quickly and efficiently, which is essential for converting interest into sales.

Customizable Storefront Themes

Madmind Studio can choose from various themes and templates provided by Fungies.io, allowing them to create a visually appealing storefront that aligns with their brand aesthetics. This customization helps create a cohesive brand experience across all touchpoints.

With the launch of their web store, Madmind Studio has opened new avenues for marketing their games.

By optimizing their web store for search engines, Madmind can attract organic traffic from players searching for horror games or specific titles. This approach reduces reliance on paid advertising while increasing visibility among potential customers.

Fungies.io supports social media integration, allowing Madmind Studio to promote its games directly through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Engaging with fans on social media not only drives traffic to the web store but also fosters community building around their games.

With direct access to player emails, Madmind can implement email marketing campaigns that inform players about new releases, updates, or exclusive offers. Personalized emails can significantly enhance engagement rates and drive sales.

Conclusion

The partnership between Madmind Studio and Fungies.io has proven transformative in how the studio approaches game sales. By leveraging Fungies’ no-code storefront builder and integrated payment solutions, Madmind has successfully established a direct-to-consumer sales channel that enhances profitability while providing greater control over player relationships.As more indie developers seek alternatives to traditional distribution platforms like Steam, Fungies.io stands out as a viable solution that empowers studios to take charge of their sales strategies. With increased ownership of player data and customizable storefront options, game developers can focus on what they do best: creating engaging gaming experiences while maximizing their revenue potential directly from consumers.

Products used:

• Free Game Website builder: customizable fonts and colors meant that Abrams Studios could adjust the branding to their own
• Stripe integration natively: payouts are done once in 24h – so the studio has ongoing operations capital to continue building new games
• Developer Dashboard: everytime an user logs in or leaves his/her email in the cart – their info get recorded and users can be exported to CSV list for any future marketing campaigns