5 features that drive revenue for mobile games in both the U.S. and China

Many features of top-grossing mobile games help them retain and monetize players, but which are most effective and have the most significant impact? To find out, GameRefinery analyzed the top 200 grossing iOS games in the U.S. and China, using feature-level analytics and market insights from our platform. We then broke down the five most impactful features in mobile games to show you how developers are using them to drive higher revenue.

Gachas in RPGs

Gachas (aka loot boxes) are increasingly common in mobile games, especially RPGs. Gachas tend to be tied into an extensive character roster, and there are multiple types in top-grossing RPGs. One of the most popular is event-based gachas sold with bulk discounts to encourage players to buy. AFK Arena regularly offers 800% value packs for passing specific milestones. Fire Emblem Heroes offers monthly one-use purchases that provide an “orb discount” along with a consumable bonus.