The battle pass feature has taken the mobile gaming world by storm, offering players a unique way to unlock rewards and new content. As game developers continue to incorporate this monetization trend into their apps, it's essential to understand what makes a successful battle pass and how to implement it effectively.

What is a Battle Pass?

A battle pass is a type of subscription that provides players with exclusive rewards and new content once purchased. This pass usually comes in the form of battle pass seasons, lasting anywhere from 15 days to several months. During this time, players can progress through the game, unlocking as many battle pass rewards as possible.

Battle Pass Rewards

A well-designed battle pass should offer great value for money, providing desirable rewards that keep players engaged. Some potential rewards include:

  • Cosmetic items (skins, outfits)
  • Hard and soft currency
  • Boosts
  • Loot boxes
  • Characters
  • Access to new levels or game modes

While not all battle passes are paid, most games offer both free and paid versions. The free version provides a taste of the "real" battle pass experience, enticing players to upgrade to the paid version for the full premium gameplay experience.

Implementing Battle Passes Successfully

The battle pass is not just a monetization feature but also a valuable retention and engagement tool. When implemented correctly, it can have numerous positive effects on your game, regardless of its genre or gameplay style. To achieve this, consider the following best practices:

  • Offer a free version to give players a taste of the premium experience
  • Provide a clear reward structure with achievable goals
  • Make sure rewards are desirable and aligned with player interests
  • Monitor player progress and adjust the battle pass system accordingly

The Battle Pass Trend

The battle pass feature has come a long way since its inception in Fortnite. This trend has spread rapidly across various genres, from action-packed games like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile to strategy games like Rise of Kingdoms.

In 2021, the list of games utilizing battle passes became extensive, with many game developers recognizing its potential as a key monetization trend for mobile games.

Examples in Top-Grossing Mobile Games

To understand why battle passes work so well for different games, let's analyze their implementation in four top-grossing mobile games: Diablo Immortal, Clash of Clans, and Call of Duty: Mobile.

Diablo Immortal Battle Pass

Diablo Immortal's battle pass system is linked to seasons, with each season lasting a month. Players earn Battle Points by completing various activities and quests, which increase their Battle Pass Rank. There are different battle passes in Diablo Immortal, including a free track and paid tracks that unlock better rewards.

Clash of Clans Battle Pass

Clash of Clans introduced its battle pass feature, causing revenues to skyrocket 145% within the first week. The game's Gold Pass offers a range of rewards, including gold, special hero skins, boosts, and Season Bank upgrades.

Call of Duty: Mobile Battle Pass

Call of Duty: Mobile integrates its battle pass immediately after players complete their first battle. Players can see a free and paid rewards track, making it easy to choose the best option for them.

By understanding how different games implement their battle passes, you can develop an effective strategy for your own mobile app. Remember to focus on providing great value for money, offering desirable rewards that keep players engaged. With the right approach, your game can benefit from this popular monetization trend and drive growth in the competitive mobile gaming market.