Love is in the Game: How In-Game Advertising is Winning Hearts this Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is no longer just about chocolates and flowers—it’s also making waves in the gaming world. With more than 3 billion active players worldwide (Newzoo, 2023), gaming has become one of the most powerful platforms for brands to connect emotionally with their audience on key dates like Valentine’s Day.
In-game advertising, which integrates branded content directly into the gaming experience, has proven to be an ideal strategy for building authentic connections with consumers. Unlike traditional formats, it doesn’t interrupt gameplay. Instead, it blends naturally into the game, resulting in 20% higher brand recall compared to display ads (Mindshare, 2023).
Why Should Brands Embrace Gaming on Valentine’s Day?
Gaming is an emotional experience.
65% of players report experiencing positive emotions such as joy, achievement, and social connection while gaming (Deloitte, 2022). Valentine’s Day is the perfect moment to amplify these feelings with creative brand experiences.
A broad and diverse audience.
The gamer demographic has evolved. Today, 57% of gamers are over 25 years old, and 44% are women (GlobalWebIndex, 2024). During themed events like Valentine’s Day, these audiences are actively seeking unique experiences, offering brands a golden opportunity to engage with them.
Gamification boosts engagement.
Gamified campaigns drive 72% more engagement than traditional advertising (Forbes, 2023). By offering mini-games, challenges, or Valentine-themed rewards, brands can create lasting emotional connections with their audience.
The Power of In-Game Advertising
Integrating branded content into gaming not only boosts engagement but also enhances the overall user experience. According to AdColony, 84% of gamers prefer to see in-game ads rather than disruptive external ads (AdColony, 2023).
With over 25 years of experience in developing gamified experiences for brands, Gameloft for brands specializes in designing creative, respectful campaigns that resonate with players and help brands win hearts from the first click.
Want to learn more about how to connect with your audience through gaming? Visit www.gameloft.com/forbrands.
