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How much does it cost to build a video game app?

Standard price for a video game app: $100,000

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What is a video game app?

A video game is a mobile or desktop application that enables users to play games on their mobile device or computer. Users typically use the app to view game progress, view game scores, send messages about gameplay, and track high scores.

Video game apps have most in common with most other entertainment apps, such as streaming music and video apps, podcast apps, and virtual reality games. Popular examples of video games include Fortnite, Minecraft, and NBA2K.

Here are some recent video game app examples built with Xperts:

  • Multiple mobile and web games built and launched in parallel.

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What is the typical cost to build a video game app?

A video game app usually costs $100,000 to build. However, the total cost can be as low as $50,000 or as high as $150,000. A video game app with a low number of features (also known as a "minimum viable product", or MVP) will be more affordable than an app that includes all intended functionality.

For example, here are some recent video game app price quotes from Xperts:

  • $100,000

Here are some considerations that may impact the cost of a app:

How long does it take to build a video game app?

A video game app usually takes 1,333 hours to build. However, a video game app can be built in as few as 667 hours, or in as many as 2,000 hours. The exact timeline mostly depends on how complicated your app is. As a general rule, it will take longer if you require highly custom designs, niche features, or non-standard release platforms.

For example, the most recent video game apps built with Xperts received the following hourly estimates:

  • 1,333

How to successfully grow your video game application

Video game apps can grow rapidly by using an aggressive monetization strategy that makes it easy for users to purchase virtual items. By focusing on the in-app purchasing experience, video game apps can derive a high level of revenue from each user without having to invest heavily in marketing. Developers also need to offer a unique and engaging gameplay experience that keeps users coming back again and again. This means that developers should plan their games with a long lifespan in mind, rather than attempting to create a single hit title and then move on to another project.

Risks and challenges of building a video game application

A video game faces several legal risks related to the development of original content, the distribution of third-party intellectual property, and the collection of player data. In order to comply with copyright laws, a video game should include a disclaimer informing players of ownership issues. You should also consider using a digital rights management system to prevent unauthorized access to your app. If you collect user data, you will need to ensure that your app complies with applicable privacy laws.

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