Kitcatt Nohr Digitas

Aren't we all? Wanna know how to do it?

Well this article has some insightful tips on how to become the company that makes the #1 paid app in the world.

Some of it's a no-brainer but it's well worth a read.

According to Peter Vesterbacka of Rovio (creators of Angry Birds, currently the #1 paid app in the world):

1) Use simple gameplay mechanics

Obviously, the easier your game is to play, the wider your audience will be. (Include people who don't consider themselves gamers).

2) Test your game, revise, re-test, repeat, and so on...

Simple, addictive gameplay that provides enough challenges is what you want, and there's no magical formula for that. You have to play it yourself to find out.

3) Remember that it's all about design

Character design and the look of your game is key. Think big. Create characters with widespread appeal and expand your empire to include t-shirts, plush toys, board games, property tie-ins, television shows and movies.

4) Be in constant dialogue with your fans

The best way to be a human brand is to be human. Interact and engage with your fans. When a six year old fan designs and sends you a level, build it.

5) Give yourself a really cool title on your business card, like "Mighty Eagle".

And the most important step of all...

6) First, create 51 other games that are not as successful.

Yes, Angry Birds was Rovio's 52nd game. That's not exactly overnight success. It is interesting to note how media organically contributed to the game's global success. It was gaining popularity in Finland (Rovio's homeland) and I believe it was a Finnish athlete, sidelined due to injury, who commented in a TV interview that at least she could still play Angry Birds. Popularity spread across Europe and then hit the States.