Monetization · mobile games
Rewarded ad
A video ad the player chooses to watch in exchange for an in-game reward, such as extra currency, a revive or a doubled prize.
Also called: rewarded video, rewarded ads, watch an ad, ad reward, rv
A rewarded ad is opt-in. The game offers a reward, the player decides whether a 15 to 30 second ad is worth it, and the reward arrives when the ad finishes. Because the player chooses, rewarded ads are generally less disliked than interstitial ads that interrupt play.
They let free players access things that payers buy: a second chance, an energy refill, a bigger level reward. That makes them a bridge between a game's free and paid economies, and a way to earn from players who will never make a purchase.
Apple's App Store Review Guidelines allow apps to reward users for actions such as watching an ad, which is why the pattern is standard on both major mobile stores.
In mobile games
Common placements are the end-of-level reward (watch to double it), the fail screen (watch to continue), an empty energy bar, and a daily free spin or chest. Many games also sell a remove-ads purchase that leaves rewarded ads in place because players want them.
What to watch for
- Offering an ad on every screen. The reward feels cheaper and players start skipping the offer.
- Rewards that do not arrive, or ads that fail to load after the player chose to watch. Both break trust quickly.
