Forge Launches GameLink and PayLink to Boost Game Developer Revenue

In an era where game developers seek closer connections with their players, Forge introduces two groundbreaking tools: GameLink and PayLink. These offerings are designed to empower studios and publishers to build direct-to-consumer experiences that unify purchase options, content, and community engagement in one centralized, mobile-optimized hub.

Forge GameLink acts like a specialized Link-in-Bio platform tailored specifically for games. Unlike traditional static websites, it offers dynamic, customizable landing pages where developers can showcase trailers, FAQs, social links, and even list game SKUs for purchase. This hub can be launched within minutes, providing a seamless way to manage and refresh content regularly while gathering analytics on player interactions.

Complementing GameLink, Forge PayLink integrates directly into existing in-app purchase flows, enabling developers to offer alternative payment options without disrupting the checkout experience. This is especially significant for mobile games on iOS, where developers can now bypass the App Store’s mandatory payment system, potentially increasing revenue by up to 35%.

This shift comes on the heels of a landmark legal ruling allowing Epic Games to promote and sell Fortnite outside the Apple App Store, signaling a broader industry trend toward direct payment control and reduced platform fees. Forge’s tools capitalize on this momentum by providing developers with easy-to-use solutions that enhance revenue streams and deepen player relationships.

Beyond payment facilitation, Forge GameLink integrates with the Forge Direct suite, offering upgrades to full-featured community portals with quests, loyalty rewards, and direct commerce capabilities. This holistic approach helps studios boost player retention and engagement by creating vibrant, interactive ecosystems around their games.

For indie developers, the ability to bypass traditional app store fees and maintain direct communication with players through email and community features is a game-changer. While some trade-offs exist, such as exclusion from top-grossing charts, many smaller studios stand to gain significantly from increased revenue and control over their publishing and payment processes.

Getting started with Forge GameLink and PayLink is straightforward and free, with optional Pro upgrades for custom domains, advanced analytics, and enhanced customization. Since its launch, Forge has partnered with hundreds of games, facilitating over 25 million completed quests and driving discovery and retention.

In summary, Forge’s new tools represent a significant evolution in game marketing and monetization. By simplifying direct-to-consumer engagement and payment processing, Forge empowers developers to reclaim control over their revenue and player relationships in a rapidly changing digital landscape.