Xsolla

With significant differences across platforms and gaming devices, creating a game using in-house software was considered the most challenging part of the video game business until now. This dynamic has changed with the emergence of easy-to-use tools for game development. These tools have democratized the development of games, enabling a wave of new games to enter the market. It is undeniably great news for the players and the industry. However, with players moving from physical to digital purchases and the change in publishing models, running a successful gaming business has become more complicated today.

Xsolla is solving this puzzle for game developers. The international video game commerce company has architected a robust set of tools and services to help gaming companies easily fund, market, launch, and monetize their games. Its solutions have been adopted in more than 200 countries and territories, 20 languages, and 130 currencies. This has been possible due to its passion and indomitable zeal to up the ante of the video game industry by democratizing games' business side—in much the same way the development tools have democratized creative processes.

"Our solutions allow game developers to directly reach global consumers and build strong relationships with them," says Chris Hewish, the president of Xsolla.

Aligning with the Market

Xsolla understands that when it comes to playing video games, players use a myriad of platforms. Generally, these platforms are defined by where the game software resides - PC, Web, mobile, or Console. Xsolla equips clients with multiplatform publishing capabilities, allowing them to reach a huge number of audiences through different platforms.
Unlike other e-commerce solutions, Xsolla focuses purely on the video game industry. The company understands its partners' needs and the industry's pulse to create a rich set of features and fine-tuned algorithms that ensure higher margins for gaming companies. In fact, Xsolla develops new solutions, products, and features even before its partners need them.

"We understand that end customers are the players. We dedicate time and energy to ensure that our products are as consumer friendly as possible," says Hewish. This is visible in many ways, such as streamlined checkout flows and customizable UI/UX that help Xsolla's partners implement the technology without taking their players out of the game, literally or creatively.

Xsolla works with more than 700 different payment systems worldwide to operate as a merchant of record. The company's pay station, a single, integrated payment solution, streamlines and automates the intricate payment procedures while shouldering the risk and expense of complex VAT, sales tax, laws, and regulations. As a result, Xsolla's partners have access to more payment alternatives and safer payment options for their community.

Xsolla gives equal consideration to the security aspect. The company has a top-notch anti-fraud system built into the pay station that understands games, player spending and behavior.

Offering Direct-To-Consumer e-commerce Solution for Mobile Games and Web Shop

Web Shop, one of Xsolla's new solutions, provides an excellent way for gaming companies to tap into an entirely new market while leveraging the full power of online e-commerce.

For instance, Web Shop empowers players to learn about a new community event or promotion for their favorite mobile game. They can quickly open a link and dive into the Web Shop to take advantage of the promotion, which will then be ready for use within the mobile game. This creates an excellent way for companies to remain engaged with players throughout the day.
Web Shop also enables clients to run online ads or hold discussions in game forums. New players using the Web Shop can get an introductory offer if they download the Xsolla mobile app. This is an entirely new acquisition channel that benefits everyone.

Web Shop can be a powerful addition to a mobile game maker's toolbox that can provide authentic and engaging experiences.

"Companies shouldn't approach this as a simple online storefront," says Hewish. "We are creating a true community hub that treats the Web Shop as an entirely new platform with a rich addictive experience that expands, rather than replaces, their current mobile offerings."

Providing World-class Video Game Business Engine

What enables Xsolla to offer the right solutions to gaming companies is its zeal to listen to clients' needs and extensive understanding of the gaming industry.

"Anyone can stay on top of what their customers are asking for and the trends impacting their industry. But, it requires experience to turn those insights into world-class products to help businesses succeed. This is why we have focused exclusively on video game industry. Everyone in our company is passionate about games," says Hewish.

The ever-evolving nature of the gaming industry excites Xsolla. The company plans to grow with the industry and help its clients stay ahead of the curve. For example, with the advent of Web 3.0 and Metaverse, Xsolla has announced the NFT Checkout option, allowing game companies to sell NFTs through normal payment methods.

"One of the things I love about the video game industry is that it's constantly changing. New technologies, new business, marketing models, and of course, new ways to play; there's never a dull moment, and it's always a welcome challenge to continue growing in such a dynamic environment," says Hewish. "As a response, we will be promoting much more robust and native initiatives soon."