A whale in gaming refers to a player who spends vast amounts of money on microtransactions or in-game purchases.
They usually make up a small portion of players but contribute significantly to a game’s revenue.
Hello, gamers and curious minds! Today, we explore a term that’s gaining attention in the gaming world: Whales.
We’re not talking about ocean giants but gamers making waves by spending big on microtransactions. Let’s take a closer look!
A “whale” refers to a player who spends money on a game, especially in free-to-play games with microtransactions.
These players buy all the skins, unlock every character, and are willing to spend big to get ahead or look impressive.
Whales comprise a small group of players but contribute significantly to a game’s revenue. They are the VIPs of the virtual world, similar to high rollers in a casino.
The Origin of the Term
The term “whale” came from the casino industry. Casinos use it to describe their biggest spenders, who gamble millions at the tables.
The gaming industry adopted the term free-to-play games with microtransactions, which grew in popularity.
Like casinos, game companies create unique features and promotions to attract and keep their whales. They aim to hook the big spenders.
How Much Do Whales Typically Spend on Games?
You might be curious about how much whales spend. Well, get ready for some surprising figures!
A 2016 Swrve report, still frequently referenced in the industry, reveals:
- The top 10% of spenders (whales) accounted for 48% of mobile game revenue.
- The average whale spent $24.66 each month on in-app purchases.
But these are just averages. Some whales spend much more. Reports show certain players spending thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars on one game!
For instance, a 2019 deltaDNA study discovered that whales in some free-to-play games could spend over $100 monthly. In strategy games, the top 5% of paying players spent an average of $276 monthly.
Note:
Keep in mind that the definition of a “whale” varies. Some games and studies define a whale as spending over $100 monthly, while others set a higher threshold.
Popular Games With Whale Populations
Whales are common in games with microtransaction systems. Here are some popular games known for attracting big spenders:
- Genshin Impact: Players spend money on character, and weapon pulls using its gacha system.
- Fortnite: Skins and battle passes draw large spenders, even though the purchases are primarily cosmetic.
- Mobile Legends: Bang Bang: This mobile MOBA has a large population of whales.
- Clash of Clans: One of the first mobile games to introduce the whale model.
- FIFA Ultimate Team: Players invest heavily in card packs to build their dream teams.
- Candy Crush Saga: Though simple, it has a surprisingly high-spending player base.
- Pokémon GO: The game blends augmented reality with whale spending on rare Pokémon and items.
- Star Citizen: Crowdfunding has attracted whales who spend thousands on virtual ships.
Other Related Terms
While navigating gaming economics, you’ll come across these terms:
- Microtransactions: Players make small in-game purchases, often targeting big spenders.
- Freemium: The game is free, but players pay for additional features.
- Gacha: A system similar to loot boxes commonly used in mobile games.
- Dolphins: Players who spend a moderate amount, less than whales, but still notable.
- Minnows: Players who spend little or nothing at all.
- Pay-to-Win (P2W): Spending money on these games gives players significant advantages.
- Loot Boxes: Players purchase randomized rewards, often criticized as gambling-like.
- Battle Pass: A recurring purchase system that rewards players for continued play.
Now you understand the terms related to gaming economics. Whether you’re a whale, dolphin, or minnow, remember that games should focus on fun, not on spending the most.
Play for enjoyment, and may your rewards be plentiful!