Scaling a Mobile Game in Brazil with PPC Advertising

We ran a user acquisition campaign for an Android mobile game and encountered two major challenges: high CPL and frequent ad rejections. Additionally, the game was not published on the Google Play Store, requiring users to be directed to the website for downloads.

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/Goals/

Project goals

The primary goals were to increase brand awareness, drive downloads, lower CPL, and successfully scale the campaigns.

/Results/

Results

Increase in return on investment (ROI) 2.3x
Decrease in cost-per-lead -38%
Increase in downloads +170%
Due optimized video creatives and A/B-tested CTAs, CTR improved +45%
Expanded campaigns to new regions without increasing the cost-per-lead
/Work Done/

What Was Done

We launched Meta Ads (Facebook & Instagram) using tailored formats like Stories, Feed, and Instant Experience to match user behavior and maximize engagement. We optimized App Install campaigns for multiple funnel events: registration, first login, and early in-game activity. A/B tests were conducted comparing video and static ad formats, experimenting with different calls to action (CTAs), and identifying the best combinations of targeting and creative.

We built lookalike audiences based on paying users and segmented by gaming interests, demographics, and behavioral signals to improve targeting accuracy. The ability for detailed interest and behavioral targeting made it a much more targeted reach. To avoid rejections, we rewrote Meta ad copy in full compliance with platform policies, replaced flagged words, and set up automated monitoring for quick resolution.

This case shows how mobile games without store placement can scale effectively through tailored PPC strategies — without sacrificing performance.

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/Other cases/

Other success stories

/faq/

Quick Answers
for Curious Minds

What was the main challenge?

A major technical constraint: еhe game had no Google Play listing, so installs had to be driven via the website. Campaigns faced high CPL and frequent ad rejections, making scaling complex.

How did you approach campaign structure?

We launched Meta Ads across Stories, Feed, and Instant Experience. Campaigns were optimized for funnel events — registration, first login, and early in-game actions — not just clicks.

What role did creatives play?

Video creatives and A/B-tested CTAs significantly improved performance. The shift from static to optimized video raised CTR by 45%.

How did you optimize targeting?

We built lookalike audiences based on paying users and layered in gaming interests, demographics, and behavioral signals. This precision cut CPL and boosted ROI.

How did you address ad rejection issues?

All ad copy was rewritten in full compliance with Meta policies. We replaced flagged terms, added monitoring, and automated alerts to resolve issues quickly.

How were costs controlled during scaling?

We scaled into new regions while keeping CPL flat. This was achieved through interest refinement and continual A/B testing of creatives and CTAs.

What results validated the strategy?

ROI grew to 2.3x, CPL dropped by 38%, downloads increased by 170%, and CTR rose by 45%. All metrics tied directly to campaign adjustments.

What risks did you consider?

Main risks were overspending on poor-quality leads and compliance rejections. Mitigation included multi-stage funnel optimization and strict policy adherence.

Can this framework work for other apps or industries?

Yes. The model of funnel-driven optimization, audience refinement, and compliance-first creative development can scale in gaming, fintech, or SaaS.

What was the biggest success driver?

A combination of policy-compliant creatives, precise targeting, and multi-funnel optimization. Together they turned a difficult setup into profitable growth.

/contact us/