Best Tips For Instagram Game Ads To Boost Installs In 2025

Creating effective Instagram game ads is not as easy as it may seem. The game market is crowded, and players are getting more and more picky. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are some strategies that we observe can boost game downloads successfully. Whether you are a game studio, independent developer, or marketer, this article will provide what you need to succeed with your games in 2025. Let’s dive in.

Are Instagram Game Ads Profitable? Should We Advertise Games on Instagram?

Yes, Instagram games ads can be profitable, as long as you execute them correctly. To decide whether or not to advertise a game on Instagram, you should consider the pros and cons.

Pros of Instagram game ads

Below are some advantages that game publishers can expect from Instagram ads.

• Vast audience base: With around 2 billion monthly active users (source: Statista), Instagram offers a vast audience base for game ads.
• High engagement: The visual-centric nature of the platform together with the eye-catching graphic feature of games ads make it easy to gain more interactions from Instagram.
• Interactiveness: Instagram has some unique features like click-to-play ads which allow users to preview and play a game directly from the ad. No need to install, reduce irritation, and improve conversions.

Cons of Instagram game ads

However, game ads can be challenging on Instagram due to some factors as below:

• Deceptive marketing tactics: Many advertisers cheat players into installing games by showcasing high-quality graphics in ads, which doesn’t match the real game experience.
• Annoying ad creatives: Some game ads use annoying scenes of players making stupid decisions to entice people to download the game. While this may be effective in a short time, it can backfire as users often feel misled. 
• High competition: The mobile gaming market is competitive, so it may be more expensive to get your ads shown to audiences and stand out.

So, should we run Instagram game ads? 

In my opinion, game publishers should advertise on Instagram. Many brands like Playrix, Voodoo, and SayGames successfully leverage Instagram ads to acquire consumers. However, to make successful game ads, you need to apply the right strategies. 

>>> Explore more: How To Delete An Ad On Instagram In 4 Steps

Best Tips to Create Effective Game Ads on Instagram

If you’ve decided to try Instagram game advertisements, read on.

Here are some technical and content tips to navigate game ads on Instagram successfully. 

Define your target audience

Not all Instagram users can be your game consumers. For example, some games are preferred by females, while some nurture mainly male players.

To optimize ad spending, you should identify the most potential audience for your game.

So, consider demographics such as age, gender, and interests to tailor your ad creatives accordingly.

Test different ad formats

Experiment with different ad formats to see which performs best for your game. Focus on these formats:

• Video ads
• Carousel ads 
• Image ads
• Stories ads
• Reels ads
• Click-to-play ads

For example, stories and reel ads can create an immersive feeling that makes the audience forget that they are watching ads. Meanwhile, static image ads can be effective for viral meme posts.

Keep it short and engaging

Human attention span is getting shorter and shorter. 

Thus, your message should be clear, concise, and to the point in the first 3 seconds. 

Use fast-paced videos, compelling graphics, and engaging storytelling to keep viewers interested.

Leverage Instagram’s visual appeal

Instagram prioritizes visuals, so ensure your ads align with this value. 

You can use striking colors, impressive character designs, and aesthetic elements to enhance engagement. 

Match your ad style consistent with your game to create a seamless experience for players installing the game from your ad.

Optimize for mobile viewing

Do you know that 98% of Instagram users access the platform via mobile? That’s why your game ads should be friendly for mobile users, especially if you are making ads for mobile games.

But how to do it? Well, make vertical videos of the 9:16 ratio. Follow the recommended Instagram ad dimensions. Minimize text and make it big enough to read on phones.

Add captions to video ads

Many Instagram users watch videos on mute. 

Therefore, when making video ads, always add captions to make sure everyone can get your message fully.

Use humor and memes

A great sense of humor can set your game apart from competitors. Ultimately, users scroll Instagram or play games for entertainment.

Some games like Summoner’s Greed use meme image ads to connect with audiences. People often find these funny, memes more relatable and shareable. Moreover, static images are much cheaper and effortless to create than videos.

Avoid deceptive marketing

Don’t use misleading graphics, pushy marketing, or bait-and-switch tactics. They will backfire on your business in the long term.

Instead, you should focus on improving the quality and playing experience of your game. Showcase real gameplay and features to maintain trust and reputation.

Test and monitor metrics

Experiment with different ad variants and track key metrics of those ads to assess how they work. 

You should focus on:

• Reach
• Engagement
• Click-through rate (CTR)
• Cost per click (CPC)
• Cost per 1,000 impressions (CPM)
• Cost per install (CPI)

Also, you can use Meta Pixel and UTM tracking to see how Instagram game ads contribute to overall game downloads and revenue.

Consider hiring an expert or agency account

If your budget allows, you can hire an ad expert or rent Facebook agency accounts to optimize ad performance and spending. 

While it seems to add more expenses at the beginning, it will help you save a lot in the long run as your money is spent more effectively. 

How Much Does It Cost To Run Instagram Game Ads?

The cost of game ads on Instagram can vary based on many factors such as target audience, competition, and ad format. 

According to industry reports, on average, the cost of Instagram game ads is 20-40% more expensive than Facebook ads. 

The table below summarizes the average Instagram game ad cost:

>>> Learn more: How Much Do Instagram Ads Cost?

Successful Examples Of Instagram Game Ads To Get Inspired

If you need some motivation for advertising your game on Instagram, here you are. 

Gearbox Instagram game ads

Gearbox used Instagram ads to introduce their game titled Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands. 

They ran photo ads featuring the main character and game settings in bold colors. 

They also added concise text to the image and the ad caption to explain the game’s unique appeal. 

Finally, they used strong CTAs like Buy Now and Shop Now to encourage desired actions effectively. 

Summoner’s Greed meme game ads

Summoner’s Greed chose meme-style ads to stand out. Unlike other poor-quality game ads that make fake gameplay, they make funny memes with authentic graphics to promote their games. They emphasize this uniqueness in every post.

The use of memes made the ad shareable and relatable for a broad audience, from casual to hardcore gamers. 

Also, as they showcase the real gameplay, users can set realistic expectations and react more positively to their products.

Conclusion

Instagram game ads can be a profitable and effective way to boost installs and acquire players. By leveraging Instagram’s features, making authentic ads, and optimizing ad creatives, you can create successful Instagram ads for your game.

For further expert assistance, account rental, or Instagram tips, contact GDT Agency today!

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