A leader's vision frequently determines whether a game development firm flourishes or fails. Independent developers confront a more difficult struggle than game industry giants, who have significant financial resources and skill pools. With limited resources, the ability to pull the team together, leverage each member's abilities, and create a product that meets and exceeds player expectations is critical to success. Today, we’re focusing on Top Games Inc. (TGI), a global independent game developer and publisher, and exploring how its founder, Yaoqi Guo, has shaped the company’s journey. Under his leadership, the company has become a key player in the world of mobile strategy games, notably with the smash-hit Evony: The King’s Return.
Yaoqi Guo, the CEO of Top Games, has always been driven by his love for technology and gaming. He began his career in the tech world, first selling multimedia management software before shifting focus to cyber security, where he developed firewall solutions. In an interview with TechBullion, Yaoqi shared his story of how a simple observation led him to become a game developer:
“I’ve always been a gamer. Back in 2009, I saw many companies neglecting player satisfaction, and that’s what motivated me to get involved with Top Games. We’re committed to providing a superior player experience by designing games from the player’s perspective.”
In gaming, just like in life, it’s not about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance in the rain. For Yaoqi, understanding what players want and continuously improving the game based on feedback has been crucial to Top Games’ success.
What Happened with Top Games Inc.?
Founded in 2015, Top Games Inc. has gone from strength to strength. With over 200 million players worldwide, the company has launched more than eight fun mobile games, with plans for additional new titles in the coming years.
The studio's philosophy revolves around data-driven decision-making and a relentless focus on player experience. The company’s games regularly earn ratings of 4.5 stars or higher, reflecting the high standards Top Games sets for itself.
Yaoqi believes that a great game is one designed with the player at its core.
“A great game is about the player experience. It should be fun, engaging, and, above all, user-oriented.”
As for the types of games they specialize in, Top Games focuses on strategy games with a strong emphasis on interactive and social elements. They believe in fair play, and their games feature robust social platforms that allow players to connect with friends and live parts of their lives through the game.
Under Yaoqi’s leadership, Top Games Inc. has earned recognition on the global stage. Winning the NYX Game Awards was a milestone moment for the company. Yaoqi was quick to share his joy with his team:
“It’s a huge honor for us to receive this award. We couldn’t have done it without the incredible support from our players and the tireless work of our development team.”
Winning such an award has not only boosted their reputation but also helped Evony: TKR reach even more players. The game’s continuous evolution with regular updates and improvements has been key to maintaining its popularity. The challenge, as Yaoqi puts it, is simple: “You need to keep players hooked. And to do that, you have to constantly evolve and improve.”
Collaboration and Creativity
One of the strategies that has set Top Games apart is their willingness to collaborate with popular IPs, enhancing the game's appeal. Last year, their collaboration with the Napoleon movie saw the introduction of Napoleon and Josephine as playable characters, allowing players to learn about history while participating in epic battles. This partnership was a resounding success, attracting new players and offering an immersive experience for history buffs.
“Our IP collaborations with brands like Kong: Skull Island and Godzilla have helped us raise our brand profile. These partnerships broaden our audience and enrich the gaming experience,” Yaoqi explains.
By tapping into established, recognizable brands, Top Games not only enhances the game’s narrative but also drives brand visibility. These collaborations are part of a broader marketing strategy aimed at attracting a diverse global player base.
Evony: The Foundation of Top Games' Success
Evony: The King's Return is the foundation of Top Games' success. With its rich tactical mechanisms, fascinating gameplay, and capacity to create long-term social connections, Evony has become a mobile gaming mainstay. Players spend hours creating empires, forming alliances, and taking part in in-game events. As one gamer describes it, "Evony is like a second life. You develop friends, form communities, and relish the excitement of competition."
The game’s monetization model has also proven effective, with many players making in-game purchases to enhance their experience. This steady stream of revenue has enabled Top Games to explore other game types and expand its portfolio.
A New Chapter: Entering Casual Gaming
This year, Top Games ventured into casual gaming, launching a match-3 puzzle game themed around aquariums. The game, which boasts over 4.6 stars in reviews, has been well-received by players. Its charming interface, cute characters, and varied gameplay elements—ranging from puzzle-solving to social interaction and music—have made it a hit, particularly during the holiday season. Word of mouth has been a key factor in its success, and it is quickly becoming one of the go-to casual games for players looking to unwind.
Looking to the Future
As Top Games continues to evolve, Yaoqi remains committed to keeping things fresh, fun, and player-centered. He has no intention of slowing down, saying:
“We’re always looking ahead. Innovation is the key to keeping the player experience engaging. And as the industry evolves, we’re ready to adapt and embrace new opportunities.”
For Yaoqi, the gaming industry is all about pushing boundaries and creating experiences that resonate deeply with players. Whether through strategic gameplay or immersive collaborations, Top Games is on a mission to deliver the best gaming experiences in the world.
In the fast-paced and fiercely competitive world of mobile gaming, Top Games Inc. is proving that with the right leadership, a focus on player experience, and an unyielding passion for innovation, success is not just possible—it’s inevitable.
