Game Development Case Study: How Casual Azur Games Became the Largest Emirati Game Publisher
Last update: 25 June 2025 at 09:28 am
5.00/5Taking a deep dive into a game development case study is always a smart idea, as it allows you to understand what others have done to achieve success. In this blog post, we will explore the path to more than 8 billion downloads and establish yourself as one of the largest game publishers.
This is the case of Casual Azur Games, a game development company founded in Russia in 2017, with a significant presence in Dubai, and a mission to create engaging and accessible mobile games.
Let’s get started!
Game Development Case Study: How Casual Azur Games Started
Founded in 2017, the company started in Mosco. Later moved its headquarters to Nicosia, Cyprus, and established a significant presence in Dubai, UAE. This strategic move allowed Casual Azur Games to tap into the UAE’s thriving tech ecosystem and leverage its global connectivity.
Initially, the company focused on creating and launching mid-core games that combine hardcore themes with shorter play cycles suitable for mobile devices. One of its early successes was Modern Strike Online, a mobile adaptation of Counter-Strike, which garnered over 100 million downloads and established Casual Azur Games as a promising player in the industry.
However, after recognizing the growing popularity of hypercasual games, the game development company pivoted its strategy to focus on this genre. It is characterized by its simplicity, short play sessions and addictive mechanics.
To succeed, the company had to adopt a unique approach to hypercasual game development. Instead of relying on large teams, the company empowered small groups of game developersto create innovative projects. This streamlined process allowed for faster production cycles and better metrics, enabling the company to launch multiple successful titles.
Some of their biggest hits include:
- Stack Ball + 300 million downloads worldwide.
- Hit Master 3D + 100 million downloads worldwide.
- WormsZone.io + 200 million downloads worldwide.
These games highlight the company’s ability to innovate and adapt to market trends, solidifying its position as a leading game publisher.
Strategic Partnerships and Marketing
One of the key factors behind Casual Azur Games’ billions of downloads is its ability to forge strategic partnerships and execute effective marketing campaigns.
Strategic Partnerships
🧑💻Developer collaborations: Casual Azur Games has built strong relationships with independent developers around the world. They provided resources, mentorship and support to small teams, allowing them to focus on creativity and innovation. In return, they are able to maintain a diverse portfolio of games while preserving the individuality of each studio’s work.
🌍Global network: The company has partnered with studios in multiple regions to ensure a steady flow of fresh ideas and perspectives, allowing them to stay ahead of trends and adapt to varying market demands.
👥Empowering small teams: By empowering small groups of developers to create hypercasual games, Casual Azur Games streamlined production cycles and improved metrics. This strategy not only accelerated game development, but also fostered a culture of experimentation and innovation. If you’re interested in this type of innovation, consider working with a mobile app development company in Saudi.
Marketing Strategies
👤Data-driven user acquisition: Casual Azur Games invested heavily in user acquisition campaigns, using advanced data analytics to optimize its efforts. By analyzing player behavior and preferences, the company tailored its marketing strategies to effectively reach the right audience.
💵In-game advertising: The company used in-game advertising to generate revenue without compromising the player experience. This approach proved successful in increasing revenue while maintaining a high level of player engagement.
🧑💻Long-term game support: In contrast to the traditional hypercasual model of rapid game releases, Casual Azur Games focused on enhancing already successful games. By providing updates and new content, they extended the lifespan of their games and maintained player interest over time.
🤝Collaboration with industry leaders: Casual Azur Games partnered with platforms such as Google Ads to discuss and refine the monetization and marketing of hypercasual games. These collaborations provided valuable insights and helped the company stay at the forefront of industry developments.
Impact on the UAE Gaming Industry
Casual Azur Games’ presence in Dubai has had a transformative impact on the UAE gaming industry.
- The company has inspired other startups and contributed to the region’s reputation as a hub for innovation.
- Its success has attracted global attention, encouraging investment and collaboration in the UAE’s technology sector.
- The company has also played a role in nurturing local talent. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and partnerships with educational institutions, Casual Azur Games has helped aspiring developers hone their skills and pursue careers in game development.
Conclusion
Conclusion Casual Azur Games’ journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring game developers and companies:
- Adaptability. By pivoting to hypercasual games, the company demonstrated the importance of staying attuned to market trends and evolving player preferences.
- Collaboration. Partnerships with developers and studios have been instrumental in the company’s success, demonstrating the power of teamwork and a shared vision.
- Data-driven approach. Making marketing and user acquisition decisions based on data can significantly increase a company’s reach and impact.
Casual Azur Games cntinues to shape the future of mobile gaming by delivering experiences that engage gamers worldwide.
