Unity vs Xsolla

Azra Games CEO on $50M UnGodly and iPhone Duo optimization

Azra Games CEO Mark Otero discusses the development of the dark fantasy action RPG UnGodly, which was showcased at Apple's recent keynote for the iPhone Duo. The game, launching globally on November 11th, will run at up to 120fps on the new foldable device and supports iOS 27 Auto Resizability. Otero reveals that the game cost over $50 million to build, a significant increase from previous mobile budgets. UnGodly is being developed in Unity and will also launch on Android, PC, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro, with later availability on Samsung's Galaxy Store and Korea's ONE Store. Otero emphasizes the game's goal to deliver console-quality RPG experiences on mobile, and he discusses the optimization efforts required to ensure the game feels native on various hardware platforms, including the iPhone Duo.

• Azra Games' UnGodly will launch globally on November 11th for iOS, Android, PC, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro.
• UnGodly will run at up to 120fps on Apple's iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro.
• The game development budget exceeded $50 million, a rise from the $10-20M budgets of a previous generation.

Mobile D2C: From Web Shop to Full Ecosystem

Direct-to-consumer (D2C) web shops have become a recognized success for mobile game developers, but the next stage involves building an ecosystem around the storefront. Xsolla, a payment and monetization provider, highlights that studios using its full Web Shop Ecosystem—integrating monetisation, engagement, and operations—see roughly double the share of revenue moving through the direct channel compared to those focused on sales alone. Capture rates average around 25% for studios using more tools versus 13% for those using fewer. The company has launched over 800 web shops since 2021. Xsolla's Executive Vice President, Artem Liubutov, emphasizes that winning studios run the full player lifecycle on the web, with engagement and operations connected. This approach moves beyond simple transaction processing to foster loyalty, repeat purchases, and higher lifetime value.

• Xsolla has launched more than 800 Web Shops since 2021.
• Studios using the full Xsolla Web Shop Ecosystem see roughly double the share of revenue moving direct compared to those focused on sales alone.
• Capture rates average around 25% for studios using more tools, compared to roughly 13% for those using fewer.

Xsolla acquires GamePix: unlocking the future of Web and AI gaming

Xsolla has announced the acquisition of GamePix, a move aimed at advancing Web and AI gaming. The announcement was made on October 29, 2026.

Agree IP Terms Early, Cut AI Hype: PGC Nordics Lessons

PGC Nordics 2026 in Helsinki featured insights from industry experts on IP collaborations, AI hype, live ops, and direct-to-consumer strategy. Katharina Schmidt of Stash advised agreeing on IP usage rights and scope early in collaborations. Dr Luke Dicken, former head of AI at Take-Two, cautioned against both dismissing AI and overhyping it, suggesting a focus on practical value like contextual recaps. Urška Leskovar of Outfit7 argued that adding more content to live games isn't always beneficial; players need a reason to care, not just more tasks. Ola Dokun of Xsolla emphasized that a webshop isn't the same as a D2C strategy and advised planning for changing economics. The event highlighted the importance of strategic, measured approaches over reactive ones.

• PGC Nordics took place in Helsinki on October 20-21, 2026.
• Katharina Schmidt of Stash advised agreeing on IP usage rights and approvals early in collaborations.
• Dr Luke Dicken, former head of AI at Take-Two Interactive, warned against both dismissing and overhyping AI.