The Power of Competitor Targeting: How to Win Users from Similar Games

In the crowded mobile gaming market, every user counts—and so does every install your competitor earns. What if you could directly target users who are already playing games similar to yours? With competitor targeting, you can do just that.

This advanced UA strategy allows mobile game marketers to reach high-intent players who are likely to engage with your game because they already enjoy similar experiences. In this blog, we’ll explore how competitor targeting works, why it’s so effective, and how AI-powered platforms like Gamelight make it easier than ever to implement.

What is Competitor Targeting in Mobile UA?

Competitor targeting involves reaching users who already play games in your niche—whether it’s match-3, idle RPG, or hyper-casual runners. Instead of starting from scratch, you’re tapping into an audience that’s already primed for your game’s style, mechanics, and theme.

Why Competitor Targeting Works

✅ High intent users – These players are actively looking for games like yours. ✅ Faster conversions – Since the gameplay loop is familiar, users are more likely to engage immediately. ✅ Better LTV – Users who are interested in your genre tend to stay longer and spend more. ✅ Lower UA risk – You’re not experimenting blindly—you’re strategically attracting known fans of similar titles.

How to Execute a Competitor Targeting Strategy

1. Identify Your Top CompetitorsUse market intelligence tools to research which games share your core audience. Look at store rankings, ad creatives, user reviews, and monetization style.

2. Segment Creatives by Competitor TypeTailor your messaging and visuals based on what users love about those competing titles. Example: “If you loved Puzzle X, you’ll be addicted to Your Game.”

3. Use Platform Tools with Competitor FiltersPlatforms like Gamelight allow you to specifically target users who engage with competitor titles. This precision increases conversion potential and saves budget.

4. Test and IterateRun A/B tests with different competitor-based creatives to find which audience and message combination delivers the best performance.

AI + Competitor Targeting = Next-Level Results

AI takes competitor targeting to the next level by:

• Analyzing performance across similar games to identify which audiences convert best

• Optimizing spend toward users most likely to install and engage

• Auto-generating ad variants based on what works in competitor campaigns

Gamelight’s AI-powered self-serve dashboard empowers you to implement advanced strategies like competitor targeting without needing a full UA team.

Looking to boost your game's user acquisition? Utilize a self-serve dashboard to easily and effectively enhance your UA efforts. These user-friendly dashboards give you complete control over your budget and offer extensive targeting options, making it a smart choice for elevating your game's reach.

The Gamelight advertising platform is a leading mobile marketing solution equipped with an intuitive self-serve dashboard. Operating on a CPI basis, it drives direct traffic from a self-published mobile game recommendation platform. Moreover, you can set up your account and launch your first campaign in just 5 minutes!

👉 Click HERE to check the self-serve dashboard of the Gamelight advertising platform.📩 If you need help, fill in THIS FORM and one of our team members will get back to you within 24 hours.