Should League prioritize developing new game modes to increase player engagement or focus on refining existing modes for competitive integrity?

Introduction

The trade-off between developing new game modes and refining existing modes for competitive integrity is a critical decision for League. This scenario touches on player engagement, competitive balance, and resource allocation. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining product understanding, metrics, experimentation, and decision-making frameworks.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Context: I'm assuming League is facing player retention challenges. Is this correct, and can you provide more context on the current player engagement trends?

Why it matters: Helps prioritize between growth and retention strategies Expected answer: Slight decline in daily active users over the past quarter Impact on approach: Would focus on re-engaging existing players rather than attracting new ones

• Business Context: Based on the competitive nature of MOBAs, I'm thinking esports might be a significant revenue driver. How important is the esports ecosystem to League's overall business model?

Why it matters: Influences the balance between casual and competitive focus Expected answer: Esports contributes 30% of revenue, growing year-over-year Impact on approach: Would lean towards refining existing modes for competitive integrity

• User Impact: I'm assuming there are distinct player segments with different preferences. Can you share insights on the breakdown between casual and competitive players?

Why it matters: Helps tailor solutions to meet diverse player needs Expected answer: 60% casual, 40% competitive, with overlap Impact on approach: Would consider a hybrid solution addressing both segments

• Technical: Considering the complexity of MOBA gameplay, I imagine implementing new game modes requires significant development resources. What's the typical timeline for developing and launching a new game mode?

Why it matters: Assesses feasibility and opportunity cost Expected answer: 6-9 months from concept to launch Impact on approach: Would factor in long-term planning and resource allocation

• Resource: Given the trade-off nature, I'm curious about team capacity. Do we have separate teams for new mode development and existing mode refinement, or would this be a reallocation of the same resources?

Why it matters: Determines if it's a true either/or scenario or if parallel development is possible Expected answer: Shared resources with some specialization Impact on approach: Would explore ways to balance efforts between both initiatives