May 8, 2025
Hey kids…
Say hello to your new Pope!
郭燕峰 二五零五零九
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Hey kids…
Say hello to your new Pope!
郭燕峰 二五零五零九
Evony × Napoleon: Uniting History and Gaming with David Guo
David Guo, also known as Yaoqi Guo, is a prominent CEO who has served at Top Games Inc., the independent global video gaming developer & publisher, since the release and publishing of the well-known SLG game Evony in 2016. Under his leadership, the company has achieved remarkable success in the mobile gaming market, garnering significant publicity. The global mobile gaming market size reached USD…
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Evony leads the growth of IAP in strategy games - Top Games persists in developing cross-genre games for growth
According to Sensor Tower, in 2024, strategy games led global consumer spending with $17.5 billion, driven by enduring hits like Evony: The King’s Return, which maintained strong engagement and revenue growth throughout the year. Evony's revenue reached $299,701,595, with 36,299,211 downloads. In 2025, developers are focusing on player retention and delivering high-quality gaming experiences. As the competition intensifies to capture player spending and engagement, established classics are up against new releases, top genres are exploring emerging niches, and businesses are adopting innovative monetization strategies.
Revenue saw a 4% increase compared to 2023, although downloads declined by 6%. This suggests that developers and industry players are compensating for the lower user acquisition rates with more effective monetization strategies. Overall, forward-thinking developers are actively seeking growth opportunities.
Strategy games were closely followed by RPGs, which generated $16.8 billion in revenue. Puzzle and Casino genres secured the third and fourth positions, contributing $12.2 billion and $11.7 billion, respectively. Puzzle games, in particular, demonstrated strong monetization despite a decrease in downloads. The Action, Simulation, and Shooter genres experienced significant growth, with Action leading the pack in revenue gains (+46%). Despite a drop in downloads, sports games still generated $2.7 billion. These trends highlight the continued strong monetization potential of competitive and immersive genres such as Strategy, RPG, and Action, which continue to capture a global audience.
The Evony team regularly releases updates and new content for the game, including holiday events, special missions, and new features, which help maintain player interest and engagement. For example, during the Civilization Celebration event in New Historical City: Stockholm, players are ranked within their own continent based on the amount of Valorous Medals they earn. The rankings and medal counts reset daily, and players can earn Historic City Key Fragments based on their performance.
Top Games, founded in 2015 by co-founder David Guo, has always been committed to creating high-quality user experiences. Their design philosophy is user-centric, and in addition to strategy games, Top Games has developed a diverse range of games across various genres and themes, including match-3, lifestyle, RPG, and more. Their themes span a wide range, from zombies and magic to heroes and tribes, offering players a variety of engaging game experiences.
Like other developers, Top Games is constantly seeking to innovate and improve. In addition to updating and iterating on classic profitable games, they are actively exploring new and exciting game projects for future growth. As we look ahead to 2025, we can expect to see new game releases, and it’s something we’ll all be eagerly awaiting.
Evony: The King’s Return Community Building and Top Games Inc.'s Expanding Portfolio
In June 2024, the mobile game developer Top Games Inc. made waves by releasing Aquarium Crush, a Match-3 casual game with an aquatic theme. It quickly became a download hit, capturing the attention of casual gamers around the world.
The release of Aquarium Crush signified Top Games Inc.'s strategic move into the casual gaming sector, complementing its previous success in more complex game genres. With this new venture, Top Games Inc. is diversifying its offerings, creating a broad portfolio to cater to various player preferences. However, the company's flagship title, Evony: The King’s Return, remains a core pillar of its success.
Evony: The King’s Return
Released in 2016, Evony: The King’s Return has grown into a real-time strategy game beloved by millions. By early 2025, it had reached over 200 million downloads, solidifying its position as the company's cornerstone game. This success isn't just measured by numbers; Evony has generated over $300 million annually, fueling the development of new projects like Aquarium Crush. The steady revenue from Evony has allowed Top Games Inc. to broaden its horizons while maintaining a solid foundation in the strategy game market.
At its heart, Evony: The King’s Return is more than just a game of battles. It’s a strategy experience that requires players to manage resources, form alliances, and build empires over time. It’s a game of depth, not just pure action. Players can choose legendary generals from history, including figures like Alexander the Great and Joan of Arc, and face off against others on the same virtual battlefield. The ability to combine different historical figures and cultures sets Evony apart from other games in its genre, offering players a rich and diverse experience.
But the success of Evony: The King’s Return doesn't end with its gameplay mechanics. Much of its enduring popularity can be attributed to Top Games Inc.'s dedication to building a thriving player community. As Evony continues to evolve, community engagement remains a key focus.
Top Games Inc. co-founder and CEO, David Guo (also known as Yaoqi Guo), firmly believes that fostering a strong community is essential for any game's longevity. He views real-time strategic exchanges and casual chats as fundamental elements in creating a harmonious, interactive environment for players. With this in mind, David Guo has designed several communication features in Evony to enhance the social experience and make it easier for players to connect.
Highlighting Independent Channels and Private Communication
One of the standout features in Evony is its battle-specific communication channels. During major in-game events like large-scale battles or campaigns, players have access to independent communication channels. This thoughtful design ensures that players can stay focused on the task at hand without being distracted by unrelated chats. It’s like giving each group its own "war room" where they can strategize and collaborate toward victory, without any unnecessary noise.
Additionally, Evony introduces a private mail system, which allows players to send messages to individuals even if they aren’t friends. While the game previously had a "Whisper" feature for private chats among friends, the private mail system expands this functionality. It enables players to reach out to others across the server, fostering more meaningful interactions and enhancing the game’s social dimension.
Casual Mode Message Board for Social Interaction
Another feature that boosts the game's social aspects is the Message Board in the casual mode, Ideal Land. Here, players can post messages and interact with one another. This system bridges the gap between the game’s primary strategy mechanics and the secondary, more casual gameplay. David Guo and the Top Games Inc. team designed Ideal Land to ensure that even players who prefer a more laid-back gaming experience can feel connected. It’s like creating a virtual neighborhood where players can exchange ideas, share tips, and get to know each other.
These communication systems are not just technical features; they reflect the core values of Top Games Inc. and its leadership. David Guo has always prioritized the player experience, recognizing that gaming is not just about winning; it’s about building relationships, sharing experiences, and creating lasting memories.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Top Games Inc. and Evony
As Top Games Inc. continues to innovate and expand, the future looks bright. With Evony: The King’s Return remaining a pillar of their portfolio and the successful release of Aquarium Crush, the company is showing that it can balance both depth and accessibility in its games. The use of data science, community-building features, and a commitment to quality content ensures that Top Games Inc. will remain a major player in the gaming industry for years to come.
In the end, Evony is more than just a game; it’s a testament to the company’s ability to adapt, evolve, and provide players with the tools to create their own virtual empires. Whether you’re building alliances in the ancient world or relaxing with a Match-3 puzzle, Top Games Inc. has something for everyone. After all, as the old saying goes, “Variety is the spice of life,” and Top Games Inc. is certainly spicing up the mobile gaming world in a big way.
Towards 2025: Interview with Top Games Inc. CEO David Guo on Future Strategies and Innovation
2025 is approaching, and many classic mobile games continue to perform well in the gaming industry. One notable example is the strategy game Evony: The King's Return. Its developer, Top Games Inc. (TGI), has achieved outstanding success under the leadership of CEO David Guo (Yaoqi Guo). The game continues to enjoy a loyal fanbase.
In this interview, CEO and Founder David Guo shares insights into TGI’s core strategies, their approach to game development, and their vision for the future of gaming in 2025.
Q1: Why Does TGI Offer a Diverse Range of Games?
A1: We believe that players have diverse tastes. By developing games across different genres, we reach a broader audience and provide players with new experiences. For example, integrating puzzle elements into Evony attracted fans of that genre and enriched our community. Our strategy is to appeal to as many players as possible, whether they prefer hardcore strategy or casual games.
Q2: What Contributes to Evony's Global Popularity?
A2: Evony’s success stems from its engaging gameplay, deep strategy, and active community. It appeals to both new and experienced players. We prioritize user experience and build strong, loyal player bases. By evolving the game and staying user-focused, Evony remains one of the top-grossing mobile games. Unlike competitors who focus on short-term gains, we are dedicated to long-term community building.
Q3: How Does TGI Keep Players Engaged in a Changing Landscape?
A3: We regularly update Evony with fresh challenges, stories, and features. Listening to player feedback is key to adjusting our development priorities. Using data to understand player behavior helps us create experiences that maintain engagement. I also monitor YouTube feedback, including both positive and negative comments. While we consider all players, we aim to design for a wide, diverse audience.
Q4: How Will AI Impact the Future of Gaming?
A4: AI is transforming the gaming industry. At TGI, we use AI to enhance user experiences, improve engagement, and streamline development processes. We plan to integrate AI into game mechanics and player behavior analysis. While AI plays a crucial role, human creativity is irreplaceable and continues to drive the industry forward.
Q5: What’s the Strategic Value of Collaborations with Brands and IPs?
A5: Collaborations with well-known brands, like Kong: Skull Island, Godzilla, and Napoleon, are both fun and strategic. They boost brand visibility and attract new players. These partnerships enrich our games and create win-win-win scenarios for players, partners, and TGI. We are always open to new collaborations that can enhance our games.
Q6: How Does TGI Use Data Science in Decision Making?
A6: Data science helps us make informed decisions by analyzing player feedback, market trends, and performance metrics. It increases efficiency and guides product development. Data also helps us understand employee engagement, fostering a motivating work environment. Rather than replacing staff, we use AI to support our team’s growth. People are our greatest asset.
Q7: What Makes a Game Truly Exceptional?
A7: A great game has engaging gameplay, a strong story, and intuitive design. It should balance challenge and reward, offer immersive experiences, and be easy to play. Evolving content, dynamic environments, and varied challenges are essential to maintaining player interest. At TGI, we focus on these qualities in games like Evony, ensuring an ever-changing world that keeps players engaged.
Q8: How Does TGI’s Corporate Culture Support Game Development?
A8: At TGI, our corporate culture is centered around user needs, innovation, and continuous improvement. We foster an environment where team members can excel and contribute to delivering great gaming experiences. Open communication, inclusivity, and collaboration are core to our culture, sparking creativity and driving high-quality game development. Integrity, excellence, and passion are essential to our mission.
Q9: What Advice Would You Give Aspiring Game Developers?
A9: Cultivate your passion, keep learning, and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Collaboration and mentorship are invaluable. Building a network of peers and mentors is key to success in the industry.
Q10: What’s TGI’s Vision for the Future of Gaming?
A10: We see gaming becoming more integrated into daily life, offering immersive experiences beyond traditional entertainment. We’re particularly excited about blockchain gaming, wearable tech, and the metaverse. TGI is committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements.
This interview provides an inside look at the strategic mindset and future vision of Top Games Inc., emphasizing their commitment to player engagement, innovation, and long-term success.
Top Games Inc. and Evony: The King’s Return Celebrate 8 Years of Strategy and Success
Nowadays, people always like to use their phones to lift their mood instead of dwelling on depressing things. The best mobile games will bring a little joy to your day, whether you’re killing time chilling on the couch or enjoying the fun of “co-op” with friends or family during holidays.
As a real-time strategy game, Evony: The King's Return has been an addictive slice of gaming pleasure that players have been immersing in for years.
Evony TKR Celebrates Its 8th Anniversary with Exciting Updates
Evony: The King’s Return recently celebrated its 8th anniversary and launched the Eighth Anniversary Version 4.86.0 with exciting features:
Package Value Return Boost
The value of most in-game packages has significantly increased. Get more items for the same price, plus discover new and exciting packages!
Dragon Level Cap Increase
The maximum level for Dragons and Sacred Dragons is now Level 20!
Check details in [Pasture] → [Dragon] or [Dragon Cliff] → [Sacred Dragon]. Feed your Dragons to level them up!
Champion Level Cap Increase
The maximum Loyalty level for Champions has been raised to Level 28!
View the details in [Keep] → [Champion].
Activity Quest Optimization
The Boss Monster Kill quest is replaced by the Consume Stamina quest. Use a set amount of Stamina to earn rewards!
Leadership and Creative Vision at Top Games Inc.
David Guo, co-founder and CEO of Top Games Inc., along with VP Benjamin Gifford, is committed to creating games with engaging narratives, deep gameplay, and creative cross-genre mechanics. Their focus is to make games “fun and captivating” while maintaining long-term player appeal.
This promise is no small feat. Game development requires constant innovation and refinement, both to stand out in a competitive market and to deliver unique gameplay experiences. The team excels with a flat, collaborative structure that focuses on solving core challenges efficiently.
Evony: TKR has achieved impressive milestones:
Over 355 million downloads
Revenue exceeding $355 million in 2023
In 2024, the team continues to grow, expanding into new game genres. Their latest project, Aquarium Crush, launched in June, combines an aquarium theme with adorable cartoon characters and puzzle mechanics. It has already earned a 4.6+ rating on app stores, winning praise from players.
David Guo’s Vision for Innovation
As CEO of Top Games Inc., David Guo plays a pivotal role in steering the company’s direction. He is passionate about exploring emerging technologies and integrating them creatively into new digital projects beyond gaming.
Unlike many developers who shy away from disruptive technologies, Top Games Inc. actively embraces innovation. The team is exploring how generative AI can enhance user interactions in games and improve workflows for efficiency.
David’s vision drives the company to create products that are not only fun but also at the forefront of technological advancement.
Plus, I also tried Aquarium Crush, a match-3 casual game featuring adorable cartoon fish. It’s perfect for passing time during your commute and ideal for kids to enjoy as well.
Whether you’re into deep strategy games like Evony: TKR, where teamwork, planning, and crafting strategies are essential, or prefer relaxing casual games, TGI has something to offer for everyone.
Looking ahead, I’m confident the company will continue to deliver exceptional games across diverse genres, reaching a broader audience with varied age groups and preferences.
David Guo (Yaoqi Guo) Raises the Bar: Evony Keeps Hitting Home Runs
In indie game development certain mobile games have shown remarkable success in 2023. Take Evony: The King's Return, a real-time strategy MMO game that has gained over 200 million downloads and now includes a PC version. Top Games Inc. created this game, and its co-founder David Guo, also called Yaoqi Guo, believes in staying open to new ideas breaking new ground, and responding when making games. To Guo, Evony means more than just a game—it's a way of life bringing strategy and history to players around the world.
A Game of Strategy and History
Evony combines city-building managing resources, and large-scale fights. Players can construct medieval cities, build up armies, and start wars.
against rival kingdoms in real-time. The game’s mix of strategic depth and puzzle-solving keeps players on their toes. What makes Evony unique is its focus on historical figures. Players can summon iconic leaders like George Washington, Julius Caesar, and Cleopatra, who bring their historical strategies to the battlefield.
Engaging Social Dynamics
Beyond the battlefield, Evony thrives on its social features. Players can form alliances, share resources, and engage in multiplayer competitions globally. The game’s real-time translation feature allows players from 25 different languages to communicate easily, fostering a vibrant community.
David Guo's Vision for Innovation
David Guo, with 25+ years in the field, stands out for his innovative thinking about gaming. He thinks a top-notch game should do more than just entertain - it should push players to use their brains and change their approach. "A game goes beyond just how it works or looks," Guo points out. "It's about making a world players can dive into where they feel like they own their wins. That's why we put so much work into smart gameplay and deep history." As he leads, Evony keeps breaking new ground in mobile gaming by mixing history clever planning, and getting players involved.
David Guo also emphasizes the importance of community-driven innovation. “Player feedback is crucial to our development process. We listen to our community and use their insights to guide our updates,” Guo explains. This player-focused approach is evident in the frequent content updates and the introduction of new features that enhance gameplay. According to Guo, balancing game complexity with accessibility is key: “We want every player, from newcomers to veterans, to feel they can contribute and succeed in the world of Evony.” This philosophy ensures that Evony stays relevant and engaging, year after year.
Weekly Events Boosting Engagement
To keep gameplay fresh and exciting, Evony hosts weekly events that enhance player engagement. For example, in the Wheel of Civilization event, players spin for rare rewards using Noble Coins earned through in-game activities. Other events, like the Quest for Treasure, involve treasure hunts that offer both personal and alliance rewards. Additionally, events such as the General Portrait Exhibition and King’s Scheme allow players to collect and redeem historical figures. Daily events like the Legion Hunting and Strategic Stockpile keep players involved by offering rewards for regular participation. These events keep the community active and the gameplay dynamic.
Looking Ahead
With Evony's growing success, Top Games Inc. continues to explore new gaming experiences. Their future projects, including partnerships with IPs like Napoleon and Godzilla, highlight their commitment to merging entertainment with historical and strategic depth. As Guo himself says, “A game is not just entertainment—it’s a way of life.”
Yaoqi David Guo: Innovation Over Imitation
The recent release of the AAA game Black Myth: Wukong has captured the attention of gamers worldwide and has trended on numerous social media platforms. This game, developed by the Chinese company Game Science, has generated significant anticipation among players due to its outstanding graphics and meticulous attention to detail. In the gaming industry, more and more developers are focusing on excellence and striving for perfection. In the mobile gaming sector, strategy games generated $355 million in revenue in 2023, with independent game development companies performing exceptionally well. The developers behind this success, Top Games Inc., prioritize the development of high-quality games. The team members adopt a data-driven approach combined with OKR (Objectives and Key Results) and MVP (Minimum Viable Product) methodologies, achieving excellence quietly and effectively.
Yaoqi Guo, also known as David Guo, is the CEO and co-founder of Top Games Inc. He is recognized for his forward-thinking and innovative approach in the gaming industry. Anticipating the rise of mobile gaming from browser games in 2012, Guo formed a team of professionals to focus on developing mobile games. In 2017, “Evony: The King’s Return” aired during the Super Bowl, significantly boosting its recognition. The game’s high quality and immersive strategy experience earned it a steady rating of over 4 stars on major platforms. In the first quarter, it won the prestigious NYX Silver Award in the NYX Game Awards Season 1. By September, “Evony” ranked 5th among mid-core games in the United States, according to Data.ai. It concluded the year by winning the Samsung Galaxy Store 2022 Best MMO Award.
Technological Advancements and Market Growth
In 2023, the global mobile gaming market revenue reached $76.7 billion, a 22% increase from pre-pandemic levels, indicating steady recovery. Projections suggest further growth, potentially surpassing $100 billion by 2028. The U.S. remains the highest revenue market, maintaining $41.7 billion in 2023. While mid-core game revenue has dipped, it still constitutes 59% of total market revenue. Casual games have shown robust performance, with hybrid casual game revenue growing by 30% to $2.1 billion. The mobile gaming market demonstrates strong growth potential, driven by technological advancements and increasing consumer spending.
Embracing Emerging Technologies
Guo advocates for integrating AR, VR, and MR technologies into mobile gaming to enhance immersion and interaction. These technologies can create interactive environments, boosting the realism and appeal of gaming experiences. The combination of wearables and games has attracted players seeking immersive experiences, prompting large companies to invest in developing headsets and other wearable devices.
Innovation Over Imitation
Guo emphasizes the importance of innovation in game development. He criticizes developers who focus solely on fast development and copying successful games, arguing that such practices disrupt fair market competition and erode player trust. “Why do major game companies like Blizzard consistently release iconic games loved worldwide? Because great game designers understand that only novel ideas can lead the online gaming market,” Guo stated in a 2011 interview. “Evony,” with its unique game mechanics, has enjoyed lasting popularity, accumulating over $200 million in downloads. The game's appeal lies in its rich learning and strategy elements, allowing players to summon historical figures from different civilizations, enhancing both entertainment and educational value. Additionally, its robust social system fosters strong connections among players.
The Evony team regularly introduces engaging events to keep players interested, such as the recent “Season 10 Battle of Chalons Event” and “Constantinople Ultimate War Season,” which spans six continents. The top 256 alliances from each continent will compete in the Battle of Chalons, beginning at the end of the Constantinople Ultimate War Season.
Leadership and Global Success
“Evony: The King’s Return” showcases Guo’s expertise and leadership. His forward-looking approach and embrace of new technologies have positioned Top Games Inc. as a leader in innovation. Under Guo’s guidance, Top Games Inc. has released a diverse portfolio of popular titles, including “Plague of Z,” “Mafia Origin,” “Alliance of Glory,” “Kings Legion,” “Infinity Clan,” and “Dream Journey Makeover.” Benjamin Gifford, Vice Development Director of Evony and Vice President of Top Games Inc., spearheads development efforts. The company’s games reach a global audience, available in over 150 countries and 26 languages.