Reddit marketing for video games works best when you prioritize authentic community value, precise subreddit targeting, and a well-timed mix of sneak peeks, updates, and engaging content. Build trust first, then share progress and invites to play.
Audience research and subreddit mapping
- Identify subreddits that match your game’s genre, platform, and audience demographics.
- Map rules, posting norms, and moderation style for each community.
- Note peak activity times to optimize post timing.
- Create a simple audience persona to tailor messages—pain points, interests, and terms used in discussions.
Subreddit selection and strategy
- Prioritize official subreddits, genre communities, and platform-specific groups.
- Reserve 70–80% of posts for value-driven content (updates, insights, demos).
- Keep 20–30% for promotional content, clearly labeled and moderated by rules.
- Avoid cross-posting the same content across many subreddits in a short window.
Content strategy that performs
- Post a mix of visuals: gameplay clips, screenshots, concept art, and short demos.
- Share dev diaries, design decisions, and bug-squashing stories to build narrative.
- Use polls and questions to spark community involvement.
- Leverage memes and light humor when appropriate, aligned with the subreddit's tone.
- Include clear calls-to-action only where allowed and relevant.
Posting cadence and formats
- Establish a regular rhythm (e.g., weekly update posts, biweekly dev diary).
- Vary formats: text posts, image galleries, short videos, and live streams when suitable.
- Time posts to match peak activity windows for each subreddit.
- Monitor engagement and adjust frequency to avoid fatigue.
AMA, updates, and engagement events
- Plan an AMA around a key milestone (demo release, beta access, or launch).
- Prepare answers to common questions in advance and be transparent about timelines.
- Host Q&A sessions in comments and follow up with recap posts.
- Coordinate with moderators to align with subreddit rules and timing.
Advertising vs. organic reach
- Use Reddit's native ads to reach specific interest targets when aligned with goals.
- Combine organic posts with paid promotion for a test phase and learn what resonates.
- Always land ads on a focused, relevant destination (landing page or signup form).
Community trust, moderation, and ethics
- Respect each community’s rules and leadership. Seek permission when needed.
- Respond to feedback quickly and professionally, even if it's critical.
- Be transparent about your role and avoid disguising promotional content as neutral.
- Avoid manipulating engagement metrics or posting misleading claims.
Tracking, metrics, and optimization
- Monitor upvotes, comments, and sentiment per post.
- Track referral traffic and signups from Reddit links.
- Use A/B testing for headlines, visuals, and formats.
- Regularly audit performance and prune underperforming tactics.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Pitfall: Overposting promotional content. Avoid by prioritizing value-driven posts.
- Pitfall: Ignoring community feedback. Engage respectfully and publicly acknowledge concerns.
- Pitfall: Violating subreddit rules. Read rules, use appropriate flair, and tag posts correctly.
- Pitfall: Inauthentic or spammy behavior. Post as a community member first, developer second.
Frequently Asked Questions
What subreddits are best for marketing a video game?
Target genre, platform, and creator communities with high engagement and relevant topics.
How should I post for best engagement on Reddit?
Follow rules, provide value, use visuals, avoid heavy self promotion, and engage in comments.
Should I run an AMA?
Yes, if you have a clear topic and resources to answer questions during the session.
What content types work well on Reddit for games?
Teasers, behind‑the‑scenes, gameplay clips, demos, patch notes, polls, and dev diaries.
How can I avoid common Reddit marketing pitfalls?
Don't spam, ignore feedback, violate rules, over-hype, or respond poorly; stay professional.
How can I measure success on Reddit?
Watch upvotes, comments, clicks, signups, referrals, and subreddit growth over time.
Should I use Reddit ads?
Reddit ads can help reach targeted audiences when paired with clear goals and landing pages.
How can I maintain authenticity on Reddit?
Be transparent, participate as a member, acknowledge feedback, and avoid fake hype.