Core Insights - The mini-game market in China has seen significant growth, with revenue reaching 23.276 billion yuan in the first half of the year, a year-on-year increase of 40.20% [1] - Despite the market growth, companies are experiencing anxiety due to the emergence of a "Matthew Effect," where leading firms dominate the market by investing heavily in user acquisition [1][4] - The increasing resistance of players to similar mini-games has led companies to seek breakthroughs, particularly through overseas expansion, as they aim to capitalize on the growing market [4][6] Market Dynamics - The mini-game market is characterized by a "surge" in user numbers and market size, with projections estimating the market could reach 61 billion yuan by 2025, a tenfold increase since the inception of mini-games [7] - Companies are racing against time to capture market share, especially in less competitive overseas markets, as evidenced by the increasing number of mini-game projects launched at events like ChinaJoy [7][10] - Successful overseas mini-games, such as "Mushroom Hero," have demonstrated the potential for high revenue, with monthly earnings reaching 50 million USD, prompting more companies to enter the market [8][10] Competitive Landscape - The mini-game industry is facing intense competition, particularly in nearby markets like Southeast Asia, where many companies are vying for dominance [12][14] - As competition intensifies, companies are shifting their focus to more distant markets, such as Europe and the Middle East, which present greater potential but also higher entry barriers [14][16] - The challenges in the European and Middle Eastern markets include differing consumer habits and higher costs for user acquisition, making it essential for companies to adapt their strategies [17] Strategic Recommendations - Companies are advised to be strategic in product development, aligning with market trends and consumer preferences to maximize user engagement [20] - Leveraging short video platforms like TikTok for marketing can enhance user acquisition and engagement, as these platforms resonate well with mini-game audiences [25] - Collaboration with local marketing channels is crucial for successful overseas expansion, as companies need to navigate diverse market dynamics effectively [25]