How to Use QR Codes for Your Video Games

When you’re a video game developer, you know how critical it is to cultivate a loyal fanbase. Unfortunately, doing things like paid ads or collaborations can get expensive quickly and won’t guarantee results. Luckily, there’s a way to have the best of both worlds without needing to spend a dime: creating QR code game options! 

If you need help thinking of QR code game ideas, we’ve created this guide that will give you the full details of how QR codes work, plus a few tips for getting started.

What Kind of QR Codes Should I Use for Video Games?

If you’re ready to generate your first QR code game enhancement but aren’t sure how to use it, here are a few ideas.

Bonus Content

The most popular way to employ QR code game enhancement is by connecting it to the URL where your fans can access bonus content from the game. Video game creators have used these unique QR codes for secret levels, additional content, behind-the-scenes extras, and more.

Email List Sign-Ups

Many creators will use a QR code game strategy that connects the code to a sign-up form for their newsletters, guaranteeing a dedicated audience interested in their new content and product releases.

Links to Your Social Media

If you’ve got a particular social media account that you’re looking to grow, creating a unique QR code that links to the account ensures that your fans will funnel to the platform where you’re focused on building your fanbase. Since social media is critical for marketing and user engagement, many content creators will use social media links for their first QR code game idea.

Social Media

If your game has a dedicated Facebook group, Discord chat, or subreddit, consider using your unique QR code as a way to send users to those groups. That way, they’ll get quick access to your community while developing loyalty and growing your platform.

What Is a QR Code, and How Does It Work?

Quick response (QR) codes are unique codes that smartphones and tablets can scan with their built-in cameras. These codes are used for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to:

  • Sending a consumer to a URL
  • Sending an email to a specified address
  • Showing an image or video

Static QR Codes vs. Dynamic QR Codes

Static 

Static codes direct the client to a permanent URL or action and cannot be changed. Static codes are the most popular for QR code game marketing and are great for new users who want to test how well they work with their customers. 

Dynamic 

Dynamic codes can be edited and re-edited as needed — even after printing.

How to Make QR Codes for Video Games

Making a QR code is easy! Here’s how to do it using our QR code generator:

  1. Select the type of code you’d like to make. Some of the options we provide include:
  2. Enter your content
  3. Customize the code with your brand colors or use a gradient to make your code pop.
  4. Add your logo or another image to help better brand your unique code.
  5. Customize the design with the right weight and style.
  6. Click “Create QR Code,” and you’ll receive a unique, ready-to-use code.
  7. Test your QR code to ensure it works correctly by aiming your smartphone camera at the code.

Should I Use a QR Code for Video Games?

Creating a QR code game strategy can help grow your fanbase, but you should keep a few things in mind. 

  • Your QR code game imagery should be located in a place that’s easily accessible in-game but doesn’t take up too much space.
  • If your game is console or desktop-based, you’ll need to think intentionally about how you can motivate your users to stop playing and get their phones so they can scan your QR code game tag. 

Ready to get started? Use our free QR code generator to create your unique QR code now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the way my QR code works?

If you create a dynamic QR code, you’ll have the ability to update the action scanning your code takes. However, this can be hard to manage when you’re making unique codes for every level or new release, so we recommend instead updating the URL’s content your static code directs users to rather than dealing with maintaining costly dynamic codes.

How easy is it to use a QR code?

Both iOS and Android smartphones have built-in technology in their camera apps that automatically recognize a QR code. All a consumer has to do is open their camera and scan the code; their phone will do the rest.

Are QR codes useful for video games?

Using QR code game strategies for marketing is an effective way to maximize your ability to grow your platform by offering enhanced content or ways for your customers to continue the conversation through email or social media. However, your demographic must be willing to use tech like this, so make sure you have a good idea of how well QR codes are received in your ideal customer base.

Can I use my new QR code in print?

Yes, your new code can be used both digitally and in print. Many video game developers will add the code to the back of their game’s packaging as well as marketing materials like posters, brochures, and even business cards. You can also add your code to your email signatures and have it on the main page of your website too. The more places you use it, the more likely you’ll see results.