Gecko Out is a hybrid casual block puzzle game by Rollic Games, released in March 2025, and it is already making $900K+ per month in IAP revenue, according to AppMagic.
This title follows Rollic’s blueprint of successful puzzle hits this year, including Color Block Jam, Knit Out, Hole People, and Drop Away.
Let’s break down what makes this gecko-themed puzzler tick.
Deterministic Puzzles
Puzzle levels are time-constrained but consistent across retries, allowing players to improve through trial and error, creating a “just one more try” loop where they fail at the last moment, return sharper, and feel rewarded for their progress. The visuals and sounds are designed to match the theme and make the game more appealing to a wider audience. In particular, the countdown timer sound in last 30 seconds, builds up tension and adrenaline, pushing players to surpass their limits. Additionally, to keep the gameplay fresh and challenging, new mechanics such as connected geckos, crates, colored paths, and stone walls are introduced regularly.
Satisfying Progression
Difficulty is not strictly linear, as new mechanics are introduced gradually through tutorial-style levels to ensure a smooth learning curve, while hard level labeling prepares players for upcoming challenges, encouraging retries and deeper engagement. The game features both in-game and level start boosters to support player progression, and at Level 80, the game unlocks “Adventurer Gifts” rewarding first-try completions with boosters. Additionally, the game teases upcoming features early on to keep players invested and motivated to push forward.
Hybrid Monetization
The game uses a blend of IAPs and ads to monetize its players. Banner ads are always visible, while interstitials are delayed until Level 33 to provide a more premium early-game experience. RV ads, introduced at level 15, allow players to multiply rewards or regain hearts when they run out. Soft currency drives purchases for boosters, lives, and retries, with convenient bulk purchase options available. Level failure screens employ loss aversion tactics by showing players how far they’ve progressed, helping to increase conversions. Additionally, multiple ad removal offers, shop bundles, and seasonal passes provide flexible spending options that appeal to a wide range of player types.
Share your thoughts on this game’s design down below. And don’t forget to follow me for more exciting insights on game.
Original Post: Kavindu Priyanath-Linkedin
