Sand Loop is a sort puzzle game by Voodoo, released in October 2025, and it has already scaled to $60K+ in daily IAP revenue according to AppMagic.
Let’s take a look at the design decisions behind this latest hit in sort puzzle space.
Appealing Theme
The game features pixelated sand artwork that creates a strong sense of visual satisfaction. As the sand falls into buckets, the original patterns are disrupted, triggering an innate urge to “clean up” the remaining unpleasantness by completing the sort. The addition of a looping conveyor-belt mechanic, inspired by sorting shooters, introduces motion and dynamism to an otherwise static, bench-based experience. Together, these changes help the game stand out, making the gameplay feel more alive and engaging.
Deterministic Puzzles
The game’s levels are deterministic puzzles, allowing players to learn and master them over multiple attempts. There is currently no meta-game, and progression is driven entirely by the core puzzle loop. The main menu is only introduced at level 16, after which the game flows continuously from one win to the next unless the player loses or manually exits, minimizing friction and maintaining momentum. Additionally, puzzle difficulty is clearly communicated through hard level labeling, both on level map and within levels, while all the boosters are introduced early to help players progress smoothly.
Hybrid Monetization
The game uses a blend of IAAs and IAPs to monetize its players. Interstitial ads at level ends are delayed until level 20 to ensure an uninterrupted FTUE for players, while RV ads are limited to refilling lives. Beyond that, monetization is driven primarily through IAPs, including an ad-removal offer and an in-game shop featuring multiple bundles. The game also leverages loss aversion techniques to further improve conversions.
Given the competition in the sort-puzzle genre, do you think this design and monetization approach is enough to scale further? Share your thoughts down below.
Original Post: Kavindu Priyanath-LinkedIn
